USPS warns post offices may close without changes

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy has expressed serious concerns about the future of the United States Postal Service (USPS). He warned that without immediate changes, the agency risks more closures, delays, and disruptions affecting millions of Americans. In a letter to Congress, DeJoy highlighted four key issues the USPS faces. First, he mentioned difficulties in renewing leases for nearly 31,000 retail centers due to urban development and rising rental rates. He fears that these challenges could lead to further closures. Second, DeJoy pointed out a significant problem with counterfeit postage, which is costing the agency around $1 billion each year. He has asked for innovative solutions to address this issue. The third issue relates to federal laws that impose unfunded mandates on the USPS. These laws are estimated to cost the agency between $6 billion and $11 billion annually. Lastly, DeJoy criticized regulatory restrictions which he claims have led to over $50 billion in losses, describing the Postal Regulatory Commission's pricing models as defective. DeJoy's leadership continues to face criticism, with some calling for his removal. Meanwhile, he plans to raise stamp prices, affecting customers further as rates are expected to increase by up to 11.6% in July for certain mail products. With declining mail volume and rising costs, the USPS’s long-term viability is under intense scrutiny.