Political Quotes

“The two provisions raise a number of unanswered questions, questions that remain unanswered by the advocates of these provisions, and which could lead to significant consequences for public and private sector components of the industrial base. Let me share two examples. First, the provision expands the definition of depot maintenance to include the installation of modifications and upgrades to end-items--a measure potentially harmful to competition. There is a concern that the Army may be required by this provision to direct work related to the Modernized Expanded Capacity Vehicle, MECV, program to the public sector without a full and open competition allowing experienced private entities to bid. It is my view that the MECV is much more than a modification to a weapon system because it is an acquisition program. I understand this view is shared by the Army, which has consistently said the source selection for the MECV will be full, open, and fair. Those who have invested in this program deserve to know that this language does not restrict competition or introduce, in any way, an incentive to favor the public or the private sector as it relates to acquisition programs, and the MECV program in particular. While depot maintenance work is an important component of both the public and private sector industrial base, Congress has consistently supported a strong core requirement at the depots for national security reasons.…”