H.R. 765: Mandating Advisable and Informed Locations and Solutions Act

The Mandating Advisable and Informed Locations and Solutions Act (MAILS Act) aims to improve the communication and processes regarding the relocation and establishment of post offices by the United States Postal Service (USPS). Here are the key points of the bill:

Definitions

The bill defines several terms relevant to its operation:

• Post office: A facility owned or leased by the USPS, managed by a Postmaster, responsible for customer services, local delivery, and mail processing.
• Postal service: Refers specifically to the United States Postal Service.
• Temporary relocation: A temporary change of retail services from a post office, usually for holidays or special events.

Requests for New Post Offices

The bill mandates that the USPS establish a formal process, within 90 days of enactment, for local government officials to request the establishment of new post offices in their communities.

Communication Relating to Post Office Relocation

The USPS is required to make changes to its regulations concerning temporary relocations:

• Community input: The USPS must collect input from the community before implementing a temporary relocation that lasts longer than two days.
• Notification: The USPS must notify local elected officials at least 30 days before a temporary relocation. This includes discussing the proposal and providing written outlines. Additionally, public notice must be given at least 15 days prior to the relocation, followed by a public presentation.
• Periodic updates: The USPS has to provide status updates to local officials every 60 days regarding the temporary relocation, starting from the initial 30-day comment period until 60 days after the relocation ends.

Reporting Requirements

For any temporary relocation exceeding 180 days, the USPS must submit a report within 30 days to specific congressional committees and local representatives. The report must include:

• A discussion of whether the communication requirements were met and explanations for any failures.
• Clarification on whether the relocation period will be extended, along with justifications for any extensions.

Overall Purpose

The primary goal of the MAILS Act is to enhance transparency and communication between the USPS and local communities, ensuring that stakeholders are adequately informed and involved when changes to postal services occur.

Relevant Companies

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