WARRIOR PROTECTION AND READINESS COALITION APPLAUDS FINAL PASSAGE OF THE HOMELAND PROCUREMENT REFORM (HOPR) ACT

WARRIOR PROTECTION AND READINESS COALITION APPLAUDS FINAL PASSAGE OF THE HOMELAND PROCUREMENT REFORM (HOPR) ACT

New Law Will Help Ensure Domestically Manufactured Uniforms and Equipment are provided to
Department of Homeland Security Operational Personnel

MARBLEHEAD, MA (January 9, 2023) – The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) commends the inclusion of the “Homeland Procurement Reform Act” in the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, recently signed into law by President Joseph Biden. The HOPR Act is the culmination of several years of WPRC advocacy on behalf of the domestic industrial base and American companies that provide 100% made-in- America uniforms, footwear and protective equipment to the Federal government.

This critical, bi-partisan legislation ensures that the operational units within the Department of Homeland
Security (DHS) including Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), U.S. Secret Service, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) procure uniforms and equipment manufactured in the United States. Currently, many DHS agencies purchase uniforms and equipment manufactured in foreign countries that lack supply chain dependability and secure protocols for handling sensitive uniform items. The HOPR Act sets a new precedent to ensure that uniforms, footwear, body armor and equipment for DHS frontline personnel are built in the United States, supporting the industrial base and ensuring supply chain security.

On behalf of their 60+ member companies, the WPRC extends appreciation to primary sponsors Senator
Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD), Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA), and Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) as well as co-sponsors Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS), Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH), and Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA). HOPR sponsors ensured that this critical legislation was maintained in the FY23 National Defense Authorization Act, and that DHS begins to move towards domestic sources of supply to meet current and future homeland security challenges.

The new law establishes specific criteria that increases the ability of DHS to obtain high-quality, American-made personal protective equipment (PPE) and organizational clothing and individual equipment (OCIE). The HOPR Act builds upon procurement laws such as the Berry Amendment and the Kissell Amendment by expanding opportunities for American manufacturers that meet specific, domestic manufacturing criteria.

WPRC Executive Director David Costello said, “Department of Homeland Security personnel as well as the American public owe a debt of gratitude to the members of Congress who have championed this important legislation. Thanks to their leadership, uniforms, armor, footwear and protective equipment needed by DHS personnel will be supplied by high-quality American sources, improving the quality and performance of this category of products while supporting American jobs. The WPRC looks forward to working with the DHS and the White House to encourage the rapid implementation of this domestic procurement policy.”

About WPRC

WPRC is the unified voice of advocacy for the individual and unit level equipment needs of the warfighter and peacekeeper. The leading tactical equipment, apparel, footwear, materials, and technology companies of the WPRC are committed to ensuring that American service members and Homeland Security personnel are provided with superior products built by a robust industrial base, now and in the future. For a complete listing of WPRC member companies, please visit ***.warriorprotection.net.

WARRIOR PROTECTION AND READINESS COALITION HOSTS SUCCESSFUL 2022 LEGISLATIVE SUMMIT Presents Sentinel Award to U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MIJ and U.S. Representative Michael Waltz (R-FL-6th)

MARBLEHEAD, MA (April 12th, 2022) The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) announced that Senator Gary Peters (MI), and Congressman Michael Waltz (FL-06), have been awarded the 2022 WPRC Sentinel Award for their legislative leadership on behalf of the domestic defense industrial base that supports U.S. servicemembers and homeland security personnel. The Sentinel Award is presented annually to Members of Congress who have demonstrated enduring leadership to ensure high quality, American-made personal protective gear, uniforms, ballistic armor, footwear and equipment are available to the Federal government at the best value to the taxpayer.

“The past two years have clearly demonstrated the critical importance of supporting American manufacturing and completely domestic supply chains for products essential to the national security of the United States,” said Justin Mayer, Chairman of the WPRC. “Our annual Legislative Summit allows our member companies to come together to advocate for thoughtful policies that support our nation’s ability to manufacturer PPE, camouflage and dress uniforms, footwear, ballistic armor, helmets and equipage. We are delighted to recognize Senator Peters and Congressman Waltz with our 2022 Sentinel Award and the WPRC will continue to press forward to ensure that the United States maintains the domestic capability to properly equip those who serve our country.”

