Rep. Scholten Introduces Postal Alert and Weather Preparedness Act to Modernize USPS Communications

WASHINGTON, DC - This week, U.S. Representative Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) introduced the Postal Alert and Weather Preparedness Act. The legislation would direct the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to conduct a study on providing electronic notifications to Postal Service customers regarding weather events and their effects on timely mail delivery.

"West Michiganders know how quickly severe weather can disrupt daily life, including something as essential as receiving your mail," said Rep. Scholten. "My Postal Alert and Weather Preparedness Act would take a commonsense step to modernize USPS communications so families can be better informed, plan ahead, and stay safe during inclement weather. This is about making sure our federal agencies are working smarter and more effectively for the people they serve."

Currently, USPS is not authorized to contact customers to inform them of mail delays or weather alerts, which has led towidespread confusion over delivery timelines during severe weather. This practical step would allow USPS to send electronic communications regarding delivery delays due to inclement weather or natural disasters, as well as advice to residents on clearing walkways to their homes during winter weather events.

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