WASHINGTON, DC – At a time when the United States Postal Service is under strain due to a lack of carriers and supply shortages, Idaho communities have reported struggles in conveying needs to the federal agency and have experienced sudden and surprising post office closures. U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch and Representatives Russ Fulcher and Mike Simpson (all R-Idaho) have introduced legislation in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives to improve access to local USPS post offices. The Mandating Advisable and Informed Locations and Solutions (MAILS) Act would require more community input before relocating a post office and encourage recommendations from municipalities to request additional post offices.
From Idaho Delegation:
“Post offices remain a valued part of our communities and a respected means of sending goods and messages,” said Crapo. “The communities, especially rural towns across Idaho, that rely on local post offices must continue to have access to prompt, reliable and efficient service responsive to their needs.”
“Many communities in Idaho lack access or have waited years for a physical post office,” said Risch. “The MAILS Act ensures USPS considers the needs of Idahoans who rely on the postal service when they apply for new postal facilities.”
“Idahoans understand all too well how the closure of local post offices can create significant hardships for both residents and businesses,” said Representative Fulcher. “Whether it’s to receive medications, business documents, or to stay connected with loved ones, millions depend on reliable and accessible mail delivery—regardless of how rural their neighborhood is. That is why I introduced the MAILS Act alongside my Idaho congressional colleagues to ensure community voices are considered before changes are made to the postal system and to provide a pathway for local governments to advocate for the services their residents need.”
“As Idaho’s population continues to grow, it’s essential that public services keep up with the demand,” said Simpson. “The MAILS Act creates a significant opportunity for community members to have their voices heard regarding local postal service needs. I’m proud to cosponsor this legislation, which will enhance the efficiency and transparency of the United States Postal Service, ensuring it better serves the people who rely on it every day.”
U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) is also a co-sponsor in the Senate.
The Idaho Congressional Delegation has been active in working with a number of Idaho communities and the Postal Service to resolve issues with access to postal operations. The City of Meridian is requesting USPS establish a new post office in the city, but USPS could not delineate the process for requesting a new post office. Likewise, Idaho communities in Deary and Viola were notified local post offices were closing without community input, creating difficulties and inconveniences for residents and businesses traveling long distances to obtain mail, some including needed medications.
Text of the bill is available here.
