Saxton Introduces Bill for Mail Delivery for Seniors

Saxton Introduces Bill for
Mail Delivery for Seniors

WASHINGTON, D.C. - With the U.S. Congress poised to consider postal reform legislation, Congressman Jim Saxton today introduced a bill to require the U.S. Postal Service to deliver mail to the homes of senior citizens living in age-restricted developments.
"There’s a good chance postal reform may be taken up in the 109th Congess, and I want to make sure this bill is on the table," Saxton said.
Saxton has advocated legislation to require the U.S. Postal Service to deliver mail directly to seniors’ door steps. His bill, introduced on the House floor last night, is H.R. 1475.
"Seniors who have to walk to get their mail can put their health at risk," said Saxton (NJ-3rd). "Icy walkways, curbs, leaves and snow pose dangers for seniors who are less mobile. One slip can lead to severe disability. It can end their independent living at home."
Saxton’s bill directs that housing facilities intended for seniors age 55 and up with at least 80 percent occupancy of seniors 55 and older to be serviced with door-to-door delivery. The postal service would plan its own means of implementation. Delivery would be required within six-months of enactment of the law.
The increasing popularity of senior communities in New Jersey and across the country means more and more seniors will be denied daily access to send or receive letters, pay their bills and do other business conducted through the mail.
"Daily mail can be a main source of communication with the outside world for older Americans," he said. "Mail order medicine, shopping, paying bills and other business is often done by mail."
As folks get older, they can have physical limitations that keep them from outdoor activities, particularly during inclement weather, Saxton said.
Senior citizens in the congressman’s Third Congressional District came up with the idea, and Saxton wants policy-makers at the Postal Service to consider their needs.