e-Team Report, April 19, 2012

Amendments to S.1789

Dear APWU e-Team member,

Numerous amendments have been offered to S.1789 and debate has been plentiful. At last count there are 74 total amendments submitted for S.1789. These amendments cover the entire spectrum, as some are positive and helpful while others are very harmful to the future of the Postal Service.

Senator McCain (R-AZ) has introduced amendments to eliminate no layoff clauses in contracts, to permit an immediate reduction to 5-day delivery, to set up a commission on closing post offices, and to increase employee FEHBP and life insurance contributions. Senator Paul (R-KY) has proposed amendments that would end the Postal Service’s mailbox and first class mail monopoly, eliminate collective bargaining, and even a non-relevant amendment to end foreign aid to Egypt. Senator DeMint (R-SC) has introduced amendments to cut union dues and diminish union representation rights. Senator Coburn (R-OK) has offered amendments to require retirement eligible employees of the Postal Service to retire. He has also introduced an amendment that would allow the Postal Service to close unprofitable post office facilities. 

Along with all of the negative amendments are some positive amendments. Senator Akaka’s Amendment 2034 would prevent unfair and substantial cuts to government-wide Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) insurance benefits provided to injured federal workers. Senator Wyden’s (D-OR) amendment would require the Postal Service to consider the effect of closing or consolidating a postal facility on the ability of the affected community to vote by mail. Senator Manchin’s (D-WV) offered amendment would extend the moratorium on the closing and consolidation of postal facilities.

Please stay diligent in checking both your inbox for new e-Team alerts as well as the APWU’s Website for news updates.