Editor’s note: Foundry workers with Rock Island Arsenal – Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center conduct a foundry pour into sand molds April 16, 2025, at Rock Island Arsenal, IL. Huntsville has signed off on a $67 million Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program (ERCIP) contract, to provide Rock Island Arsenal with secure, self-sufficient energy. Photo by Debralee Best.
In Washington, DC, Congressman Eric Sorensen fiercely advocated for protecting essential jobs at the Rock Island [, IL,] Arsenal, during a House Armed Services Committee hearing, amidst news reports suggesting the Department of Defense is planning a significant reduction in force at the Arsenal.
“To maintain our Country’s readiness, I strongly oppose civilian workforce cuts to the Rock Island Arsenal! The Arsenal plays a critical role in maintaining our Country’s military readiness, to combat threats around the globe. Any potential layoffs threaten to hurt our National security.”
He demanded the Department of Defense protect essential National security jobs at the Arsenal.
“Our mission here at the Arsenal is essential,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “At a time when we face all kinds of threats all across the globe, we need a strong civilian workforce, that is supporting the Department of Defense and its readiness to maintain
our Country’s readiness. ”
Congressman Sorensen has taken advantage of his new position on the House Armed Services Committee to advocate for the Rock Island Arsenal.
He recently led a bipartisan effort with Senators Chuck Grassley, Dick Durbin, and Tammy Duckworth, to ensure the Department of Defense would not be jeopardizing our Country’s military readiness, with large job cuts.
Earlier this year, Sorensen introduced the Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act. This Legislation would ensure the Rock Island Arsenal can remain competitive, create good-paying jobs, and sustain the regional economy.