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Authority for Various Expenditures of the United States Postal Service

B-114874.30 Mar 03, 1976
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Highlights

A lawyer inquired concerning the authority of the United States Postal Service (USPS) to make various expenditures, specifically ones for advertising philatelic items and providing vending machines for the use of the public in United States Post Offices. USPS stated that advertising of stamps was meant to encourage stamp collecting and promote our national culture, natural wonders, achievements, etc. and focus attention on worthy causes and national concerns. Other advertising is meant to enhance customers' awareness of postal services. These activities are authorized by the Postal Reorganization Act. In light of the Act's specific provisions, GAO felt that USPS has the authority to advertise the sale of stamps to collectors. With regard to the vending machines, the Act also authorizes the expenditure of funds for placing equipment in post offices, specifically stating that USPS "shall emphasize the need for facilities and equipment designed to create...a maximum degree of convenience for efficient postal services." As postal related machines, GAO saw no basis on which to object to their use.

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