SOUTH DAKOTA – A new federal audit has confirmed widespread mail delivery problems in South Dakota and recommends changes aimed at improving service across the state.
The audit was requested by U.S. Senator Mike Rounds and found that U.S. Postal Service cost-saving measures have significantly slowed mail delivery, forcing some South Dakota mail to travel through processing centers in other states before returning for delivery.
One recommendation calls for upgrading the Sioux Falls mail processing facility into a regional processing and distribution center. Postal Service officials say the change could keep more mail within South Dakota and reduce delivery times for some packages.
The audit also criticized the Postal Service for failing to adequately communicate how operational changes would affect South Dakota customers.
Rounds says the report validates concerns raised by residents over the past two years, particularly complaints involving delayed medications, newspapers, and other important mail.
Officials say improvements are planned, but some changes may not take effect until next year. In the meantime, voters are encouraged to mail absentee ballots early ahead of the November election.
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