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Aug 20, 2020
More than 110,000 AARP Members Petition Postmaster General to Suspend Any Changes that Could Disrupt Mail Delivery During Pandemic

WASHINGTON—Today AARP delivered a petition from 111,717 members, gathered in just two days, to the Postmaster General, calling for the suspension of any changes to mail delivery operations during the pandemic. Millions of older adults rely on the United States Postal Service (USPS) to deliver life-saving medications, health and financial information and absentee ballots—and the coming elections will not end their reliance on timely deliveries.

“Now more than ever, Americans 50-plus rely on the Postal Service to deliver their lifesaving prescription medications and other necessities,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer. “The Postal Service has proven to be a lifeline during the pandemic, especially for those in rural communities and with chronic conditions who are most at risk from the coronavirus. We must stay vigilant to protect the needs of Americans over 50 and their caregivers.  Their needs won’t end on Nov. 3 and are particularly important during the pandemic.

The full text of the petition reads:

“I urge you to suspend any changes that could negatively affect service during the pandemic. 

“Now more than ever, changes may compromise the health and safety of millions of older Americans. The USPS is a lifeline, especially for those in rural communities, because it delivers lifesaving prescription medications and other necessities and allows vulnerable Americans to stay safely at home.  

“I am also concerned that changes to USPS may restrict Americans from safely participating in the upcoming elections, whether they choose to vote from home or in-person.
  
“During this pandemic, the health and safety of all Americans must take priority.”

Earlier this week, AARP sent a letter urging Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer of the 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. 

In May, 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.

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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.

For further information: Colby Nelson, cnelson@aarp.org, 202-706-8416