Despite the federal government shutdown that took effect yesterday, the collection, processing, and delivery of U.S. mail will continue without interruption. The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) operates independently as a self-funded entity and is not reliant on annual appropriations from Congress.
Because the USPS generates its revenue through the sale of postage and postal products, rather than taxpayer funds, its operations are insulated from federal funding lapses. Post offices will remain open, and all postal employees will continue to report to work and receive their regular pay throughout the duration of the shutdown.
Impact on Other Federal Services
While the mail service is deemed essential and self-sufficient, the shutdown is affecting other federal functions.
Federal agencies that depend on annual congressional funding are generally closed, leading to a significant pause in non-essential government activities. This means that services that require staff to process paperwork, answer phones, or conduct inspections may be severely limited or unavailable.
The shutdown’s effect on various government operations will become more apparent as the funding lapse continues. However, the structure of the U.S. Mail system ensures that this essential service continues to operate normally, even as the broader federal government faces a funding crisis.
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