Hegseth Extends Vaccine Refusal Reinstatement Deadline to 2027

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced on March 20, 2026, that the Department of War is extending its policy allowing former service members, who were separated for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine, to return to active duty. The extension pushes the deadline to April 1, 2027, and reduces the required active service commitment from four years to two years for those who rejoin.

In a video statement, Hegseth described the move as a continuation of efforts to address separations stemming from the 2021 vaccine mandate. "While I am proud of our efforts over the past year, our obligations to make things right are not yet complete," he said. "I am therefore extending the application of the department's reinstatement and return to service guidance established last April." He added that the reduced obligation reflects confidence in the immediate contributions of returning members and aligns with the needs of both individuals and the military branches.

Hegseth directed the secretaries of the Army, Navy, and Air Force to recontact former service members who have not yet rejoined, within 60 days, to inform them of the updated policy. The change applies retroactively to those already reinstated...