U. S. Postal Service: Financial Crisis Demands Aggressive Action

Book excerpt: The U.S. Postal Service's (USPS) financial condition and outlook deteriorated significantly during FY 2009. USPS was not able to cut costs fast enough to offset declining mail volume and revenues resulting from the economic recession and changes in the use of mail, such as electronic bill payment. The USPS needs to restructure to improve its financial viability. Declines in mail volume and revenue, large financial losses, increasing debt, and financial obligations will continue to challenge USPS. This testimony provides: (1) info. on USPS's financial condition and forecast; and (2) the need for USPS restructuring. In addition, questions and issues are included for Congress to consider regarding USPS's proposal to reduce delivery from 6 to 5 days.