1973 Duster Bumpers Deconstrucion

I was looking at my bumpers for my 73 Duster yesterday (off the car) and noticed they have this super heavy-duty bracing behind the chrome cover. I was wondering if anyone has removed it?

I was deciding that they are not necessary and only part of the 1973 mandated crash-worthiness. Could I remove it and is it worth the hassle. Seems like I would save some weight at least?

Thanks