The issue stems from a 2006 law that required the Postal Service to create a $72 billion fund that would pay for its employees’ retirement health benefits for more than 50 years into the future. This is not required by any other federal agency.
The “USPS Fairness Act,” introduced by Democrats and Republicans in both chambers, would do away with the requirement and comes as some lawmakers and the biggest Postal Service union have called for President Joe Biden to quickly install new leadership in the federal agency.
“The unreasonable prefunding mandate has threatened the survival of the USPS and placed at risk vital services for the millions who rely on it,” said Rep. Peter DeFazio, D-Ore., one of the bill’s sponsors.
Supporters of the Postal Service highlighted the economic burden it faced during the many delivery delays observed last year, with some advocates noting the need for Congress to dissolve the mandate.
Then-President Donald Trump opposed providing the struggling agency any financial relief.
Call your congresscritters and ask them to support the USPS Fairness Act!