USPS Changes Could Slow Rural Deliveries

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has proposed changes aimed at saving $3 billion annually by revising delivery times and increasing reliance on regional hubs. The measures could result in slower delivery times for rural areas while maintaining a commitment to a maximum five-day delivery for first-class mail and three-day local delivery. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy emphasized the necessity of these changes due to an 80% decline in first-class mail volume since 1997 and over $87 billion in losses from 2007 to 2020. While election mail and holiday shipments will not be affected, the changes could worsen service disparities between urban and rural customers. Critics argue that slowing down service while raising prices could lead to further decline in USPS's viability. The proposals will be discussed in an upcoming conference before being submitted to the Postal Regulatory Commission.