House Government Reform Subcommittee on Civil Service reorganization sent to full committee legislation (H.R.1231) has been approved. This allows Postal Federal and Military retirees to pay health insurance premiums on a pre-tax basis, like active Postal and Federal employees. This Bill is expected to reach full committee and pass.

Letter Carriers are at risk by the recommendations of the Postal commission. These recommendations which were reported to Bush and Congress on July 31 could render Postal employees second class citizens.

The Commission proposed many changes which would change your world as Postal employees.   So, as you see, we are headed towards a battle.  Some recommendations are positive by the Commission: give the Postal Service pricing flexibility, mail box monopoly, retaining universal services, and simplifying the employee grievance process.

I attended a National RAP session from September 5th - 7th and received the final report of the President's commission on the U.S. Postal Service and What it Means for NALC. It was a chance to prepare, educate, and motivate members to meet the challenges facing the USPS and strengthen the union membership for the Political battles ahead. The Summary of the Report is presented on pages 5 -8 of this newsletter. I suggest you read them.

As a legislative activist, it is my duty to keep you informed and prepare you to tackle the Postal reform issues. It will be your duty to apply pressure to Congress for legislative change that will be instrumental to the Postal service and the American people.

The Commission's objective is to examine the U.S. Postal Service and to prepare and submit to the President a report articulating a vision for the future of the USPS and to recommend the legislative and administrative steps necessary to enact reform in the Postal service. The Commission is important. But it’s just a report- one voice among many important voices.

The Political impact of the Commission report will require more legislative involvement by all of our Union Brothers and Sisters and a Coalition for Postal Reform. I can not do this alone, but can do this with you. As you all know, the August 2003 Postal Record indicated a video will be sent to all Letter Carriers. I ask each one of you take the time to view this message, and help shape our Postal future, and protect Carrier jobs.

Please take the time to contact your Senate and Congress leaders NOW...

DIANA CHAVEZ

NALC Branch 782 Legislative Liaison

Senators

Dianne Feinstein (D) Barbara Boxer (D)

331 Hart Senate Office Building 112 Hart Senate Office Building

Washington, DC 20510 Washington, DC 20510

Representatives

Calvin M. Dooley (D-20) William M. Thomas (R-22)

1201 Longworth HOB 2208 Rayburn HOB

Washington, DC 20510 Washington, DC 20515