The United States Postal Service (USPS) is causing frustration among metro Atlanta residents due to delivery delays and inefficiencies. Chairman Michael Kubayanda of the Postal Regulatory Commission reported alarming issues with service performance, finances, and efficiency not only in Georgia but also in Virginia and Texas. In Atlanta, on-time delivery for first-class mail was only being met 36% of the time, exacerbating concerns as the upcoming election will rely heavily on mail-in ballots. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy attributed the ongoing issues to outdated infrastructure and chronic underfunding, emphasizing the need for modernization that should have been addressed long ago.
Despite challenges, DeJoy highlighted successes such as the new Palmetto facility’s increased processing capacity. However, delays at the facility were caused by relocating 2,000 employees and inbound transportation issues. Senators expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of preparations to avoid such delays during upgrades and renovations. Senator Jon Ossoff criticized DeJoy for not personally reading letters outlining concerns about postal delays, urging the Postmaster General to take specific steps to resolve the situation and improve service within 60 days. Senator Gary Peters also emphasized the need for more transparency and data-sharing to address ongoing issues effectively.