Washington, DC: Congressman Ron Paul wants constituent mail delivered to Capitol Hill more quickly, so that his office can provide better service to the people he represents. The House implemented new mail-handling procedures after September 11th, resulting in very slow mail service for member offices.

“My office prides itself on first-rate constituent service, and it’s frustrating to hear from people in the district who sent a letter months ago that we still have not received,” Paul stated. “Since the anthrax scare last fall, mail delivery to House offices has slowed to a crawl. In fact, my office is still getting mail from Christmas! This delay acts as a barrier to effective representation, because constituents cannot have concerns addressed quickly. My office has adapted by using email and faxes whenever possible, but regular mail remains the first choice for many constituents.”

Paul is petitioning the House Administration committee to allow members to opt out of the new irradiation procedures responsible for the lengthy delays. His letter to the committee chairman argues that many House and Senate offices already bypass the new system by having mail sent directly to district offices, without experiencing problems.

“Members need to respond to constituent mail quickly, and we cannot do that with the current system,” Paul concluded. “The House needs to explore alternative methods of getting mail to members, or constituent service will continue to suffer. Congress must be representative, and a bunker mentality prevents constituents from being heard.”

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