East Idaho Times

U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch, and U.S. Congressman Tom Emmer have introduced the Ammunition Supply Chain Act, which aims to evaluate the current state of the domestic supply of necessary components for smokeless gun powder. Senator Crapo emphasized the importance of a robust supply chain for military operations, stating, "America’s ability to protect its people and allies during times of combat depends on the robust supply chain of goods that allows our military to conduct training and combat operations."

Senator Risch raised concerns about the Biden administration's restrictions on gun owners and the need for transparency regarding the domestic ammunition supply chain, saying, "The Ammunition Supply Chain Act forces transparency from the Biden administration about the status of our domestic ammunition supply chain. This is vital to protect our right to bear arms and to ensure our military has the ammunition it needs to protect our country."

Congressman Emmer highlighted the importance of securing the ammunition supply chain in the face of evolving security threats, stating, "As threats to our nation’s security evolve, it is more important than ever to take proactive measures to secure our ammunition supply chain."

Various other lawmakers have joined in support of the legislation, recognizing the significance of a stable supply chain for ammunition production. The bill has also garnered support from industry leaders such as Jason Vanderbrink, CEO of The Kinetic Group, who emphasized the importance of the Ammunition Supply Chain Act in ensuring a steady supply of nitrocellulose for ammunition production.

Lawrence G. Keane, Senior Vice President of the National Shooting Sports Foundation, echoed the need for a dependable supply chain, stating, "The Ammunition Supply Chain Act would ensure there would be inherent resiliency in the supply chains that source necessary material to our industry, which provides the critical tools that are the means to protecting our nation, our freedoms and our hunting and shooting sports heritage."

The Ammunition Supply Chain Act aims to address concerns about the domestic supply and production of nitrocellulose by requiring the administration to submit a report to Congress on the domestic supply chain for smokeless gunpowder. The legislation underscores the importance of securing the supply of essential materials for ammunition manufacturing, which is crucial for the military, firearms producers, and various other sectors that rely on nitrocellulose.

Nitrocellulose, a key component in modern smokeless gunpowder, has faced challenges in the global supply chain in recent years, leading to increased costs and difficulties in acquiring ammunition. The proposed legislation seeks to ensure a resilient supply chain for nitrocellulose, nitroglycerin, and acid production, essential for the production of smokeless gunpowder and various other applications.