U.S. Army reverses policy restricting YPG’s social media account

YUMA COUNTY, Ariz. (KYMA) - Sens. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) and John Curtis (R-Utah) announced that the U.S. Army is reversing its policy to restrict Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) from maintaining their social media account.

This comes nearly two weeks after Sens. Kelly and Curtis wrote a letter to the Army, warning them that the restrictions would undermine their ability to communicate with surrounding communities and attract private-sector partners.

In a letter to Army Under Secretary Michael Obadal, they wrote about their concerns about the Army's June 2026 directive, centralizing official social media communications.

They highlighted how the restrictions conflict with the Army's efforts to expand partnerships with private industries, warned it could also affect communication with public safety, and disrupt community awareness.

Following this, the Army said they acknowledged the "unique needs of proving grounds," and allowed YPG, along with Dugway Proving Ground (DPG), and the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command Headquarters (ATEC), "to maintain official social media accounts."

"In light of your request and a comprehensive re-evaluation of these unique requirements, the Department of the Army has reconsidered its previous position. I am pleased to inform you that we are approving Exceptions to Policy (ETPs) to authorize official social media accounts for [ATEC] Headquarters, [YPG], and [DPG]," the Army said about its decision to reverse course.

In response to the Army's decision, Kelly issued a statement to News 11 saying, "[YPG] does critical work for our national security, and its strong relationships with the local community and businesses are a big part of that. This decision will help the testing facility keep the community informed, build partnerships, and better support our military. I'm glad the Army listened and made this commonsense fix."

Julie Engel, President of Yuma 50, also issued a statement on the Army's policy reversal saying, "The Yuma 50 and our Ex Aficio-Yuma Proving Ground member reported this issue to Senator Kelly, shortly after the Yuma Proving Ground's request was denied. Senator Kelly immediately took action to assist Army Test & Evaluation Command, Yuma Proving Ground, and Dugway Proving Ground. We are very thankful to both Senator Kelly and Senator Curtis for their efforts in restoring communications for these critical installations. Efforts are underway for a streamlined testing process for defense contractors, having the ability to promote this and all other test capabilities, is the lifeblood of ATEC, YPG, and DPG. We are so grateful to have this ability restored. Thank you to the staff who assisted in this herculean task, we are indebted to all of you."