114TH CONGRESS ORGANIZES
BOTH HOUSES NOW CONTROLLED BY REPUBLICANS
The 114th Congress has started to reorganize, with several key issues of concern to mail handlers likely to remain on the agenda during the next two years. Of most importance will be (1) the continuing debate over postal reform legislation and (2) attempts to reduce the costs associated with various benefit programs applicable to federal and postal employees.
The November 2014 mid-term elections confirmed and expanded the Republican Party’s majority in the House (at the increased level of 247-188), and also gave the Republican Party control of the U.S. Senate (by a margin of 54-46). Approximately 65 of the representatives installed into office this month are new to the Congress, and so significant changes are expected, including modifications on the major committees with jurisdiction over legislation relevant to the Postal Service and postal employees.
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MEGAN BRENNAN NAMED FIRST FEMALE POSTMASTER GENERAL
Last November, Postmaster General Patrick R. Donahoe announced that he is retiring effective February 1, 2015, after serving the Postal Service for more than 39 years. Although the NPMHU had some major differences with PMG Donahoe during the last few years, especially with regard to his efforts to downsize the Postal Service as a means of reducing costs, the NPMHU offers its sincere wishes to the PMG for a well-deserved retirement. Donahoe was an honorable partner in collective bargaining, both as PMG and during his prior service as Chief Operating Officer. Almost forty years after starting as an entry-level employee in Pittsburgh, PA, PMG Donahoe deserves our thanks and congratulations for his many years of service.
