(Updated Tuesday 10:15 AM) The Knesset plenum is to vote today on the second and third, (and final), readings of the Tal Committee Bill, to legalize the granting of deferments to Yeshiva Students from military service. Analysts expect that the bill will pass with the support of the Likud, and Haredi parties. Prime Minister Ariel Sharon has also voiced his support for the bill.
Under the plan, all Yeshiva students would be allowed to study Torah until the age of 22, at which time they would have the opportunity to spend a year working or undergoing vocational training. After that year those wishing to return to Yeshiva may do so and would be exempt from military service. Those choosing to enter the workforce would have to do a year of national service or an abbreviated military stint.
Under the plan, all Yeshiva students would be allowed to study Torah until the age of 22, at which time they would have the opportunity to spend a year working or undergoing vocational training. After that year those wishing to return to Yeshiva may do so and would be exempt from military service. Those choosing to enter the workforce would have to do a year of national service or an abbreviated military stint.