The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition’s Sentinel Award is the association’s highest honor, presented annually to policymakers who have demonstrated extraordinary support for the American industry that manufactures advanced combat clothing, equipment and PPE for the Armed Services and Department of Homeland Security. Sentinel Award recipients are recognized as the leading advocates for American warfighters and peacekeepers, as it remains critically important to provide those who serve our country with domestically manufactured products that provide our Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen, Marines, Guardians and Homeland Security personnel with an insurmountable conflict and training advantage.

WPRC member companies strive every day to provide innovative, advanced solutions to ensure that our armed forces are prepared for any encounter, anywhere in the world. Senator Gary Peters is the Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, which oversees the Department of Homeland Security and is the Senate’s top oversight committee. He also serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. Congressman Michael “Mike” Waltz represents the 6th District of Florida and serves as the Ranking Member on the House Armed Services Committee’s Subcommittee on Readiness.

The Sentinel Award presentation took place during the 2022 WPRC Legislative Summit, conducted on Capitol Hill in the Rayburn House Office Building. Over 80 association members met for the first time in person since the COVID-19 pandemic began, to advocate for best-in-class, American-made equipment, textiles and uniforms for U.S. service members, frontline medical responders, and the operational agencies within the Department of Homeland Security.

The Legislative Summit included a speaking program, allowing WPRC members to hear remarks from U.S. Marine Corps Brigadier General Arthur J. Pasagian, Commander Marine Corps Systems Command; U.S. Army Major General Anthony (Tony) Potts Program Executive Officer, Program Executive Office Soldier; Brigadier General Eric Shirley, U.S. Army Commander, Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support and Ms. Celeste Drake, Made in America Director, Office of Management and Budget, Executive Office of the President. This was an opportunity for the WPRC to hear directly from Department of Defense (DoD) and Executive Leadership regarding the Administration’s domestic defense industrial base priorities.

WARRIOR PROTECTION AND READINESS COALITION APPLAUDS INCLUSION OF DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT IN INFRASTRUCTURE BILL

Industry Supported Provisions Will Strengthen and Promote American Industrial Base

MARBLEHEAD, MA (November 15, 2021) – The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition
(WPRC) commends the United States Congress for including several provisions to support and strengthen the domestic industrial base within the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. By including provisions that prioritize the procurement of American-made personal protective equipment (PPE) and critical safety items, Congress has acknowledged the urgent need to manufacturing quality, American made goods to respond to current and future crises. These provisions take an important step toward ending our reliance on low quality foreign-made products.
“Title IX – Build America, Buy America” of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act includes the WPRC supported Make PPE in America Act, originally co-sponsored by Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI), Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH), Rep. Ted Budd (R-NC), Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH), and Rep. Marriannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA). This provision requires that the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Defense, Department of Education, and Department of Veterans Affairs issue two-year contracts
to incentivize investment in domestic PPE production.

The WPRC worked diligently with industry partners and original sponsors to identify and develop an inclusive list of critical safety items that were unavailable domestically at the outset of the Coronavirus pandemic. This includes surgical masks, respirator masks and powered air purifying respirators and required filters, face shields and protective eyewear, gloves, disposable and reusable surgical and isolation gowns, and head and foot coverings, or other gear or clothing used to protect an individual from the transmission of disease. Items assembled outside the US must still contain only materials and components that are grown, reprocessed, reused, or produced in the US.
WPRC Executive Director David Costello said, “Inclusion of this provision in the infrastructure package is a significant victory for the American industrial base and a strong complement to other legislative proposals designed to ensure domestic companies have the resources available to produce critical safety items in the U.S. Requiring two-year procurement contracts and extending Berry Amendment requirements to the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Health and Human Services, and Department of Veterans Affairs will have a significant positive impact on Americans companies to plan for future challenges and improves the national security of the United States.”

