Central ND News

Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer, along with Representative Kelly Armstrong, announced today that Postmaster General Louis DeJoy has agreed to halt the implementation of the U.S. Postal Service’s (USPS) Mail Processing Facility Review (MPFR). This includes proposed changes to processing in Grand Forks and Bismarck, which will be paused until after January 1, 2025.

"We are pleased that the Postal Service has agreed to our request to pause proposals to change how mail is processed in Grand Forks and Bismarck," said the delegation. They further stated that they have repeatedly outlined community concerns regarding these proposals and emphasized the need for any processing changes to improve mail service for customers. "During the pause, we’ll continue pressing USPS to make sure any potential changes to mail processing in the future work for the local communities."

The delegation has consistently highlighted to USPS the potential impact of moving mail processing out of these local communities on timely mail delivery. In addition, Senators Hoeven and Cramer joined a bipartisan Senate effort last week urging USPS to halt the MPFR and conduct a comprehensive study on any potential MPFR changes. The full text of the senators’ letter can be accessed here.

This announcement is part of ongoing efforts by Senators Hoeven, Cramer, and Representative Armstrong to address concerns regarding delayed delivery of mail, packages, and newspapers as well as concerns about proposed changes to mail processing facilities.