Sen. Jon Ossoff Proposes Legislation to Reform Postmaster General Selection Process
In a move to address the recent mail-service breakdown in Georgia, Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff has introduced the Postmaster General Reform Act. This legislation aims to give Congress more control over the selection of the U.S. postmaster general, a critical position responsible for overseeing the U.S. Postal Service.
Key Points of the Postmaster General Reform Act:
- The Act would require the U.S. Senate to confirm a president’s appointment to the role of postmaster general, which is currently appointed by the U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors without congressional confirmation.
- It would establish term limits for postmaster generals, allowing them to serve a maximum of two five-year terms. Currently, there are no term limits for this position.
During a news conference, Ossoff emphasized the need for stronger leadership and management within the U.S. Postal Service, citing the recent operational failures in Georgia as evidence of the postmaster general’s incompetence. Lawmakers from various states have criticized the current postmaster general, Louis DeJoy, for his management of the Postal Service.
Challenges Faced by the U.S. Postal Service:
- The Postal Service has faced nationwide slowdowns in delivery and financial losses, with an $87 billion deficit from 2007 to 2020.
- Operational issues at postal facilities, such as the one in Palmetto, Georgia, have contributed to delivery hiccups and reduced service performance.
Impact on Georgia’s Mail Service:
- Georgia was ranked as the worst-performing state in a Postal Service service performance report for the second quarter of 2024.
- Following the consolidation of facilities in Palmetto, delivery rates slowed, with on-time delivery rates dropping below 40% in March 2023 before rebounding above 80%.
Senator Ossoff’s Advocacy for Improved Postal Service:
Ossoff has been vocal in pressing for updates and improvements to the Postal Service’s operations, emphasizing the importance of reliable mail delivery for seniors, citizens, and small businesses. He visited the Palmetto facility in June to witness the challenges firsthand and has called for bipartisan support for the Postmaster General Reform Act.
In conclusion, the proposed legislation seeks to address the systemic issues within the U.S. Postal Service and ensure better oversight and accountability in selecting postmaster generals. By reforming the selection process and establishing term limits, Ossoff aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Postal Service, ultimately benefiting all Americans who rely on its services for essential mail delivery.
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*Charlotte Kramon is a corps