Price of postage proposed for increase
The U.S. Postal Service is recommending a two-cent increase for First-Class stamps that would raise the price to 46 cents. If the changes are approved by the Postal Regulatory Commission, they would go into effect on January 2nd, and would mark the first stamp increase in almost two years. The postal service is projecting a nearly $7 billion deficit next fiscal year. The postal price change is expected to raise about $2.3 billion in the first nine months.
The Postal Service is also introducing a new Forever Stamp that features images of four evergreen tree branches. The Holiday Evergreen Forever Stamps will be available to the public in October at the current rate of 44 cents. Once purchased, the stamps are valid forever, despite any future price changes.
The Postal Regulatory Commission is also considering a reduction in delivery frequency and is reviewing a plan to eliminate Saturday delivery. Concerns raised include effects on timely delivery of medication, food, water and other necessities.