WASHINGTON— AARP today sent a letter urging Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer of the United States Postal Service (USPS) Louis DeJoy to suspend any changes to mail delivery operations that could compromise the health and safety of Americans and restrict safe participation in the upcoming elections. Today’s letter is a follow-up to a letter from May 14, in which AARP and a coalition with 19 other organizations called on congressional leaders to ensure that the USPS could continue to provide the vital mail delivery services that millions of older Americans and all Americans depend upon.

The full text of today’s letter, signed by Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer, is below:

AARP, on behalf of our 38 million members and all older Americans nationwide, has become increasingly concerned that recent changes in mail processing operations may be compromising the health and safety of millions of older Americans and may unduly restrict the ability of all Americans to safely participate in the upcoming elections, whether they choose to vote from home or in-person.

While AARP shares your goal of ensuring the United States Postal Service operates in an effective and efficient manner, we urge you to suspend any adjustments that could negatively affect service during the pandemic. Further, we urge the Postal Service to be more forthcoming and transparent regarding any changes, including a more detailed cost-benefit analysis of the operational changes you have made and will be making to assure timely delivery of all mail, including election-related mail.

The Postal Service has proven to be a lifeline for older Americans, especially those in rural communities, as well as those with medical conditions who are most at risk from the coronavirus. More than ever before, people are relying on the USPS to deliver their lifesaving prescription medications and other necessities, allowing them to remain safely at home. Americans with chronic conditions -- such as high blood pressure, diabetes and asthma -- who need prescription medicines on an ongoing basis are most at-risk if they contract the coronavirus.

Many Americans, especially those without internet access, have also long relied on the Postal Service to deliver vital information about their health and finances. Simply put, throughout this crisis, the Postal Service has demonstrated its vital role in American society – allowing people of all ages to stay home, stay informed, and stay safe.

While we agree with the Postal Service Board of Governors that additional financial assistance is needed, AARP believes that during this pandemic the health and safety of all Americans must be paramount.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Media Contact: Colby Nelson, cnelson@aarp.org, 202-706-8416