Letters

Dear Chairman Tester, Vice Chairman Shelby, Chairwoman McCollum, and Ranking Member Calvert:

I am writing to urge support for robust funding towards Line 18, In-Service Equipment for High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) modifications that is consistent with the authorized amount in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 National Defense Authorization Act passed in the House of Representatives. Robust funding ensures the implementation and continuation of the Antilock Brake System/Electronic Stability Control (ABS/ESC) program and the unique capabilities that Red River Army Depot (RRAD) in Texarkana, Texas, provides the Army in accomplishing the program’s objectives for preventing HMMWV rollovers. It is urgent that robust funding is dedicated towards the retrofitting of these rollover kits for the enduring fleet.

Just this week a second HMMWV rollover occurred at Fort Bragg killing another young soldier and injuring four others. This is unacceptable when technology exists that is mandated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to be included on all commercial vehicles to prevent rollovers. Furthermore, the Army itself mandated in 2018 that all new HMMWVs must include this technology.

There are nearly 50,000 vehicles in the enduring fleet that require this kit. Our soldiers’ safety is and always should be our highest priority. Most importantly, these rollover retrofits save lives.   Appropriations funding to match the FY-22 House NDAA authorization for Line 18 will ensure that these ABS/ESC rollover kits will be completed in a timely manner at RRAD. Thank you for your consideration.  

For Texas and Liberty,
Pat Fallon, Member
House of Representatives
TX-04

CC: The Honorable Richard M. Burr
        217 Russell Senate Office Building
        Washington, D.C. 20510

        The Honorable Thom Tillis
        113 Dirksen Senate Office Building
        Washington, D.C. 20510

        The Honorable Richard Hudson
        2112 Rayburn House Office Building
        Washington, D.C. 20515