Now that you know the laws that govern postage rates, what is the process……
- USPS: The process begins internally when the USPS builds a rate case
- Board of Governors Approval: The proposal is presented to the USPS Board of Governors to review and approve the proposed price adjustments and classification changes.
- Official Filing (90-Day Notice): By law, the Postal Service must file a formal notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) at least 90 days before the intended effective date of any price change for Market Dominant products.
- PRC Review Period (45 Days): Upon filing, the PRC has 45 days to review the proposal to ensure it complies with the “price cap” and other legal requirements.
- Public Comment Opportunity: Shortly after the USPS files, the PRC opens a public docket and provides a window (typically 20-30 days) for stakeholders and the general public to submit comments.
- PRC Final Determination: If the PRC finds the rates are legally compliant, it issues an order approving the changes. If not, it can remand the proposal back to the USPS for correction.
- Implementation: Once approved and the full 90-day notice period has elapsed, the new rates go into effect
