Military Times reports that “Defense Secretary Ash Carter has launched a sweeping review of the military’s recruiting standards, saying current rules for screening new entrants may be ‘overly restrictive’ and preventing America’s most talented young people from joining the ranks.” 

“Among the benchmarks that will get new scrutiny: fitness standards, marijuana use, tattoo regulations and the military’s longtime reluctance to allow single parents to start military careers.” 

“Carter’s announcement Tuesday marked the latest round of his ‘Force of the Future’ personnel reforms, which are driven by his concerns that the military today is ill-equipped to recruit and retain the top talent needed for future missions.”