The Department of Defense reduced its recognized religious faiths list from 211 to 31 codes in a May 20, 2026 memorandum signed by Under Secretary Anthony Tata. This marks the first major revision since 2017 and eliminates approximately 180 religious designations previously available for military personnel records. The streamlined system aims to improve chaplain support delivery by focusing on widely-used religious categories.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed the changes to address what he called an unwieldy system that had grown to over 200 codes, with 82% of religious service members using only six classifications. The new list retains major world religions including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism, while removing minority faiths such as Wiccans, Pagans, Atheists, and various neo-pagan traditions. Service members can still select unofficial affiliations for dog tag purposes.

Former military chaplains and veterans criticize the move as unconstitutional, arguing it violates the First Amendment's guarantee of free exercise for all religions. One anonymous former Army chaplain called the policy a 'tragedy and travesty' that undermines the chaplaincy's core mission. Critics see this as part of Hegseth's broader push toward Christian-focused military culture, including Pentagon prayer services and religious insignia changes.

The reduction raises practical concerns about religious accommodation for minority service members, potentially limiting chaplain access for those whose faiths don't appear on the official roster. This could force personnel to seek support off-base, creating gaps in religious care during deployments or remote assignments.