Advocating a Reliable, Affordable Postal System for Everyone
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has reported a significant loss of $9 billion for the fiscal year 2025, bringing its total losses to $25 billion over the past three years. This alarming trend has prompted the Coalition for a 21st Century Postal Service (C21) to call for immediate reforms to avert potential insolvency by 2028.
C21, which represents a diverse range of stakeholders in the $1.9 trillion postal-reliant industry, including mailers, shippers, and their supply chains, is urging collaboration with USPS leadership. The coalition comprises businesses of all sizes that collectively employ nearly 8 million people across the nation. They emphasize the importance of reforming the postal system to ensure its sustainability while also acknowledging the necessity for USPS to enhance its services and manage costs effectively.
David Steiner, the newly appointed Postmaster General, has expressed his commitment to implementing reforms by the end of the first quarter of 2026. C21 members have welcomed his urgency and are prepared to assist in developing strategies that benefit both the postal service and its customers.
“The USPS must engage with its customers—those who rely on it for delivering essential items like prescription medications, household goods, and important documents,” stated Art Sackler, Executive Director of C21. He highlighted that the current losses cannot be sustained through service reductions and increased prices without risking the service’s future viability, especially without congressional support.
C21 advocates for a model where USPS works closely with its business clients, who contribute approximately 90% of its revenue through postage charges. The coalition believes that these businesses possess valuable insights and expertise that can aid in expanding public-private partnerships essential for the postal system’s success.
The need for reform has become increasingly urgent as USPS continues to face financial challenges. The coalition warns that without genuine improvements, the USPS could lose its essential role in American society after serving for over 250 years. C21’s extensive network encompasses various sectors, including newspapers, magazines, e-commerce, and printing, all of which recognize the critical role of USPS in supporting their operations.
As the situation develops, stakeholders are calling for a collaborative approach that not only addresses the financial issues but also enhances service quality. The coalition’s commitment to working with USPS leadership highlights the potential for positive change, provided there is a willingness to listen and adapt to the needs of all involved parties.
For the future of the postal service and the millions of Americans who rely on it, the time for decisive action is now. C21 remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that USPS not only survives but thrives in a rapidly changing economic landscape.
