February 2026 Update
The turmoil enveloping the communities within the Twin Cities metropolitan area appears to be subsiding. This is not to say that it has ended or that there has been some type of return to normal; rather, what we are seeing could probably be described as a noticeable decrease in intensity. Several Mail Handlers and MHAs are still experiencing difficulties, many are dealing with the aftermath, and your Union continues to process grievances regarding specific issues.
While the situation seems to have improved, we must continue to support our Brothers and Sisters who are still experiencing difficulties. I’ve heard several stories of our Union family binding together to help each other under some very difficult circumstances; and whether those stories involved arranging carpools to commute safely to work, assisting with childcare, or assembling groups to safely grocery shop, the unity displayed by the Members of Local 323 has been nothing short of inspirational.
It is my hope that our communities will continue to heal as the year progresses.
Another hope is that some progress can be made on our next contract soon. Those who read the recent Contract Update #13 know that the most recent bargaining session between the Union and the USPS occurred on February 11, 2026. You also know that the unresolved issues concern general wage increases (raises), Cost of Living Allowances (primarily proportional COLA), night shift differential, and (the too low) MHA wage rates.
What can we conclude from the situation? The Postal Service has put an economic package on the table that the Union found to be insufficient. Your Union is telling the Postal Service that you must pay Mail Handlers more, that you must pay MHAs more, and that you must eliminate proportional COLA. The answer from the Postal Service is this: No, we don’t want to.
With each day that passes the chances of achieving a negotiated agreement are getting slimmer. It’s not impossible yet, but we might want to start preparing ourselves for the long battle of arbitration. That’s not my preferred outcome, but if the Postal Service is unwilling to pay Mail Handlers and MHAs what they’re worth, that’s where we’re going next. Time will tell.
JL