WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) led an amendment that will direct the United States Postal Service (USPS) to produce a plan on how they will reopen closed facilities and reestablish service in Western North Carolina. This amendment was included in the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2026 and was approved by the Committee with a vote of 35 to 28.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, post offices across Western North Carolina sustained major damage and were forced to close their doors and halt operations. Almost a year later, five post offices in NC-11 remain closed.
Post offices are pillars in rural communities, and these prolonged closures are negatively impacting constituents throughout our district. Many Western North Carolinians report inconsistent and confusing guidance from USPS on the reestablishment of service.
Congressman Edwards has consistently worked to ensure the timely restoration of closed postal facilities. Earlier this year, he questioned USPS Inspector General, Tammy Hull, and raised concerns about the inoperable post offices. He requested that the Inspector General provide more details on the repair plans and the prioritization process for which facilities would be addressed first. After vague and evasive answers, Congressman Edwards demanded that USPS restore to full capacity, affirming that his constituents deserve the postal services they once relied upon.
