NE Missouri News

U.S. Representatives Sam Graves, Emanuel Cleaver, II, and Mark Alford have introduced the Pony Up Act in an effort to address late bill deliveries by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). The legislation aims to hold USPS accountable for late fees incurred by consumers due to delayed delivery services.

Congressman Graves expressed the frustration of his constituents, stating, “If the Postal Service can’t get their act together and get bills delivered on time, then they should pony up and pay the late fee.”

Congressman Cleaver highlighted the impact of late deliveries on families and businesses, attributing the issues to the failures of Postmaster General DeJoy and his Delivering for America Plan. He emphasized the need for constituents to be compensated for late fees resulting from inadequate mail service.

Congressman Alford emphasized the importance of USPS in rural communities and the need for the agency to fulfill its delivery obligations. He stated, “It is only fair that the Postal Service should reimburse taxpayers for late fees accrued due to USPS delays.”

The Pony Up Act would allow individuals who incur late fees due to delayed bill deliveries to file claims for repayment. The process can be completed online through a portal or in person at any post office. Additionally, the legislation would mandate a report on delayed mail to provide Congress with accurate information on USPS performance and average delays.

In recent years, Representatives Graves and Cleaver have raised concerns about USPS performance issues, including delays in mail delivery. They have called on Postmaster General DeJoy to address these issues and fulfill the agency's obligation to provide six-day mail delivery.

The legislators have also criticized USPS for price increases on stamps and demanded improvements in service quality before implementing further hikes. Their efforts reflect a commitment to ensuring that consumers are not unfairly burdened by late fees resulting from USPS shortcomings.