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119th Congress
Independent · Nonpartisan · Reader-supported
SENATES. 4505· 119th Congress

Require USPS to Create ZIP Codes for Underserved Communities

A bill to require the United States Postal Service to designate ZIP Codes for certain communities.

Sponsor
Joni Ernst (R-IA)
Introduced
May 12, 2026
Last Action
Aug 6, 2026
Passage
35%
Introduced
May 12, 2026
Committee
Aug 6, 2026
3
Floor Vote
4
Both Chambers
5
Enacted
01 — The Text

What.

  • Bill directs the U.S. Postal Service to designate new ZIP Codes for certain communities currently lacking them.
  • Requires USPS action on a matter typically handled through routine administrative process.
  • Specific communities targeted and implementation timeline not yet detailed in available summaries.
02 — The Stakes

So what?

  • Affects residents in underserved areas who may struggle with mail delivery, address clarity, or access to services tied to ZIP Codes.
  • Matters for small businesses, emergency services, and census/demographic tracking that rely on postal infrastructure.
  • Forces federal agency to prioritize specific communities; implementation costs and timeline unclear.
03 — The Path

Now what?

  • Passed committee in August 2026 with amendments; now on Senate calendar awaiting full floor debate and vote.
  • Next step: Senate consideration and vote, then would need House passage and presidential signature.
  • Track progress at Congress.gov or contact your senator's office to learn their position.
Legislative History

Actions.

  • Aug 6, 2026Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 546.
  • Aug 6, 2026Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. Reported by Senator Paul with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
  • Aug 6, 2026Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. Reported by Senator Paul with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
  • Aug 6, 2026Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
  • May 12, 2026Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
  • May 12, 2026Introduced in Senate