LEGISLATIVE REPORT--by June Brandt
Since Congressional action on Postal reform has failed this year,
there is growing support
for a presidential commission on the future of the USPS. President Bush, however,
hasn't made a final decision on this. A decision is unlikely until after the November
Congressional elections, when the political shape of the new Congress is better known.
Some Postal observers predict that a Republican House and Senate could be much more
receptive to legislation with recommendations of a Bush-appointed Postal commission.
NAPS,
which previously opposed the
establishment of a presidential
commission, has now adopted a neutral stance on the commission concept.
The upcoming Congressional elections are nearly a month away -- with
control of both the House and Senate at stake. The House and the Senate have rarely been
so closely divided, making political involvement critical as NAPS members and citizens.
With redistricting you may be in a new district or facing unfamiliar candidates. Be aware
of who is running in your area and what their views are, particularly on issues of concern
to us as Postal employees. Whatever political party you favor, some un-Hatched ways
to get involved are:
Attend candidate forums and debates - question the candidates on the
future of the Postal Service and their views on Postal reform. Use these opportunities to
educate the candidates about the Post Office, not merely to find out where they stand.
Volunteer to help in the campaigns of a candidate: As campaigns
come down to the wire, they'll need the help of more volunteers. Any involvement expands
the visibility of NAPS and Postal employees in the political process. Be sure to do all
your campaign work off-duty and away from Postal premises, as the Hatch Act requires.
Make a contribution to SPAC
-- our NAPS national political war-chest. Every little bit counts! We don’t have
nearly the financial resources of our competitors on Capitol Hill, and lobbying does make
a difference! EASIEST AND MOST IMPORTANT: VOTE!!!! Take a few minutes on November 5 and
vote for the candidate of your choice. Polls are open 7AM-8PM |
