Budzinski Backs Bill to Protect USPS

Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) introduced the bipartisan Protect Postal Performance Act, aiming to prevent the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) from downsizing facilities in underserved areas, enhance oversight of delivery schedule modifications, and increase public transparency regarding proposed changes. The legislation is co-led by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Congresswoman Harriet Hageman (WY-AL), Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02), Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-01), and Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01).

“My constituents in Central and Southern Illinois are already facing delays in service, and the Postmaster General’s plans to downsize USPS would only worsen the situation—leading to more missed paychecks, late bills, and even delays in essential medications,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “I was proud to bring forward bipartisan legislation to push back on this misguided effort that could further impact poor delivery rates for rural Americans. This bill not only seeks to prevent further deterioration in service but also ensures more transparency in USPS reforms while safeguarding local postal jobs.”

The Protect Postal Performance Act has received endorsement from the United Postmasters and Managers of America (UPMA), an organization advocating for the interests of postal workers and service reliability.

“UPMA is grateful for the bipartisan efforts of Rep. Budzinski and her colleagues in Congress to protect the workers of the postal service from service cuts that would negatively impact the quality of mail delivery received by the American people,” said Tony Leonardi, National President of UPMA. “The Protecting Postal Performance Act will help ensure evidence, data, and sound management practices lead the USPS’s strategy going forward and will ensure that any changes to retail and postal facilities in the future are fully vetted. Sound financial management of the Postal Service means a sustainable postal service—and UPMA will be a partner in ensuring that the organization follows the data to be the best service provider to the American people.”

Congresswoman Budzinski has been a strong advocate for preserving and improving mail service, particularly in rural areas. She has previously spoken out against privatization efforts and other proposals that could reduce service reliability for communities that depend on timely mail delivery. The Protect Postal Performance Act seeks to address ongoing concerns about delays and accessibility while reinforcing transparency and accountability within the USPS