Alabama House Bill HR73

Alabama 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/11/23
• Refer: 4/11/23
• Report Pass: 4/19/23
• Passed: 4/19/23

Caption

URGING THE MEMBERS OF THE ALABAMA CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO PROTECT ALABAMA’S GLOBAL NATIONAL DEFENSE MISSION BY SUPPORTING FUNDING FROM THE NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT TO EXPAND THE AIRCRAFT REFUELING PARKING RAMP FOR THE 117TH AIR REFUELING WING.

Impact

The proposed expansion is expected to address current limitations regarding the parking ramp, which is undersized and does not meet the 50-foot wingtip clearance requirement between parked aircraft necessary for safe refueling and defueling operations. The resolution indicates that, while a temporary waiver allows operations to continue, full compliance with safety standards is critical to optimize the Wing's operational readiness and capability to incorporate newer military equipment, such as the KC-46 refueling tanker, which is intended to replace older aircraft in the inventory.

Summary

HR73 is a resolution aimed at urging the members of the Alabama Congressional delegation to support funding through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the expansion of the aircraft refueling parking ramp for the 117th Air Refueling Wing at Sumpter Smith Air National Guard Base in Birmingham, Alabama. This action is deemed necessary to enhance the military capabilities of the Wing, which has been serving vital aerial refueling missions for the U.S. Air Force and allied nations for over 60 years. The resolution emphasizes the importance of maintaining global national defense missions and upgrading military infrastructure.

Contention

The discussions surrounding HR73 may center on the allocation of federal funds and the prioritization of national defense projects within the state's budget. There may be points of contention regarding the perceived necessity and justification for the funding, particularly considering other potential state needs. Stakeholders might debate the implications of military expansion on local communities, balancing economic benefits against concerns of militarization and federal dependency. Overall, support for the bill is expected from local leaders and military advocates, highlighting the economic and strategic benefits of bolstering Alabama's military infrastructure.