WASHINGTON, D.C.: The largest firefighters' union in the United States is calling for federal antitrust authorities to investigate the fire truck manufacturing industry, alleging that consolidation among major players has driven up prices and led to years-long wait times for essential emergency vehicles.

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) urged the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission to scrutinize three companies — REV Group, Oshkosh, and Rosenbauer — that collectively control about two-thirds of the U.S. fire and emergency vehicle market.

In a letter to regulators, IAFF President Edward Kelly stated that fire truck prices have doubled over the past decade, with ladder trucks now costing up to US$2 million each. Kelly said that supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and rising costs have compounded the problem, creating a "critical hazard in public safety."

"It's a matter of life and death," Kelly told Reuters. "Communities are being left vulnerable because fire departments can't get the equipment they need."

Oshkosh spokesperson Lisa Barwick stated that the company is investing in technology and production capacity to meet the growing demand. "Global supply challenges, unprecedented demand, and significant inflation since the pandemic started in 2020 have resulted in extended delivery times and increased prices," she said.

REV Group cited similar challenges, noting that it has increased production by nearly 30 percent over the past two years and introduced semi-custom trucks with shorter delivery times. Rosenbauer did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The IAFF and the American Economic Liberties Project, an antimonopoly group, argue that the lack of competition is forcing fire departments into contracts with "floating" pricing structures, where the final cost can increase after an order is placed.

Kelly said the impact has been felt nationwide, from Atlanta to San Francisco, with reports of dozens of fire trucks being out of service during wildfires that ravaged Los Angeles earlier this year.

"This is a public safety issue," Kelly said. "We are paying the price for corporate decisions that may benefit investors but leave first responders without critical equipment."

The union is urging the DOJ and FTC to investigate how consolidation is affecting access to parts, vehicle maintenance, and other emergency services equipment. Kelly emphasized that the effects of consolidation extend beyond fire trucks, impacting everything from dispatch software to protective gear.