Also, within Title IX is a WPRC-supported provision that requires the General Services Administration (GSA) to make public any waivers issued for non-Buy American compliant contract awards. Increasing transparency and public awareness of non-domestic federal procurements will help companies identify gaps within domestic production and meet demand with higher quality American-made products. The public disclosure of items that are not available in the United States is a model for whole of government procurement policy. WPRC continues to support provisions that increase procurement transparency and expand the range of opportunities for the domestic industrial base to decrease our reliance on foreign-made gear and equipment.
About the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition
The WPRC is the unified voice of advocacy for the individual and unit level equipment needs of the warfighter and peacekeeper. The leading tactical equipment, apparel, textiles, materials, and technology companies of the WPRC are committed to ensuring that American service members, Homeland Security personnel, and frontline healthcare workers are provided with superior products built by a robust industrial base, now and in the future. For a complete listing of WPRC member companies, please visit www.warriorprotection.net.

Correa and Mast Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Small Businesses, Provide DHS Frontline Workforce with American Made Uniforms and PPE

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA), Chairman of the HomelandSecuritySubcommittee onOversight, Management, & Accountability,and Rep.BrianMast(R-FL),introduced legislationto support U.S. small businesses by increasing the ability of the DepartmentofHomelandSecurity(DHS)to purchase high-quality, American-made uniforms and personal protective equipment for frontline personnel.

The HomelandProcurementReformAct(HOPRAct)would:

• Require that at least one-third of funds meant for the purchasing of DHS uniforms and protective equipment go to small businesses in the U.S.
• Encourage the procurement of higher quality uniforms and equipment at fair prices.
• Reform the way DHS procures uniform and protective equipment to support the needs of its mission-critical agencies.
• Strengthen supply chain security for any item bearing the official DHS insignia manufactured outside the U.S.
• Direct a study of the adequacy of employee uniform allowances.

“American small businesses employ nearly fifty percent of the private sector workforce but only receive less than twenty-six percent of Federal government contracts. The HOPR Act is necessary to close this gap, while ensuring that DHS has high-quality uniforms and protective equipment for frontline personnel,” said

Chairman Correa. “This legislation is also a step in the right direction to reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign-made personal protective equipment – a persistent problem that came to light during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is common-sense, bipartisan legislation and I hope we can get it passed soon. I thank Congressman Mast for working with me on it.”

“As our economy continues to recover in the aftermath of COVID-19, I am continuing to fight in Congress to make sure our small businesses have every resource they need to compete and get stronger every day,” Rep.Mastsaid.“This bill would do just that by increasing the ability of DHS to purchase high-quality, American-made uniforms and PPE for frontline workers from America’s small businesses.”

The HOPR Act is the companion to S. 1009, as introduced by Senators Shaheen (D- NH), Hassan (D-NH), Moran (R-KS), and Rounds (R-SD). This legislation is endorsed by the Warrior Protection & Readiness Coalition.

Executive Director of the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition, David Costello added, “OurassociationofU.S.manufacturersispleasedtosupportthis bipartisan effort to encourage the Department of Homeland Security toprocure American-madepersonalprotectiveequipment,uniformsandfootwear.ProvidingHomelandSecuritywiththehighestquality,domesticallymanufacturedproductsiscriticalforensuringtheirsafetyandstrengthensthenationalsecurityoftheUnitedStates.Thisthoughtfullegislationwillresultinthe creation of manufacturing jobs throughout the country and we lookforwardtoworkingwith CongresstoensurethefinalpassageoftheHOPRActintolaw.”

The HOPR Act is co-sponsored by Chairman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) and Reps. Jim McGovern (D-MA) and Chris Pappas (D-NH).

