Maine Delegation Seeks Answers on USPS Failing to Pay Rockland-area Contractor More Than $349,000, Jeopardizing Mail Service for Maine Island Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Maine's Congressional Delegation is calling on the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to immediately resolve its payment issue with a Maine contractor that serves multiple island communities in the state. In a letter to Postmaster General David Steiner, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden requested clarification regarding reports that the USPS failed to pay the Rockland-based Penobscot Island Air (PIA) more than $349,000 for mail-delivery service. The Delegation also raised questions about why USPS has, according to PIA, repeatedly failed to make timely payments for several years. After PIA announced it would not make its scheduled deliveries this past Tuesday in protest, USPS agreed to pay 25% of the outstanding balance, and PIA promptly resumed service. Yet questions remain as to whether Penobscot Island Air can be assured that the remaining balance will be paid in full and in a timely manner.

"For decades, Penobscot Island Air has helped the USPS deliver essential mail to Maine's island residents. We urge you to immediately resolve the outstanding back payments and provide clarification on how these payment lapses occurred, as well as how delays can be prevented in the future," the Delegation wrote. "From Matinicus to Vinalhaven, island communities in Maine rely on the USPS to pay bills, receive life-saving medications, and stay connected with friends and family. Penobscot Island Air is an indispensable bridge between the mainland and islands that helps the Postal Service fulfill its promise of reaching every American, even in the most rural communities."

"While it is promising to hear that the USPS has reached a partial payment agreement to pay Penobscot Island Air about 25% of its outstanding balance, we need greater assurance from the USPS that Maine island contractors will receive fair and prompt compensation for the services they provide. We respectfully request detailed answers... and ask that USPS continue to work urgently with Penobscot Island Air to resolve these back payments immediately and ensure that future payment processing is timely and consistent," the Delegation concluded.

Click here for the complete text of the letter.

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