[20190207]IF10489_国会邮戳：概述.pdf

https:/crsreports.congress.gov Updated February 7, 2019Congressional Franked Mail: OverviewBackground Official mail, sometimes referred to as “franked mail,” allows Members of Congress to transmit mail matter under their signature, or “frank,” without prepayment for postage. Members ability to send franked mail facilitates official communication between elected officials and their constituents. Although franked mail does not require prepayment of postage, Congress pays the U.S. Postal Service for the cost of franked mail in annual appropriations bills. Members use and the content of official mail is regulated by several sources, including federal law and chamber rules and regulations. Official communications sent as franked mail may include such items as letters in response to constituent requests for information, newsletters regarding legislation and Member votes, press releases about official Member activities, copies of the Congressional Record and government reports, and notices about upcoming town meetings organized by Members, among others. Member Mail Allowances Congress pays the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) for franked mail through annual appropriations for the legislative b