WARRIOR PROTECTION AND READINESS COALITION PRESENTS 2021 SENTINEL AWARD TO

U.S SENATOR MIKE ROUNDS (R-SD) AND U.S. REPRESENTATIVE JIM LANGEVIN (D-RI, 2^nd District) 

Leading Industry Association Recognizes Robust Support of Essential American Manufacturing 

MARBLEHEAD, MA (March 23^rd, 2021) The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) announced that Senator Mike Rounds (SD), and Congressman James Langevin (RI-02), have been awarded the 2021 WPRC Sentinel Award for their legislative leadership on behalf of the domestic defense industrial base that supports U.S. servicemembers and homeland security personnel. The Sentinel Award is presented annually to Members of Congress who have exhibited unique leadership to ensure high quality, American-made personal protective gear, uniforms, footwear and equipment are available to the Federal government at the best value to the taxpayer.

WPRC Chairman Justin Mayer said,  “Senator Rounds and Congressman Langevin continue to lead vital efforts to support the domestic industrial base, enabling the rapid production of American-made military and medical PPE during a period of sustained market disruptions.  We are grateful for their leadership on behalf of those who serve in the Armed Services, the Department of Homeland Security, and frontline medical personnel. Sen. Rounds and Rep. Langevin are working every day to renew and strengthen American production of critical life-saving equipment and PPE at the best value to the Federal government.”

The Sentinel Award presentation took place during the 2021 WPRC Legislative Summit, conducted virtually due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic. WPRC members participated in virtual meetings with key Members of Congress and staff members to advocate for best-in-class, American-made equipment, textiles and uniforms for U.S. service members, frontline medical responders, and the operational agencies within the Department of Homeland Security. 

WPRC’s top legislative priority, the Homeland Security Procurement Reform (HOPR) Act, was passed unanimously in the House in the 116^th Congress and will be re-introduced in the 117^th to help ensure that American tax dollars are spent on high-quality, American-made uniforms, footwear and personal protective equipment (PPE). The WPRC continues to lead legislative advocacy to strengthen the domestic industrial base for manufacturers of PPE, body armor, ballistic helmets, eye protection, hearing protection, footwear, load carriage and the critical input materials required to maintain a complete, healthy domestic supply chain. 

About the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition and the Sentinel Award:

The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) Sentinel Award is the association’s highest honor, presented annually to policymakers who have demonstrated extraordinary support for the American industry that manufactures advanced combat clothing and equipment for the Armed Services and Department of Homeland Security.

WPRC member companies strive every day to provide innovative, advanced solutions to ensure that our armed forces are prepared for any encounter, anywhere in the world. Senator Michael “Mike” Rounds represents the State of South Dakota. He serves on the Committee on Armed Services; Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs; Veterans’ Affairs; and Environment and Public Works. Congressman James Langevin represents the 2^nd District of Rhode Island and serves as a senior member of the Committee on Armed Services. 

U.S. Representative Jim Langevin accepted the 2021 Sentinel Award presented virtually by WPRC Executive Director David Costello, Chairman Justin Mayer, and the membership of the WPRC.

WPRC ANNOUNCES NEW OFFICERS BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEMBERS, AND FORMATION OF MEDICAL PPE SPECIAL SUBCOMMITTEE

Leading Personal Protective Equipment Industry Association Positioned for Continued Success 

MARBLEHEAD, MA (January 11, 2021) – The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) is pleased to announce three new additions to its Board of Directors, the election of a new Chairman of the Board and significant legislative accomplishments in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act and Defense Appropriations bill.  

The newly elected Directors of the WPRC are Mr. David Milgrom, the CEO of Bernard Cap Company and Mr. Scott Williams, Vice-President at the Wing Group. Ms. Amy Coyne, CEO of Revision Military has rejoined the Board.  At the WPRC’s annual Board Meeting held in December, Mr. Justin Mayer of DuPont was elected to serve as the next WPRC Chairman of the Board, Mr. Kevin Hickey of ADS, Inc. was elected as Treasurer, and Ms. Amy Coyne will serve as Secretary. Additional Board members include Mr. Markin Dornan, Managing Director-Military at NSA and Mr. Frank Montie, the CEO of Brookwood Companies. 

