USPS Plans Postmark Date Changes Affecting Mail-In Ballot Timing

Recent changes at the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) are impacting how postmarks are applied to mail, especially affecting voters who rely on timely postmarks for mail-in ballots. USPS has proposed that the postmark date may not necessarily align with the date the mail was dropped off or accepted by the postal service, due in part to less frequent mail pickups in areas more than 50 miles from regional processing centers. This has raised concerns in states like California, where ballots must be postmarked by Election Day to count, prompting officials to urge voters to submit ballots earlier or use alternative methods such as official drop boxes or in-person delivery. Meanwhile, in Lancaster County, USPS reassured voters that mail-in ballots lacking correct postage will still be delivered to election offices, addressing voter confusion and ensuring ballots are counted. Election officials across regions are emphasizing the importance of early ballot submission and providing guidance to mitigate potential delays or issues caused by USPS operational changes.