This bill provides states with the authority to name post offices located in the state. The bill makes exceptions with respect to federally named post offices.
If enacted, HB 195 would amend Title 39 of the United States Code to create a new section that empowers states to designate the names of post offices. This change would enable greater local control and could foster a sense of ownership and community identity associated with post office facilities. It is intended to streamline the naming process, allowing states to act independently of federal regulations in this specific area.
House Bill 195 aims to grant states the authority to name post offices located within their borders. Currently, the naming of post offices falls under federal jurisdiction, and this bill seeks to decentralize that power, allowing state legislatures to dictate the names of these facilities. The legislation was introduced by Mr. Rosendale and Mrs. Miller and is now referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, indicating its targeted oversight on federal operations at the state level.
However, there are limitations established in the bill, particularly regarding federally named post offices. For states to exercise this naming authority, they must adhere to notifications to Congress 30 days in advance if the name pertains to an already federally designated post office. Moreover, as stated in the bill, federal names supersede any state selections, indicating a continued federal oversight in contexts where state and federal interests may conflict.