The 2022 National Agreement expired six months ago, the negotiations which began in June of last year have yet to produce a tentative agreement, and the possibility of securing a negotiated agreement seems unlikely at best. While neither the Union nor the Postal Service have “officially” declared a bargaining impasse, everything we’re seeing appears to be pointing toward an arbitrated National Agreement.
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.
Those of us living in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, as well as those living in the surrounding metropolitan area, are currently dealing with some extreme circumstances. I'm at a loss for words to adequately describe the situation; so, I'll rely on the words of others. The Minneapolis Chief of Police has described the situation as unprecedented chaos, while a local faith leader has stated that America is experiencing a profound moral crisis which is playing out on the streets of Minneapolis.
We’ve seen our fellow citizens shot and killed, we’ve seen them dragged from homes that were forcibly entered, and we’ve seen young children taken into custody and quickly whisked away to detention facilities in other States. Every day we hear our coworkers and Brothers and Sisters in the Union speak of the difficulties they're experiencing just trying to live their lives and come to work.
2025 is drawing to its conclusion and it has been a year defined by struggle, accomplishment, and some significant successes. Of course, as the calendar turns to 2026 there will be issues remaining from this year that will need follow up. That is the natural consequence of continuing to pursue issues to their conclusion.
New Year’s Day marks only one hard fast change and that's the change to the Local Union’s Fiscal Year. Although, that alone places numerous tasks and deadlines on our horizon.
Peak season is upon us. At least, the peak season exception period set forth in the National Agreement. We have seen mail volume starting to increase, but the real surge in volume likely remains a week or two ahead.
Management has continued to hire MHAs and convert existing MHAs to career Mail Handlers. Consequently, the Mail Handler craft is heading into a peak season which is better staffed than in previous years. Also, management may employ an unlimited number of MHAs during this period.
It has now been more than 30 days since the 2022 National Agreement expired. At that time, we were informed that the Union and the Postal Service had agreed to extend the bargaining process. Since that last announcement we’ve heard nothing.
So, when should we expect to hear something? That’s a tough question to answer. Let’s look at the situation.
Your Local 323 MHBP marketing team has been recognized for outstanding performance and awarded Union of the Year for our efforts in promoting the 2025 Mail Handlers Benefit Plan. Pictures from the MHBP Seminar have been posted to the photo gallaries.
By the way, open season for health insurance is quickly approaching. An open season health fair will be held in the Postal facility where you work. Take a look at the Mail Handlers Benefit Plan and compare the rates with your current health plan. You will be amazed (really amazed) at how much you can save on the cost of your health insurance. Keep an eye on your bulletin boards for more information.
NEW - March 27, 2026
Contract Update #14Saturday, April 25, 2026
10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.
Local 323 Office
1602 Selby Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55104
(Steward Meeting 8:00 A.M.)
Saturday, May 2, 2026
11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.
Local 323 Office
1602 Selby Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55104
(Steward Meeting 9:00 A.M.)
Saturday, May 9, 2026
8:00 A.M. - 11:00 A.M.
Local 323 Office
1602 Selby Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55104
Monday, May 18, 2026
Sunday, July 12, 2026
10:30 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.
Como Park Pavilion
1199 Midway Parkway
St. Paul, MN 55103
