U.S. Air Force Chaplaincy

Religious exemptions for troops easier to request under newrulesBy Andrew Tilghman Staff writerJan. 22, 2014 - 07:14PM | airforcetimes.com

The Pentagon on Wednesday announcednew rules that make it easier for troops torequest religious exemptions from uniformrules, grooming standards and othermilitary policies.

The new rules aim to address a spate ofcontroversies in recent years from religioustroops seeking special treatment; forexample, an Army Sikh wanted to wear aturban with his uniform and a rabbi wantedto wear a beard.

Until now, the Pentagon had no force-widerules for how to handle requests for religious accommodation, making it unclear who shouldultimately make those decisions and what force-wide standards to impose.

From now on, troops’ requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis and be denied only “ifit is determined that the needs of mission accomplishment outweigh the needs of the Servicemember,” according to the new policy.

“Each request must be considered based on its unique facts; the nature of the requestedreligious accommodation; the effect of approval or denial on the Service member’s exercise ofreligion; and the effect of approval or denial on mission accomplishment, including unit cohesion,”the policy states.

Requests that run counter to current service policy will require approval from the service’s three-star personnel chief. Requests that do not violate any particular policy will be handled by unitcommanders.

Troops will have to reapply for exemptions every time they deploy or change jobs.

The new policy cites the example of a Jewish service member who may want to wear a yarmulkewhenever a military cap is not permitted.

Some military commanders have expressed concern that exemptions from uniform or groomingstandards will erode unit cohesion and morale. Those who look different might be treateddifferently by their peers, or troops may feel that the religious troops are getting specialconsideration.

The policy aims to address that by noting that “it is particularly important to consider the effect onunit cohesion.”

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Critics also say religious apparel might create tactical problems for using military equipment. Forexample, a large turban might not allow a helmet or gas mask to function properly.

The Pentagon’s new policy was driven in part by pressure from Congress, advocacy groups andat least one lawsuit from a service member seeking an exemption.

Troops should expect an official response to a request within 30 days when stationed at homeand 60 days when overseas, according to the policy.

In addition to grooming and uniform standards, troops can request special accommodation for:

■ Worship practices or special observances

■ Rations that comply with religious dietary restrictions

■ Waivers for some medical requirements

Requests will be denied if they:

■ Interfere with the safe operation of military weapons or equipment

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