Proposal to reduce mail delivery raises concerns in Hawaii

U.S. Senators Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii) and Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii) joined colleagues today in urging the Postal Regulatory Commission to hold field hearings in Hawaii and Alaska on a Postal Service proposal to reduce mail delivery to five days a week.

Image courtesy: USPS

Concerns raised include effects on timely delivery of medication, food, water and other necessities.

The Commission has said that the nationwide elimination of Saturday mail delivery service is one of the most significant changes ever proposed for the Postal Service. The Commission already announced hearings on the proposal in Las Vegas, Sacramento, Dallas, Memphis, Chicago, Rapid City and Buffalo.

The senators said in a letter today to Ruth Y. Goldway, Chairman of the Commission, that mail delivery is unique in Hawaii and Alaska, where residents depend on it for “basic and necessary items.”

“It is extremely important, therefore, that you are fully informed about the impact of this proposal on our constituents and to the efficiency and effectiveness of the Postal Service on our states,” according to the senators’ letter.