Fullerton initiates class action lawsuit against fire equipment manufacturers for alleged antitrust violations.

The city of Fullerton, California, has initiated a federal class-action lawsuit against three prominent manufacturers of fire apparatus and numerous affiliated dealers, citing violations of antitrust laws aimed at monopolizing the industry. This legal action, which was filed on April 21, targets Oshkosh Corporation, REV Group, Inc., and Boise Mobile Equipment Inc., among others. The lawsuit alleges that these companies’ practices have led to inflated costs for firefighting equipment and have significantly delayed deliveries, which ultimately puts public safety at risk.

In its complaint, Fullerton seeks restitution for profits allegedly garnered through these unlawful practices, aiming to reimburse the city and other affected parties for the inflated prices they have been compelled to pay. The lawsuit opens with the poignant account of a tragic incident involving a resident who succumbed to a fire in his home. It argues that his death, occurring during the January 2025 Eaton fire, could have been prevented if adequate fire apparatus had been available. The narrative emphasizes that the Los Angeles Fire Department had over half of its fire trucks out of service at that time, limiting their operational capacity.

The lawsuit paints a stark picture of an industry where financial constraints hinder essential equipment availability. It claims that major players like Oshkosh and REV control approximately 76% of the fire apparatus market, with Oshkosh alone accounting for over 50%. This concentration, the complaint suggests, has facilitated monopolistic practices, including a deliberate restriction of supply, absorption of competitors through aggressive acquisitions, and digital price fixing.

While representatives from Oshkosh did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding the lawsuit, both REV Group and Oshkosh had previously dismissed a similar lawsuit filed by La Crosse, Wisconsin, labeling it as meritless. As of now, there has been no response recorded in the court’s online system regarding the Fullerton lawsuit.

Previously, city officials had expressed concerns about the escalating costs and delays linked to fire truck procurement, leading them to file a complaint with the California Attorney General’s Office in September 2023. The situation has drawn attention from the International Association of Fire Fighters, which has urged federal investigations into the industry due to the alarming rise in fire truck prices, which have reportedly doubled over the last decade.

Fullerton Fire Chief Adam Loeser emphasized the imperative need for reliable equipment in emergency situations, noting that prolonged delays and exorbitant costs place an undue burden on departmental operations. Additionally, officials pointed out that a critical .2 million fire apparatus, which serves dual functions as both an engine and a ladder truck, ordered in 2023, remains undelivered. The impacts of these unlawful practices on public safety are clear, as noted by Fullerton Mayor Fred Jung, who remarked on the necessity of pursuing accountability to safeguard the community’s well-being.

This ongoing legal battle is emblematic of broader issues within the firefighting equipment industry, where rising costs and supply chain constraints are fostering a critical need for reform.

Media News Source