Rev Group and Pierce Manufacturing Address Fire Truck Supply Challenges Before Congress
September 10, 2025 | Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Senate Committee, Standing Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
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In a pivotal meeting of the Subcommittee on Disaster Management, held on September 10, 2025, the urgent challenges facing America’s fire apparatus industry took center stage. As the nation approaches the anniversary of September 11, the discussions highlighted the critical need for reliable fire trucks and the struggles that fire departments face in securing these essential vehicles.
Rev Group, a prominent American manufacturer of fire trucks, emphasized its commitment to producing high-quality, handcrafted vehicles sourced from 98% American materials. The company’s representative passionately described how their operations not only support local economies but also ensure that firefighters have the dependable equipment they need in emergencies. With a workforce spread across several states, Rev Group has ramped up production by 40% over the past three years, aiming to reduce delivery times, which currently average two years.
However, the meeting revealed a stark reality: fire departments across the country are grappling with prolonged lead times and rising costs. Chief Rubin from an urban fire department shared alarming anecdotes of operational challenges, including instances where firefighters had to respond with inadequate vehicles, putting lives at risk. He recounted a tragic incident in Chicago where a malfunctioning ladder truck delayed a rescue, resulting in the loss of four lives, including that of a young child.
Dan Meyer, representing Pierce Manufacturing, echoed these concerns, acknowledging the unacceptable lead times that have emerged since the pandemic. He reported that Pierce has invested significantly to increase production capacity and has expanded its workforce by over 25%. Despite these efforts, the demand for fire trucks continues to outpace supply, leaving many departments in precarious situations.
The subcommittee members expressed their commitment to addressing these issues, recognizing that the safety of communities hinges on the availability of reliable fire apparatus. As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the situation was palpable, with a clear call to action for manufacturers and policymakers alike to ensure that firefighters are equipped with the tools they need to protect lives and property. The discussions underscored a collective responsibility to support those who bravely serve on the front lines of emergencies, reinforcing the notion that every fire truck is not just a vehicle, but a lifeline for communities in need.
Rev Group, a prominent American manufacturer of fire trucks, emphasized its commitment to producing high-quality, handcrafted vehicles sourced from 98% American materials. The company’s representative passionately described how their operations not only support local economies but also ensure that firefighters have the dependable equipment they need in emergencies. With a workforce spread across several states, Rev Group has ramped up production by 40% over the past three years, aiming to reduce delivery times, which currently average two years.
However, the meeting revealed a stark reality: fire departments across the country are grappling with prolonged lead times and rising costs. Chief Rubin from an urban fire department shared alarming anecdotes of operational challenges, including instances where firefighters had to respond with inadequate vehicles, putting lives at risk. He recounted a tragic incident in Chicago where a malfunctioning ladder truck delayed a rescue, resulting in the loss of four lives, including that of a young child.
Dan Meyer, representing Pierce Manufacturing, echoed these concerns, acknowledging the unacceptable lead times that have emerged since the pandemic. He reported that Pierce has invested significantly to increase production capacity and has expanded its workforce by over 25%. Despite these efforts, the demand for fire trucks continues to outpace supply, leaving many departments in precarious situations.
The subcommittee members expressed their commitment to addressing these issues, recognizing that the safety of communities hinges on the availability of reliable fire apparatus. As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the situation was palpable, with a clear call to action for manufacturers and policymakers alike to ensure that firefighters are equipped with the tools they need to protect lives and property. The discussions underscored a collective responsibility to support those who bravely serve on the front lines of emergencies, reinforcing the notion that every fire truck is not just a vehicle, but a lifeline for communities in need.
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