Double Postal Enforcement

GAO reviewed the Postal Service's (USPS) enforcement of the double postage rule that allows private carriers to deliver time-sensitive letters. GAO noted that: (1) the contract between the General Service Administration (GSA) and a private carrier to provide expedited delivery of letters and small parcels does not provide rates that satisfy the double postage rule at weights of 8 ounces or more and GSA will take corrective action if an audit of agencies' use of this carrier reveals that this is necessary; (2) USPS seldom uses legal action against violators primarily because persistent and clear-cut violations are difficult to establish and it depends on the Department of Justice for legal representation; and (3) for most contracts the provisions are generally in compliance with the double postage rule.