Task Force on the United States Postal System
Apr 18, 2018
Signed by: Donald Trump
Signed on: Apr 12, 2018
Published on: Apr 18, 2018
Apr 18, 2018
Signed by: Donald Trump
Signed on: Apr 12, 2018
Published on: Apr 18, 2018
Summary
Creates a group to study the U.S. Postal Service's money problems and suggest ways to make it financially stable without needing help from taxpayers.
What problem does this solve?
The U.S. Postal Service is losing billions of dollars and cannot pay for its retired workers' health care, which could lead to it needing a taxpayer bailout. This order creates a special task force to study the USPS's finances and business operations and recommend reforms to make it self-sufficient.
What does this order do?
Establishes a task force
Creates a new group, the Task Force on the United States Postal Service, to study the postal system's operations and finances.
Evaluates USPS business model
Requires the task force to study the USPS's role in package delivery, the impact of declining mail volume, and the definition of its required services.
Develops recommendations for reform
Directs the task force to create suggestions for new rules and laws to improve the postal system without passing costs to taxpayers.
Requires a report to the President
Mandates that the task force submit a report with its findings and recommendations to the President within 120 days.
Defines task force leadership
Appoints the Secretary of the Treasury to lead the task force, which also includes the heads of the Office of Management and Budget and the Office of Personnel Management.
Who does this affect?
- United States Postal Service employees and retirees
- Businesses using USPS for shipping
- Residents in rural communities
What is the real world impact?
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Prevents a taxpayer bailout
Aims to create a sustainable business model for the USPS to fix its large financial losses and avoid needing taxpayer money to stay open.
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Re-evaluates universal mail service
Opens the door to changing the basic services the USPS must provide, which could mean reducing mail delivery days or closing post offices in rural areas to save money.
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Changes package delivery pricing
Could lead to higher prices for shipping packages. This might affect large online shopping companies and customers who depend on the USPS for affordable shipping.
When does this start?
This order takes effect immediately and sets a deadline for the task force to submit its report.
Task force report submission
The task force must submit a report with its findings and recommendations to the President no later than 120 days after April 12, 2018.