USPS Plans to Slow Service to Save Money

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is contemplating significant cost-cutting measures that could lead to slower mail delivery, particularly for long-distance and rural services. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy indicated that if these changes are enacted, which would occur post-November elections, customers living within 50 miles of major processing facilities would experience faster delivery. However, rural areas may see an additional day added to current delivery schedules, as reported by The Washington Post. DeJoy emphasized that the potential delays are a necessary compromise to address the agency's long-standing neglect. He noted that while other countries have longer and more expensive delivery times, the USPS is striving to "literally save" the Postal Service. The proposed changes aim to save the agency approximately $30 billion over the next decade, as it grapples with financial challenges that have persisted for over 15 years, according to the Government Accountability Office (GAO). The USPS has been facing a decline in its most profitable product, First-Class Mail, leading to a situation where expenses consistently outpace revenues. This financial strain has resulted in increased debt and unfunded liabilities for the agency. Despite the proposed adjustments, the USPS assures that it will maintain existing service standards for First-Class Mail and will not affect Election Mail for the upcoming election or preparations for Peak Season 2024. In summary, while the USPS seeks to implement these changes to stabilize its finances, the impact on delivery times, especially in rural areas, raises concerns among customers and stakeholders.