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S 4611

A bill to require retrofitting of anti-lock brake system and electronic stability control kit for certain Army vehicles.

118th Congress Introduced by Tom Cotton

Bill S 4611 mandates retrofitting Army HMMWVs with anti-lock brakes and stability control by 2030, enhancing safety and operational effectiveness for personnel.

Introduced in Senate
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Bill Summary · S 4611

Summary of Bill S 4611

Title: A bill to require retrofitting of anti-lock brake system and electronic stability control kit for certain Army vehicles
Bill Number: S 4611
Status: Introduced in Senate
Introduced Date: June 20, 2024
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 4611 aims to enhance the safety and operational effectiveness of high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWVs) used by the Army. By mandating the retrofitting of these vehicles with advanced safety technologies—specifically, anti-lock brake systems and electronic stability control kits—the bill seeks to reduce the risk of accidents and improve vehicle handling in various conditions.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines several critical provisions:

  1. Retrofitting Requirement:

    • By September 30, 2030, all HMMWVs identified in the Army's Tactical Wheeled Vehicle Strategy must be retrofitted with the specified safety systems.

  2. Development of a Plan:

    • The Secretary of the Army is tasked with developing a comprehensive plan to meet the retrofitting requirement. This plan must include:
      • Steps to increase production of the required systems and conduct retrofitting at the Red River Army Depot in Texas.
      • Identification of challenges that may hinder meeting the retrofitting requirement and strategies to address these challenges.
      • An estimated monthly rate of retrofits necessary to comply with the deadline.
      • A funding plan to support the retrofitting efforts.
      • Identification of any additional authorities or funding needed for transportation related to the retrofitting.

  3. Reporting Requirements:

    • Within 90 days of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of the Army must submit the developed plan to the congressional defense committees.
    • The Secretary must also certify to the congressional defense committees by March 1 of each year from 2026 to 2028 that the Army's budget will support the retrofitting requirement.

Impact

This legislation is expected to affect:

  • Army Personnel and Operations: The retrofitting will enhance the safety of personnel operating these vehicles, potentially reducing accident rates and improving mission effectiveness.
  • Manufacturers and Contractors: Companies involved in the production of anti-lock brake systems and electronic stability control kits may see increased demand for their products.
  • Military Budgeting: The Army will need to allocate funds and resources to meet the retrofitting requirements, which may impact other budgetary priorities.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: June 20, 2024
  • Referred to Committee: June 20, 2024 (Committee on Armed Services)
  • Plan Submission Deadline: 90 days post-enactment
  • Certification Dates: March 1, 2026; March 1, 2027; March 1, 2028

Related Bills

  • S 4638: A companion bill that may address similar or related issues.

This summary provides an overview of Bill S 4611, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, potential impacts, and important procedural timelines.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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