U.S. Representatives Sam Graves, Emanuel Cleaver II, and Mark Alford have reintroduced the Pony Up Act, aiming to hold the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) accountable for late bill deliveries. Initially introduced in the 118th Congress, this legislation seeks to protect consumers by requiring USPS to cover any late fees incurred due to delayed delivery of bills.
The proposal comes after numerous complaints from constituents about mail not arriving on time or at all. Congressman Graves expressed frustration with USPS's performance, stating, “Constituents across my district are routinely frustrated by late mail delivery and they should be—the Postal Service isn’t getting the job done.”
Congressman Cleaver highlighted issues exacerbated by extreme weather and criticized the Postmaster General’s Delivering for America Plan. He noted that these delays cost families and small businesses money through late fees. "We need bipartisan action to ensure these costs are not levied on hardworking Americans," he said.
Congressman Alford emphasized the importance of USPS services for rural communities and argued that taxpayers deserve reimbursement for late fees caused by USPS delays.
The bill proposes a system where individuals can file claims online or at post offices for repayment of late fees resulting from delayed mail delivery. It also mandates a report on mail delays to provide Congress with data on USPS effectiveness.
In recent years, Reps. Graves and Cleaver have voiced concerns about USPS performance issues, including a letter sent in October 2022 to Postmaster General DeJoy regarding unmet six-day delivery obligations. Despite responses citing regional unemployment challenges, lawmakers continue pressing for solutions.
An audit conducted last year by the USPS Office of Inspector General examined mail delays in Kansas City following pressure from legislators. In early 2024, lawmakers urged USPS to halt stamp price increases until service improvements were demonstrated.
Further actions included calls for audits of processing centers and addressing absentee ballot delivery issues as well as recommendations from OIG reports.
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