POSTAL: End pre-funding law

The primary mission of the U.S. Postal Service is to provide safe, reliable, affordable delivery of mail and packages to every address in the United States and its territories.

However, as long as the ominous pre-funding of future retiree health benefits mandate remains in place at the rate of $5.5 billion per year, especially during this holiday season, it makes it extremely challenging for everyone, customers and employees alike.

I believe that our customers like the convenience and best rates possible. Rural states like Idaho want to have the same kind of service that the most populous areas receive. The closing of mail facilities such as post offices and mail processing plants, along with reducing service is not the answer.

The positive and most effective solution to the Postal Services financial challenge is to pass laws in Congress to use its own overpayments in the retirement systems and to eliminate the unnecessary pre-funding requirement. No tax dollars whatsoever are involved with the Postal Service revenue. Currently, there are two bills in congress to positively solve the Postal Services’ financial challenges using no tax dollars: HR 630 and S 316. The positive solution is out there: Let’s use it.

JOHN PAIGE

Idaho State Association of Letter Carriers

Pocatello