Central Missouri News

U.S. Representatives Mark Alford, Emanuel Cleaver II, and Sam Graves have reintroduced the Pony Up Act, a legislative measure aimed at holding the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) accountable for late delivery of bills. The bill seeks to protect consumers by requiring USPS to cover any late fees incurred due to delayed mail services.

The legislation comes in response to numerous complaints from constituents about mail delays, which often result in late fees on bill payments. Congressman Alford emphasized the importance of USPS in rural communities and noted that "the USPS has failed to fulfill their Congressionally mandated six-day delivery window." He stated that it is fair for the Postal Service to reimburse taxpayers for these late fees.

Congressman Cleaver highlighted issues with USPS service exacerbated by extreme weather and criticized the Postmaster General’s Delivering for America Plan. He remarked that families and small businesses are frustrated with delays that cost them financially due to late bill deliveries.

"We need bipartisan action," said Congressman Cleaver, expressing his support for the Pony Up Act alongside Reps. Alford and Graves. Congressman Graves also voiced concerns over routine frustrations faced by constituents due to late mail delivery, stating that if USPS cannot deliver on time, they should be responsible for paying the associated late fees.

The proposed bill would allow individuals who incur a late fee because of delayed bill delivery to file a claim online or at any post office for repayment. Additionally, it mandates a report on delayed mail to provide Congress with accurate data on postal service effectiveness and average delays.

In September 2024, Alford, Cleaver, Graves, and other legislators urged USPS to implement audit recommendations from an OIG report concerning the Kansas City Processing & Distribution Center.

For media inquiries regarding Congressman Alford's involvement in this legislation, contact Lauren Hanemann at Lauren.Hanemann@mail.house.gov.