The U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Accountability held a meeting on December 31, 2024, focusing on the oversight of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and its modernization plans. A significant point of discussion was the impact of mail processing changes on residents in Western New York, particularly in Buffalo.

During the meeting, concerns were raised about the USPS's decision to route mail from Buffalo through a processing center in Rochester, over an hour and a half away. This change has led to fears of delays, especially during severe winter weather, which is common in the region. Representative questions highlighted that recent snowstorms had already disrupted travel and raised alarms about the timely delivery of critical items such as medications and bills.

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy responded to these concerns by stating that the original plan to consolidate mail processing would not affect Buffalo. He assured that mail would remain in Buffalo and that new practices would be implemented to ensure local turnaround times for outgoing mail.

Another topic of concern was the USPS's plan to deploy electric vehicles for mail delivery, particularly in rural areas. Representatives expressed worries that these vehicles might struggle in harsh winter conditions, potentially leaving residents without mail service. DeJoy addressed these concerns by explaining that the USPS has conducted extensive studies on route conditions and will deploy vehicles based on specific needs, including the use of four-wheel drive where necessary. He emphasized that emergency backup procedures are in place to mitigate any issues that may arise.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the USPS as it modernizes its operations while trying to maintain reliable service, especially in regions prone to severe weather. The committee's discussions reflect a broader concern about the balance between modernization efforts and the practical needs of communities across the country.