What is the purpose of the Selective Service?

The purpose of the Selective Service is to prepare for a draft in times of war. This system is a way for the federal government to ensure that there is a ready pool of potential military personnel if the need arises for conscription. The U.S. Selective Service System requires all eligible males to register within a specific time frame, usually upon turning 18. This registration allows the government to quickly mobilize a population for military service during emergencies when voluntary enlistment may not meet the defense needs of the country.

In contrast, the other options refer to different governmental functions: collecting taxes is a fiscal responsibility handled by the IRS, providing jobs is more related to workforce development and employment agencies, and regulating immigration pertains to the laws and policies that control who can enter the country. Each of these functions serves a distinct purpose, separate from the focus of the Selective Service.