Editor’s Review: PMG Responds To Chairman Peters

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The response from the Postmaster General (PMG) to concerns raised by Senate signatories regarding mail processing facility reviews (MPFRs) raises more questions than it answers. While the PMG asserts that the MPFRs are meant to improve service reliability and achieve cost savings, the lack of concrete details and transparency in the process is concerning. The promise of no layoffs and improved working conditions is commendable, but without clear plans and timelines, it’s hard to take these assurances at face value.

The decision to pause the implementation of these moves until at least after January 1, 2025, is a step in the right direction. However, the PMG’s commitment to informing the signatories of any future plans does little to address the lack of public input and engagement in the decision-making process. It’s crucial that the USPS prioritize transparency and accountability in its modernization efforts to build trust with employees and the public.

Furthermore, the estimated annual cost savings associated with the mail moves raise questions about the potential impact on service quality. While cost savings are important, they should not come at the expense of timely and reliable mail delivery. The PMG’s assertion that these changes will not adversely impact service is difficult to reconcile with the concerns raised by Senate signatories and employees.

In conclusion, while the PMG’s response offers some reassurances, there is still much to be desired in terms of transparency, public engagement, and accountability. The USPS must prioritize these principles moving forward to ensure that its modernization efforts benefit both employees and customers alike.

A More Perfect Union

The United States Postal Service is undergoing a 10-year plan to modernize its processing and delivery network, including the establishment of Regional Processing and Distribution Centers (RPDCs) and the repurposing of some facilities. This plan has already led to changes in mail processing and delivery efficiency, such as the establishment of the Atlanta RPDC region with a new facility in Palmetto and the repurposing of four Local Processing Centers (LPCs). However, these changes also bring challenges for employees represented by the American Postal Workers Union (APWU), including shifts in job roles, work locations, and schedules. The APWU is committed to protecting its members’ interests throughout this transformation, ensuring transparent communication, enforcing the collective bargaining agreement (CBA), initiating grievances when necessary, and advocating for fair treatment.

Here’s an excellent 14 min. video by “A More Perfect Union” explaining how Postmaster General Louis DeJoy is destroying the postal service.