WPRC Executive Director David Costello said, “This year has presented a number of unprecedented challenges for our member companies that comprise the domestic Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Organizational Clothing/Individual Equipment (OCIE) industrial base. As demand for PPE items has rapidly increased, WPRC member companies have responded by domestically manufacturing items immediately needed by frontline workers and government agencies. From surgical masks and N95 respirators to protective gowns, eye protection and patient isolation materials, our members have responded to the national need for equipment without hesitation. Our members are subject matter experts in the challenges and opportunities inherent in Made in the USA manufacturing processes.  They have leveraged this knowledge to lead the effort to provide the high demand protective items that are needed throughout the country.”

As the WPRC continues to expand our membership, innovative companies have recently joined the association. IDEAL Fastener Corp., Lydall Performance Materials, TSSi, Inc., Burlington Fabrics, and Wing Group have recently joined with over 50 other companies to add their voice to the advocacy efforts of the WPRC.   The additional impact of these industry leaders is critical to advancing the WPRC mission to support the evolving needs of the Armed Services, Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).  

Growth in WPRC membership has been driven by a series of legislative and policy accomplishments. WPRC’s top legislative priority, funding for the Soldier Enhancement Program (SEP), was included at $9 million, $4 million over the total authorized by the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This is a significant victory that is a direct result of WPRC advocacy and engagement – most notably through our annual Legislative Summit in March 2020. This builds on report language included in the House and Senate versions of the NDAA as well as the omnibus report and affirms Congressional commitment to the program. With this language and pending funding through appropriations, the WPRC has restored SEP and secured funding authorization for PEO-Soldier to restart the program.

Over the past two years, WPRC has led within a multi-association/stakeholder effort to return the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (SAT) to $150,000 (from $250,000) for Berry Amendment compliant procurements. This year the Senate NDAA included language to modify the Berry Amendment to designate a permanent threshold of $150,000, decoupling Berry procurements from all other Department of Defense procurements. Especially notable is language that prevents dividing larger contracts into several purchases or contracts for lesser amounts. This is a direct result of WPRC advocacy. This is a significant change and a very important victory for WPRC members and Berry Amendment support/advocacy moving forward, as Congress has now acknowledged the importance of a strong domestic industrial base.

Given WPRC member company expertise, the WPRC has established a PPE Select Subcommittee to be chaired by past WPRC Board Member Bruce LaFlam of Milliken Military and Performance Fabrics. The Subcommittee will serve as a forum for the interaction of industry participants and stakeholders such as government and military representatives, academia, and non-governmental organizations to facilitate the exchange of information and points of view and develop best practices to promote the development of the medical and military domestic industrial base. 

The WPRC PPE Select Subcommittee will include additional PPE experts from among the WPRC membership. The Select Subcommittee will support the development of position statements, white papers and host meetings and webinars over the coming year to identify the top priorities for the PPE industry.   The Subcommittee will recommend where improvements are needed across government and industry to ensure a viable, sustainable, and robust domestic PPE industrial base. These findings will be incorporated into WPRC annual priority issues and policy goals. The Subcommittee will begin work in early 2021 and report directly to the WPRC Board of Directors.  

About the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition 

The WPRC is the unified voice of advocacy for the individual and unit level equipment needs of the warfighter and peacekeeper. The leading tactical equipment, apparel, materials, and technology companies of the WPRC are committed to ensuring that American service members, Homeland Security personnel, and frontline healthcare workers are provided with superior products built by a robust industrial base, now and in the future. For a complete listing of WPRC member companies, please visit www.warriorprotection.net.

Shaheen Welcomes Bipartisan Support for Her Bill to Bolster Domestic Supply Chain for PPE Shaheen Press

May 19, 2020
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-welcomes-bipartisan-support-for-her-bill-to-bolster-domestic-supply-chain-for-ppe

**Shaheen’s legislation was introduced last year to make sure PPE is available during national emergencies**

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) announced today that U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) have joined her legislation – the Homeland Procurement Reform Act – which would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to increase the amount of personal protective equipment (PPE) it procures from American companies. Shaheen introduced the legislation last year to ensure that the domestic supply chain for PPE is capable of supplying the critical items that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other federal agencies need during a national emergency in which acquisition of these materials from abroad is interrupted. Shaheen’s legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Murphy (D-CT), Jones (D-AL) and Hassan (D-NH).

