USPS Mail Carriers Secure Pay Raises and Air-Conditioned Trucks

In October 2024, approximately 200,000 letter carriers in the United States reached a tentative contract with the U.S. Postal Service, marking a significant development following months of negotiations that began after the previous contract expired in May 2023. The proposed agreement, which will require ratification by union members and lasts until November 2026, includes backdated pay raises and improvements in working conditions, such as the promise of air-conditioned delivery trucks. Brian Renfroe, president of the National Association of Letter Carriers, remarked on the importance of the negotiations, stating that while not all demands were met, the outcome reflected a good faith effort. The new terms provide for three annual pay increases of 1.3% each and retroactive cost-of-living adjustments for workers, thus emphasizing the Postal Service's recognition of the contributions made by its mail carriers. Additionally, the Postal Service is committed to enhancing its operational capabilities as part of its long-term modernization plan, referred to as "Delivering for America." With this agreement, the Postal Service is not only affirming its dedication to the welfare of its employees but also adapting to evolving customer needs with newer electric vehicles, which have received positive feedback compared to older models. This contract represents the second since the appointment of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy in 2020. It is noteworthy that rural mail carriers are not included in this agreement due to their representation by a different union.