Bipartisan Postal Bill Offers Hope for Compromise but Faces Challenges

Two top Senators have introduced a bipartisan bill to overhaul the ailing U.S. Postal Service's (USPS), a contrast to House Democrats and Republicans who remained divided last week as Congress headed into its five-week recess.

Proposed by Sens. Tom Carper (D-Del.) and Tom Coburn (R-Okla.), the legislation would restructure the agency’s prefunding requirement for retirement benefits and allow a gradual end to Saturday mail delivery, as well as general door-to-door service if financially necessary.

“Although the situation is dire, it isn’t hopeless,” Carper said. “With the right tools and quick action from Congress, the Postal Service can reform, right-size and modernize.”