Whats up with the active Army adding weeks onto a soldiers initial contract? I tried to reup today and wasnt able to because of contract was for three years and eight weeks.
This had to have been something they slipped past me because Im prior service and took the time to read everything. Actually, what does it gain the army besides an extra eight weeks and are they doing this to everyone?

Were you trying to reclass?

The Variable Enlistment Length Program was implemented to improve Force Stabilization, especially for Life Cycle manned units. The variable was put in place to ensure that Soldier's who cam in for 3, 4, 5, etc years would be able to serve in the 1st unit for the full length of their term as opposed to going thru BT and AIT for 4 months or more and then having only a portion of their enlistment left once they arrive at the new unit.
I find it hard to believe that they "slipped it past you". The term length is clearly noted on your DD Form 4 and you are required to initial at the botttom of that form; I suggest you take a look at your contract. When the program first launched, its intent was directed primarily at Combat Arms MOS's; I'm not sure who all gets the variable at this point.

Very good and thorough answer, CCMSG!