ZOMBIE POLICY SHAMBLES UP AGAIN: Every so often some dimwit decides to push the idea that that paragon of efficiency, the US Postal Service, should run a business the private sector already provides adequately. In this case, it’s Senator Gillibrand who wants the USPS to provide retail banking services, including short-term loans with low fees and interest rates. There is a reason why the private sector has to charge high fees and interest rates for short-term unsecured loans, and it isn’t predation. But I’m sure the innovative and nimble minds at the USPS can square this circle easily without going broke on the taxpayer’s dime.

[UPDATE: A colleague points out to me that at least the USPS provides service on a unit price basis, rather than getting a lump sum from Congress, which actually makes it one of the more efficient parts of government. That says more about government efficiency in general than it does about the USPS, though…]