WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04) joined U.S. Senators Mitt Romney (R-UT) and Mike Lee (R-UT), and Representatives Chris Stewart (UT-02), John Curtis (UT-03), and Blake Moore (UT-01), introduced the Chemical and Biological Defense Program Improvement Act, legislation to remove a bureaucratic roadblock that prevents the U.S. Army from requesting funding for military construction projects related to chem-bio program facilities like those at Utah’s Dugway Proving Ground.

“Dugway Proving Ground (DPG) in Utah has been at the forefront of American innovation in biological and chemical defense capabilities for over eight decades,” said Representative Owens. “I am proud to join my colleagues from the Utah delegation to support the Chemical and Biological Defense Program Improvement Act to enhance American defense capabilities, boost Utah’s economy, and bolster our national security.”

“Utah’s Dugway Proving Ground plays a critical role in bolstering our country’s national defense by ensuring our military is prepared for evolving chemical and biological threats,” said Senator Romney. “Dugway is in dire need of improvements to facilities; yet, an obscure and outdated federal statute prohibits the Army from even requesting funding for military construction projects for chem-bio program facilities. Our legislation would remove this impediment and help Dugway to continue its vital work.”

“Dugway Proving Ground (DPG) and its Chemical and Biological Defense mission are critical to U.S. readiness for the fights of the future,” said Senator Lee. “Cutting bureaucratic red tape to request military construction funds alleviates an unnecessary burden and allows the hard-working men and women at Dugway to spend their time and talents on the core mission.”

“It’s necessary that our nation is capable of defending itself in an increasingly dangerous world,” said Representative Stewart.“America’s adversaries are growing bolder, and Dugway Proving Ground is a jewel in our nation’s ability to counter chemical and biological threats. This bill will finally enable the facility to address its needs and subsequently better address the evolving threats to our nation.”

“Dugway Proving Ground is one of the most important military installations that protect our national security,” said Representative Curtis. “I am proud to support this legislation with the Utah Delegation to ensure Dugway can better complete its mission.”

“Dugway Proving Ground has earned its place as a key installation in fulfilling the Department of Defense’s unique and challenging Chemical-Biological mission,” said Representative Moore. “DPG’s effectiveness and establishment during the Second World War was due to its remote location. This intentional isolation is no excuse for the consistent neglect of DPG. Continued investment and modernization of DPG is not only necessary for the quality of life of those living and working in the area, but it is essential to the continued safety and security of a challenging Chem-Bio mission. This bill will greatly help improve DPG, and I’m proud to join the Utah delegation in this effort.”

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