“The shortage in personal protective equipment during this pandemic underscores the urgent need to shore up our domestic supply chain in case of national emergencies,” said Senator Shaheen. “The COVID-19 outbreak has exposed severe inadequacies in our PPE supply chain which need to be addressed immediately. My legislation would create jobs in the United States and help our nation plan ahead for emergencies rather than trying to play catchup once disaster strikes. I appreciate the bipartisan support from Senators Rounds and Moran on this legislation, and hope together with Senators Murphy, Hassan and Jones, we can garner additional bipartisan backing to get this bill through Congress.”

“DHS agents rely heavily on their equipment to carry out their duties, and reliance on foreign-made products could place them in harm’s way or jeopardize the mission,” said Senator Moran. “This legislation would allow DHS access to the best, innovative personal protective gear and equipment that the American supply chain has to offer. Congress must continue to prioritize legislation that reduces our country’s reliance on foreign supply chains for critical national security components.”

“It’s totally unacceptable that frontline and essential workers have been forced to go without the PPE they need to stay safe. Let’s make sure that, going forward, our country can produce the PPE needed to confront a national emergency – and that it’s made right here at home. I’m glad our legislation finally has bipartisan support so we can put more pressure on the federal government to buy American and fulfill PPE needs during this current crisis. It’s a no-brainer that should create more jobs and put more Americans to work during these unprecedented times,” said Senator Murphy.

“This pandemic has been a wake-up call that we need to significantly ramp up investment in our domestic health care supply chain and reduce our dependence on foreign companies,” said Senator Jones. “Our legislation will help ensure that our men and women on the front lines have the supplies necessary to protect themselves and others. I’m glad this legislation is earning bipartisan support and I believe it is a critical step to better protect and prepare our nation for future crises.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic has made it clearer than ever that the United States needs to be prepared to mass produce personal protective equipment here at home,” said Senator Hassan. “By requiring the Department of Homeland Security to ramp up domestic production of personal protective equipment, this bipartisan bill strengthens both our economy and public health – and helps to ensure that the U.S. is better prepared for future crises.”

Senator Shaheen’s legislation would increase the items that DHS is required to procure domestically by placing certain restrictions on DHS procurement. These restrictions would narrow the field that DHS is able to procure from and drive DHS procurement towards predominately U.S. companies that are able to meet the standards outlined in the bill. Bolstering the domestic supply chain would help ensure American made products are prioritized and would also help alleviate shortages that could come during times of national emergencies, such as the COVID-19 outbreak, when obtaining necessary materials like PPE from abroad are interrupted by a crisis.

Text of the legislation is available here.

Earlier today, Senator Shaheen announced that she’s called on the Trump administration to immediately take action to increase the long-term domestic supply chain for PPE in the United States. Shaheen’s letter comes as industry partners across the nation and in New Hampshire, including DEKA Research and Development Corporation (DEKA), are working to ramp up production of PPE, but face challenges that necessitate federal resources and direction to rectify.

Senator Shaheen has led efforts to secure urgently needed personal protective equipment for New Hampshire. Last month, Senators Shaheen and Hassan called on the administration to fully utilize the Defense Production Act (DPA) to ensure the VA has the supplies and equipment needed to protect veterans from COVID-19. With the state’s congressional delegation, the Senators have sent multipleletters to the Trump administration requesting rapid assistance to ensure New Hampshire health care providers have the supplies needed to address coronavirus cases the state is experiencing. In addition, Shaheen and Hassan sent a letter pressing the administration for information on the distribution of critical medical supplies, including personal protective equipment. The Senators repeatedly called for the President to invoke the Defense Production Act and introduced legislation to expedite the procurement of medical equipment, under the DPA. As a result of these calls and those from others, the President relented. In April, Shaheen and Hassanannounced legislation with Senate Democrats that lays out a framework for an effective COVID-19 response by federalizing and adding critical oversight and transparency to the supply chain for essential medical supplies and equipment.

