SENATE BILL: POSTAL REFORM IS NEEDED ACT (Passed)

[Devout Centrist]

Again, that assumes government banks cloaked in special authority is somehow good in the first place, which its not.

Postal banking would fill a clear need in so-called banking deserts, neighborhoods that lack adequate banking services. In these areas, payday loans providers control the lion's share of commercial loans; local residents lack access to everyday banking services. Obviously, there's risk for corruption and graft, but with proper oversight and auditing, this risk can be minimized.

Indeed, post offices used to provide savings accounts. They only ceased to do so in 1967, as demand for their services fell. Currently, there's a greater need for such services than in the past. The post office can step up and fill the gap.

Postal banking would work well in low income communities. Oftentimes, the poor are cash rich and lack means to save their income. This puts them at greater risk of theft or abuse by predatory lenders in the grey market.

Here's a link to a solid essay on the benefits of postal banking. There are definitely logistical problems that must be address before postal banking is introduced, but there's an argument for the post office providing banking services.

[Devout Centrist]

Broadly speaking, yes. The only difference is, banking deserts are served by payday loan establishments and paycheck advancement services instead.

[Devout Centrist]

Aye

[Devout Centrist]

I'm still concerned about ending Saturday delivery and allowing advertising on the side of postal vehicles. Would the sponsor accept an amendment that strikes those two provisions? I'd be willing to negotiate.

[Devout Centrist]

I'm still concerned about ending Saturday delivery and allowing advertising on the side of postal vehicles. Would the sponsor accept an amendment that strikes those two provisions? I'd be willing to negotiate.

Personally im fine amending the Saturday part. There are definite cost savings by switching to a 5 day week and it could be done on a work day to minimize the 2 day weekend gap, but II and IV are the most important parts I want as far as negotiations are concerned.

Hmm...Let me see if I can find any resources on postal volume during the week. Ideally, I think the day with the least average volume would be the best to consider eliminating. Perhaps Tuesday might fit the bill.

I have absolutely no problems with Sections II and IV. I support them in their current form.

[Devout Centrist]

Is Tuesday the one with the least volume?

No, that was just a hunch. I'm looking for more information on postal volume by weekday right now.

[Devout Centrist]

Why stop at this? Post office should be phased away and mail should be privatized. Very dishonest and service is MUCH worse than private companies. Currently on hold for 45 MINUTES AND COUNTING over a package that contains Benson medication that they say was delivered to mailbox but did not arrive. Not acceptable!

I apologize for your poor experience at the local post office, but that's hardly a sufficient argument for privatizing mail delivery and post offices.

[Devout Centrist]

Where are we at on this? Postal volume, Tmth concerns, etc?

The consensus seems to be that Tuesday and Friday are the lowest by mail volume.

[Devout Centrist]

Tuesday has the lowest mail volume overall. If we want to eliminate delivery on a day, it should probably be Tuesday.

[Devout Centrist]

Without objection from me

[Devout Centrist]

Aye

[Devout Centrist]

I motion for a final vote

[Devout Centrist]

Abstain