California · Military and Veterans Code - MVC

MVC §263: When an enlisted person of the National Guard or the unorganized militia called into active service is absent without leave and there is reason to believe that the enlisted person does not intend to r

What this law says, in plain English

Unauthorized absence from active duty service by a National Guard or militia member, where the person apparently does not intend to return, constitutes a chargeable offense.

Read the full statutory text
When an enlisted person of the National Guard or the unorganized militia called into active service is absent without leave and there is reason to believe that the enlisted person does not intend to return, or quits their organization or place of duty with the intent to avoid hazardous duty or to shirk important service, that person is a deserter.

Verify at the official source: California legislative text

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