U.S. Senator Chris Murphy and Congressman Brian Mast Presented With 2020 WPRC Sentinel Award

Recognition of their Enduring Championship of American Manufacturing that Supports the Servicemember

WASHINGTON – The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) is pleased to announce that Senator Chris Murphy (CT) and Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) have been awarded the 2020 WPRC Sentinel Award for their legislative leadership on behalf of the domestic defense industrial base that supports U.S. servicemembers and homeland security personnel. The Sentinel Award is presented annually to members of Congress for their efforts to ensure high quality, American-made personal protective gear, uniforms, footwear and equipment are available to the Federal government at the best value to the taxpayer.

WPRC Chairman Frank Montie said, “Senator Murphy and Congressman Mast have been unwavering advocates on behalf of those who serve in the Armed Services and the Department of Homeland Security. Their leadership ensures that the domestic industrial base is recognized as a key component of our nation’s security and is properly supported. It remains critical that American servicemembers receive the best available, domestically produced equipment at the best value to the Federal government.”

The WPRC is leading efforts on Capitol Hill to ensure that best-in-class, American-made equipment is provided to U.S. service members and the operational agencies within the Department of Homeland Security. The Homeland Security Procurement Reform Act was passed unanimously in the House and will be introduced in the Senate to help ensure that American tax dollars are spent on high-quality, American-made uniforms, footwear and personal protective equipment (PPE). The WPRC continues to lead legislative efforts to strengthen the domestic industrial base for Personal Protective Equipment manufacturers.

About the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition and the Sentinel Award:

The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) Sentinel Award is the association’s highest honor, presented annually to policymakers who have demonstrated extraordinary support for the American industry that manufactures advanced combat clothing and equipment for the Armed Services and Department of Homeland Security.

WPRC member companies strive every day to provide innovative, advanced solutions to ensure that our armed forces are prepared for any encounter, anywhere in the world. Senator Chris Murphy represents the State of Connecticut. He serves on the Committee on Appropriations, the Committee on Foreign Relations, and the Committee on Help, Education, Labor and Pensions. Congressman Brian Mast represents the 18th District of Florida and serves on the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on the Transportation and Infrastructure.

WARRIOR PROTECTION AND READINESS COALITION COMMENDS PASSAGE OF THE HOMELAND PROCUREMENT REFORM (HOPR) ACT BY U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Bill to Provide Domestically Manufactured Equipment to Department of Homeland Security 

Operational Personnel Unanimously Approved

MARBLEHEAD, MA (June 25, 2019) – The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) today announced its robust support for the actions taken by the U.S. House of Representatives, who have unanimously approved H.R. 2083, the Homeland Procurement Reform (HOPR) Act.  This important bipartisan legislation is designed to ensure that the operational units within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) including Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), U.S. Secret Service, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) purchase uniforms and equipment manufactured in the United States. 

This bill establishes specific criteria that increases the ability of DHS to obtain high-quality, American-made personal protective equipment (PPE) and organizational clothing and individual equipment (OCIE). The HOPR Act builds upon earlier procurement provisions such as the Berry Amendment and the Kissell Amendment. 

The Berry Amendment sustains an essential industrial base, as well as tens of thousands of manufacturing jobs. It ensures Department of Defense personnel receive high quality, advanced American-made equipment and clothing. No warfighter can be sustained in the field without advanced fabrics, armor, footwear, protective safety gear and many other critical tools. 

The American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) of 2009 contained a provision known as the Kissell Amendment. As enacted, it attached a very narrow requirement for domestic clothing and textile procurement by DHS. The Kissell Amendment has not had its intended effect.  DHS continues to procure uniforms and equipment manufactured in foreign countries, including CBP uniforms which are currently produced in Mexico, in a low security environment.    

Introduced by Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA, 46^th District) and co-sponsored by House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS, 2^nd District), Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL, 18^th District), Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA, 2^nd District), Rep Chris Pappas (D-NH,1^st District),  the HOPR Act ensures that American tax dollars are not improperly spent on low quality items made overseas when American businesses produce the same items at a better value here in the United States. A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate (S. 1055) by Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and co-sponsored by Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Sen. Doug Jones (D-AL).  

