USPS Subpoena Authority Act

This bill lets the U.S. Postal Service use administrative subpoenas more easily when investigating crimes that involve the mail. It allows USPS to demand records—and in most cases, testimony about those records—from companies or people who hold them. The bill covers mail-related crimes, including those tied to federal criminal law, scams flagged under postal law, and drug crimes that use the mail. It also makes clear that investigations involving certain false-mailing cases cannot require testimony. If passed, this could help USPS go after mail-based fraud, illegal drugs, and dangerous shipments more quickly.

It also narrows who inside USPS can approve these subpoenas to top legal leaders and the Chief Postal Inspector, aiming to keep tight oversight.

• Who is affected: People and businesses involved in mail-related investigations, including cases tied to controlled substances and hazardous materials sent through the mail.
• What changes: USPS can subpoena records and, in most cases, require testimony about those records; approval power is limited to specific senior USPS officials.
• When: These changes would take effect if the bill becomes law.