Encouraging Buy American Policies for the United States Postal Service

Jan 21, 2021

Summary

Urges the United States Postal Service to change its rules to give a bigger advantage to American-made goods when it buys things.

What problem does this solve?

The United States Postal Service's rules for buying American-made products are not as strong as those for other government agencies. This order encourages the USPS to update its purchasing rules to match the stricter federal standards, promoting consistency.

What does this order do?

Encourages USPS to adopt federal 'Buy American' standards

Strongly urges the United States Postal Service to consider changing its purchasing rules to match the stronger 'Buy American' standards used by other federal agencies.

Suggests specific rule changes

Asks the Postmaster General to consider updating rules about price advantages for U.S. products and how to determine if a product is made in a foreign country.

Reaffirms national 'Buy American' policy

States that it is the policy of the United States to maximize the use of goods, products, and materials produced in the country.

Who does this affect?

United States Postal Service
American manufacturers
Foreign suppliers to the USPS

What is the real world impact?

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Strengthens 'Buy American' initiatives

Promotes the use of American-made goods across the federal government by encouraging the USPS, a major purchaser, to adopt the same strong preferences as other agencies. This supports domestic manufacturers and jobs.

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May increase costs for the USPS

Forcing the USPS to prefer potentially more expensive American-made products could raise its operational costs. This might impact the agency's financial health or lead to higher prices for postal services.

When does this start?

This order establishes a timeline for the United States Postal Service to consider new purchasing rules.

USPS rule consideration deadline

Encourages the Postmaster General to consider new rules within 90 days of the Federal Acquisition Regulatory (FAR) Council issuing its final rule based on Executive Order 13881.