Original Sponsor Rep. Lou Correa said, ““I want to thank my colleagues for their support in bringing this legislation to the House Floor. It is a necessary step to ensure our DHS frontline personnel have access to domestically sourced, high-quality uniforms and equipment while allowing domestic small businesses to better compete for Federal government contracts. This is a critical step in helping our men and women in the field get the tools and equipment they need to do their jobs. I am proud of this legislation and proud to say this bill protects our national security and helps small businesses.”

Rep. Brian Mast said, ““The men and women who serve on the border are willing to put their lives on the line to protect our nation’s security,” Rep. Mast said. “Providing Homeland Security with the highest quality, American-made uniforms and protective gear is critical for ensuring their safety and the success of the mission.”

WPRC Executive Director David Costello said, “We are pleased to support the bipartisan effort to extend domestic-focused procurement to the Department of Homeland Security. DHS officials responsible for our national security should be provided with American-made, quality gear and equipment.  The HOPR Act will not only provide high-quality, American made equipment for DHS personnel but also help create jobs and spur manufacturing within the United States. We look forward to working with Senator Shaheen and her colleagues to ensure that this critical legislation passes the Senate and becomes law.” 

A summary of The Homeland Procurement Reform Act can be found here.

About WPRC

WPRC is the unified voice of advocacy for the individual and unit level equipment needs of the warfighter and peacekeeper. The leading tactical equipment, apparel, materials, and technology companies of the WPRC are committed to ensuring that American service members and Homeland Security personnel are provided with superior products built by a robust industrial base, now and in the future. For a complete listing of WPRC member companies, please visit www.warriorprotection.net.

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham and Congressman Lou Correa Presented With 2019 WPRC Sentinel Award

Recognition of their Enduring Championship of American Manufacturing that Supports the Servicemember 

WASHINGTON – The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) is pleased to announce that Senator Lindsey Graham (SC) and Congressman Lou Correa (CA-46) have been awarded the 2019 WPRC Sentinel Award for their legislative leadership on behalf of the domestic defense industrial base that supports U.S. servicemembers and homeland security personnel.  The Sentinel Award specifically recognizes members of Congress for their efforts to provide high quality, American-made personal protective gear, uniforms, footwear and equipment to the Federal government at the best value to the taxpayer.

WPRC Chairman Frank Montie said, “Senator Graham and Congressman Correa have been unwavering advocates on behalf of those who serve in the Armed Services and the Department of Homeland Security. Their leadership in Congress continues to ensure that the domestic industrial base is recognized as a key component of our nation’s security and is properly supported.  It remains critical that American servicemembers receive the best available, domestically produced gear and equipment at the best value to the Federal government.” 

The WPRC is now leading efforts on Capitol Hill to ensure that best-in-class, American-made equipment is provided to the operational agencies within the Department of Homeland Security. The Homeland Security Procurement Reform Act is expected to be introduced in both the House and the Senate this spring to help ensure that American tax dollars are spent on high-quality, American-made uniforms, footwear and personal protective equipment. 

About the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition and the Sentinel Award:

The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) Sentinel Award is the association’s highest honor, presented annually to policymakers who have demonstrated extraordinary support for the American industry that manufactures advanced combat clothing and equipment for the Armed Services and Department of Homeland Security.

WPRC member companies strive every day to provide innovative, advanced solutions to ensure that our armed forces are prepared for any encounter, anywhere in the world. Senator Lindsey Graham represents the State of South Carolina. He serves on the Committee on Appropriations, the Committee on Foreign Relations, the Committee on Budget and Chairs the Committee on the Judiciary. Congressman Lou Correa is from the 46^th District of California and serves on the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on the Judiciary.   

 U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham accepted the 2019 Sentinel Award presented by WPRC Executive Director David Costello (right) and WPRC Chairman Frank Montie (far right).

U.S. Representative Lou Correa accepted the 2019 Sentinel Award presented by WPRC Executive Director David Costello, WPRC Chairman Frank Montie and members of the WPRC.