The resolution urges Congress to ensure the United States Postal Service remains an independent government entity, protected from privatization.
Gary Peters
Senator
MI
The resolution affirms the United States Postal Service (USPS) as an essential and independent federal entity. It recognizes the USPS's critical role in the economy, its service to millions of Americans, and its importance to veterans and communities. The resolution expresses the Senate's opposition to privatizing the USPS, citing concerns about increased costs, reduced services, and negative impacts on e-commerce and infrastructure.
Senate Goes on Record: Keep the Post Office Public, Not Privatized
Okay, so the Senate has put its opinion on paper with this resolution: they think the United States Postal Service (USPS) needs to stay an independent government gig and shouldn't be sold off to private companies. This isn't a law change, but it's the Senate officially stating its view on the matter.
The USPS Scorecard
So, why is the Senate weighing in? The resolution lays out their case. They emphasize that the USPS operates under a constitutional mandate and, importantly, without taxpayer funding, relying solely on revenue from its postal services and products. It's positioned as a linchpin in the massive $1.9 trillion mailing industry, serving over 168 million business and residential addresses daily. The resolution also notes the USPS's status as a highly-rated federal agency and a major employer, providing jobs for nearly 73,000 military veterans.
The Privatization Red Flags
The core message here is a warning against privatization. According to the resolution, selling off the USPS would likely lead to increased costs and reduced services, potentially hitting people in rural communities the hardest where private delivery might be less profitable. The Senate also expresses concern that privatization could endanger the vital e-commerce sector, which heavily depends on USPS for last-mile delivery, and views the postal network itself as critical national infrastructure.
Just Thoughts on Paper? What This Resolution Means
Let's be clear: this resolution is what's called a 'sense of the Senate.' It doesn't actually do anything to legally prevent privatization or change how the USPS operates right now. Think of it as the Senate putting up a big sign saying, 'We believe the USPS should remain independent.' It signals their collective opinion and could influence future debates or actual legislation down the road, but it doesn't carry the force of law itself.