ATLANTA – Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff of Georgia is spearheading a movement in Congress to overhaul the process of selecting the U.S. postmaster general. In the wake of a mail-service breakdown in Georgia, Ossoff has introduced the Postmaster General Reform Act, which aims to give Congress more control over this crucial appointment.

Under Ossoff’s proposal, the U.S. Senate would be responsible for confirming a president’s appointment to the role of postmaster general. Currently, the postmaster general is appointed by the U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors without any input from Congress. The legislation would also establish term limits, allowing postmaster generals to serve a maximum of two five-year terms.

At a recent news conference, Ossoff criticized the leadership and management of the current postmaster general, citing the recent mail-service debacle in Georgia as evidence of incompetence at the highest levels.

Lawmakers from various states have voiced concerns about Louis DeJoy, the current postmaster general, and his handling of the Postal Service. With election officials across the country worried about the system’s readiness for a surge in mail-in ballots, Ossoff’s legislation comes at a critical time.

Georgia has faced delivery delays attributed to operational issues at a postal facility in suburban Atlanta. The consolidation of multiple facilities into one location was intended to streamline operations but has resulted in service disruptions and inefficiencies.

Similar consolidation efforts in other states have also encountered challenges, contributing to nationwide delivery slowdowns and financial losses for the Postal Service. The need for critical improvements in postal operations is evident, with Ossoff and other lawmakers pushing for accountability and better service for citizens.

Ossoff’s visit to the Palmetto facility in June highlighted the urgency of the situation, with a focus on the well-being of Georgia residents who rely on the postal service for essential deliveries. The senator’s call for bipartisan support for the Postmaster General Reform Act underscores the importance of this legislation in ensuring a more efficient and reliable postal system.

Georgians deserve a postal service that meets their needs and expectations. Ossoff’s efforts to hold the postmaster general accountable and improve the efficiency of the Postal Service are crucial steps towards achieving this goal.