Subcommittee on Government Operations Chairman Pete Sessions (R-Texas) opened a hearing on mail theft and the United States Postal Service's (USPS) response. The hearing, titled "An Update on Mail Theft and Crime," addressed the increasing prevalence of mail theft and its impact on Americans.
In his remarks, Chairman Sessions emphasized the importance of supporting USPS efforts to combat theft and protect mail carriers. He noted that mail theft is a common concern among constituents and highlighted the role of the Postal Inspection Service's Project Safe Delivery in addressing these issues.
Sessions pointed out a significant rise in letter carrier robberies, with an 845 percent increase from 2019 to 2023. He stressed that Congress must ensure USPS is effectively responding to these threats to maintain trust in the postal system.
"Mail theft creates distrust in the Postal Service’s entire system, resulting in fewer people using the mail," said Sessions. Addressing this issue is crucial for USPS's goal of self-sufficiency.
The hearing aimed for a bipartisan approach, with Mr. Mfume and Mr. Frost also participating. Sessions expressed optimism about finding solutions rather than engaging in political fights.
