Pentagon rules adapt for religious exemptions

Religious exemptions for troops easier to request under new rules
Army Times
Andrew Tighman
Staff Writer
January 22, 2014

The Pentagon on Wednesday announced new rules that make it easier for troops to request religious exemptions from uniform rules, grooming standards and other military policies.

The new rules aim to address a spate of controversies in recent years from religious troops seeking special treatment; for example, an Army Sikh wanted to wear a turban with his uniform and a rabbi wanted to wear a beard.

Until now, the Pentagon had no force-wide rules for how to handle requests for religious accommodation, making it unclear who should ultimately 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 “if it is determined that the needs of mission accomplishment outweigh the needs of the Service member,” according to the new policy.

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

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

■ Interfere with the proper use of safety or protective gear

■ Jeopardize the public health or safety of the unit
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