Postal overhaul proposals now expected next week

House Government Reform Committee Chairman Tom Davis, R-Va., and Senate Governmental Affairs Chairwoman Susan Collins, R-Maine, originally had planned to introduce postal legislation by the end of April. But Collins acknowledged she would wait until next week to introduce her bill with Sen. Thomas Carper, D-Del.

Collins said the legislation is "still on track" and added Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., had told her postal change is a priority for the remainder of the session.

"I'm very pleased that he's committed to making this happen," said Collins, who is set to meet today with Carper for a final drafting session.

A House source familiar with Davis' bill said she expects legislation will not be introduced until early next week, but the Government Reform Committee is still planning to mark up the bill next Thursday.