We’re looking forward to our second annual “Hill Day” in Washington, D.C. this month. More than three dozen AUSPL members and several board members will be meeting with Senators and Representatives to discuss the value of the leasing program to the Postal Service.
Specifically, we are urging Congress to:
1. Ensure the value and cost-savings of the leasing program and leased facilities are required to be considered when determining any USPS closings or criteria for future facility operations.
2. Ensure leased facilities are fully considered as a means of ensuring service to rural areas.
3. Ensure leased facilities are fully considered as a means of ensuring the universal service mandate is met by the USPS.
4. Limit emergency post office closures to situations involving serious health or safety risks.
We have invited lawmakers who are key to postal reform, including members of the Rural Caucus, to our reception in the Capitol Building on Wednesday evening. Congressman David Jolly (R-FL), one of our postal reform legislative champions, will speak. We also have other strong advocates in the House and Senate who support our cause, and we will continue to work with them as postal reform moves ahead.
This is a great opportunity to build on our success as each visit, call and letter by AUSPL members and management has had great impact. Time is of the essence as Congress moves into election mode later this summer. We will report on our meetings next month.