WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) sent a letter to U.S. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy requesting information about how the Postal Service plans to ensure on-time deliveries and safe working conditions during the holiday season.
Millions of Minnesotans depend of the Postal Service to pay bills, receive prescriptions, and conduct other essential business. When service is unreliable, Minnesotans can face serious consequences – from late payment fees and social security checks to days without critical prescription medications. Smith also pushed DeJoy to ensure Postal Service employees, who are often overworked during this busy time of year, are adequately supported.
“The timeliness of deliveries and safety of workers are both critical issues in Minnesota, where severe weather adds a complicated dimension to the usual peak-season delivery challenges,” wrote Senator Smith. “I urge you to take every possible precaution and preparation to protect workers and ensure timely deliveries this holiday season.”
In her letter, Smith requested responses to the following questions by November 23, 2023:
- Is the Postal Service taking steps to ensure that all mail and packages are delivered on time this holiday season?
- Is the Postal Service taking steps to ensure Postal Service employees are supported during this peak season?
- In a September 19 press release, the Postal Service announced its intention to hire an additional 10,000 seasonal employees. How many seasonal employees has the Postal Service hired to date and, of these workers, how many are working in Minnesota?
- In the event of delivery delays or disruptions in Minnesota, how should Minnesotans reach out to the Postal Service for information?
- Will you commit to proactively notifying my office of any delivery delays or disruptions in Minnesota between November 27, 2023 and January 5, 2024?
You can find a full copy of the letter here.