Charleston Leader

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) have introduced the Preserving JROTC Programs Act, aimed at reducing the statutory enrollment requirement for JROTC programs from 100 to 50 students to prevent their closure.

With the U.S. military experiencing a historic recruiting crisis, JROTC programs are increasingly vital in promoting values of service and civic participation among young people. Data from the U.S. Army for Fiscal Years 2019-2021 indicates that 44% of Regular Army enlistments came from schools with a Department of Defense JROTC program, with 21% originating from schools with an Army JROTC program. The U.S. Air Force reports that approximately 22% of high school graduates with Air Force JROTC experience opt for active-duty Air Force service.

“JROTC programs play a critical role in instilling values of citizenship and responsibility, and in many cases, inspiring young people to serve our country,” Senator Capito stated. “I was alarmed to hear that a JROTC program in West Virginia was slated for closure this year, especially considering our state’s storied history of patriotism and service to our country. Thankfully, after I pressed the Air Force, the school was given one more year of eligibility. I’m proud to introduce this legislation, which will prevent the closure of well-attended JROTC programs when our young people and our country need them the most.”

“In New Hampshire and across the country, JROTC programs promote civic engagement, community service and leadership skills for young people and can help strengthen participation in our military – helping ensure America remains ready and resilient,” Senator Shaheen remarked. “At a time when we’re facing military recruitment challenges, we should make it easier for schools to invest in these programs, which is why I’m proud to work with Senator Capito to introduce this bipartisan bill that would help reduce barriers and strengthen JROTC programs across the country.”

Currently, Section 2031 of Title 10 mandates that a JROTC program must enroll at least 10% of a school's total student population or 100 students, whichever is less. This requirement has led to several JROTC programs being placed on probation or closed nationwide.

In November 2023, the Air Force announced plans to deactivate the JROTC program at Cabell Midland High School in West Virginia due to not meeting enrollment requirements. Following interventions by Senator Capito and Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-W.Va.), the program received a one-year extension.

New Hampshire hosts five Air Force JROTC programs; two are currently on probation while another two risk probation due to current enrollment standards. Nationally, over 270 Air Force JROTC programs do not meet these requirements.