FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 30, 2023
The Save the Post Office Coalition is pleased to see our members work has moved USPS to modify their preferred alternative in the latest draft supplemental environmental impact statement (SEIS) from 10 percent to 62 percent battery-powered electric vehicles (BEV) in combined Next Generation Delivery Vehicles (NGDV) and commercial off the shelf vehicles (COTS) —however, this still falls short. As a public agency with the nation’s largest vehicle fleet, USPS should be doing much more to drive a just transition to a clean renewable energy economy. Indeed, the Postal Service’s own Inspector General has concluded that at least 95 percent of postal routes could be serviced by electric vehicles.
Today’s draft SEIS announcement is disappointing, particularly as it comes out of last summer’s hearing where USPS heard loud and clear from postal workers and communities in an overwhelming majority of public comments calling for a union-built, all-electric fleet. Frontline Black and Brown communities are being poisoned by heavy trucks with combustion engines, and mail carriers who drive postal trucks are particularly affected from vehicle idling which releases high levels of localized air pollution.
It’s not too late to stop this backward-looking, needlessly-polluting, and more expensive in the long run contract from moving forward in its current form. The Senate must confirm two Postal Board governors who commit to playing an active oversight role in fixing this contract. This is a once in a generation opportunity to invest in a sustainable future with sustainable vehicles and sustainable, union jobs for the next 10 plus years.
“We urge USPS to commit to 95 percent battery-powered electric vehicles, built with 100 percent union labor. With this multi-billion dollar investment in the nation’s largest civilian vehicle fleet, USPS has the opportunity and responsibility to ensure a cleaner future for postal workers, communities, and the planet.” said Annie Norman, of the Save the Post Office Coalition. “Furthermore, DeJoy should not be permitted to use federal funds to subsidize the egregious anti-union behavior of Oshkosh Defense.”
Last March, the USPS IG found that these zero emissions electric trucks would be cheaper for the USPS over the full life cycle of the fleet–costing less to buy, fuel, and maintain than conventional fossil-fuel powered vehicles. Workers are ready and eager to build and maintain a modern, pollution-free Postal Service fleet. From manufacturers to service mechanics to electricians who would install charging infrastructure, union labor can deliver a zero emission USPS fleet.
The new draft Supplemental EIS will be open for public comment until August 14, 2023, with a public hearing scheduled for July 26. The Save the Post Office Coalition urges members and the public to submit comments to NEPA@usps.gov and attend the public hearing.
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