Representative Pete Sessions (R-TX) led a briefing with fellow Texan Members of Congress alongside officials from the United States Postal Service (USPS) in an effort to combat mail delays in the Lone Star State.
Since January, U.S. Representatives from Texas have received complaints from their constituents as their mail has experienced major hold-ups and misplacements.
The briefing was held in Missouri City, Texas at the South Houston Local Processing Center.
“Today’s discussion with USPS officials investigated challenges caused by the Delivering for America plan in the Houston area. Our conversation centered on next steps for meaningful improvement to USPS operations,” said Rep. Sessions, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations and the Federal Workforce. “These challenges to our postal system are not only found in Texas, but are affecting Americans nationwide. I’m thankful to my colleagues who joined me today and their demonstrated commitment to resolving these delays and ensuring reliable postal services for all.”
The bipartisan event included appearances from Democrats such as Representatives Al Green (D-TX) and Sylvia Garcia (D-TX).
Rep. Green stated that the delays have been due to a lack of transparency from the USPS.
“I thank Chairman Sessions for his coming to Houston to look into the issues associated with mail delays,” said Congressman Al Green. “I’m also thankful to Congresswoman Garcia for her participation. Issues associated with delays have been exacerbated by the lack of transparency and an unwillingness by USPS to address the public and the press. As a result, Congresswoman Garcia and I are submitting written questions to USPS such that we may make an informed decision as to whether a request should be made for a formal congressional hearing. Our questions may be found online at https://algreen.house.gov.”
Rep. Garcia said the answers to the problems Texans face regarding their mail are “long overdue.”
“Today’s discussion made clear that our frustration is getting results, and we are starting to get answers that are long overdue,” said Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia. “I thank my colleagues for bringing our staffs together to perform the oversight that our constituents deserve. Make no mistake, we will keep coming back until we know USPS can actually deliver for our communities wherever they are at, and do it on time.”
Last month, Representative Troy Nehls (R-TX) added his thoughts.
“The United States Postal Service’s mission is to provide prompt, reliable, and efficient mail services to the American people,” said Congressman Nehls. “However, the folks of TX-22 have experienced issues with the Missouri City USPS sorting facility since November, with no resolve. We cannot have Veterans and elderly constituents waiting months for prescription medications that keep them in good health. These delays are completely unacceptable. I look forward to hearing the Postmaster General’s plan to address this serious situation.”
The USPS is headed by Postmaster General Louis DeJoy.
