September 24, 2024

Wyden, Merkley Demand Postmaster General DeJoy Reverse Decision Hurting Mail Services in Southern Oregon

Senators: “We share the grave concerns of the residents of Southern Oregon that this consolidation poses significant negative consequences for both our community and the efficiency of postal services in the region”

Washington D.C.— U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today demanded Postmaster General DeJoy immediately reverse his damaging position to relocate outgoing operations at the regional postal distribution center in Medford. 

“We share the grave concerns of the residents of Southern Oregon that this consolidation poses significant negative consequences for both our community and the efficiency of postal services in the region,” the senators wrote in a letter to DeJoy. “The Medford processing center plays a critical role in ensuring timely mail delivery for local residents, businesses, and government agencies. The consolidation of this facility has led to delays in mail delivery, affecting vital services like prescription deliveries, bill payments, and other essential communications.” 

Wyden and Merkley wrote that these changes land hardest on seniors, rural Oregonians and small businesses in the area who rely on prompt and reliable postal services. 

“Oregonians rely on the high-quality service provided by USPS, especially as a state that votes entirely by mail,” they wrote. “We are confident that, with thoughtful consideration, a solution can be found that both strengthens the Postal Service and supports the needs of local communities in Southern Oregon. Downgrading the Medford site is not that solution.”

The senators’ letter comes as the USPS Office of Inspector General issued a report that further illustrates Oregonians’ concerns as expressed by the senators’ letter about delays in first class mail deliveries. 

The full text of the letter is here.

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