The Ministerial Committee on Legislation is scheduled to discuss on Sunday a bill that would obligate anyone who is exempt from IDF service to join the national or civil service programs.
The proposal, which was submitted by Yisrael Beiteinu and Knesset Member Uri Ariel (National Union ),applies only to men. The bill does pertain to men who were exempted from army service as part of the "torato emunato" (Torah is his profession) arrangement, which exempts men from IDF service as long as they study Torah on a full-time basis.
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According to the bill, these men would have to serve in the national or civil service programs for a period of two years. The bill does not include men who were found to be unfit for army service.
"This proposal aims to create equality in carrying the load, because there cannot be a situation whereby some 18-year-old men and woman serve and protect the country, while others do not serve or contribute," the explanation to the bill states.
MKs from the Yisrael Beitenu party said in a statement, "Those who have been legally exempt by the State should not be exempt from contributing in other ways, such as national or civil service at public institutions that are in need of workers.
"This proposal reflects the IDF chief of staff's suggestion to obligate anyone who does not enlist to join the civil service program," they added.
- Moran Azulay contributed to the report