S. 3536 is being considered on the floor under suspension of the rules and will require a two-thirds majority vote for passage. This legislation was introduced by Senator Thomas Carper (D-DE) on September 22, 2008. The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent on September 26, 2008.

S. 3536 is expected to be considered on the floor of the House on September 27, 2008.

S. 3536 allows the United States Postal Service to negotiate contracts for the transportation of international mail between any of the points in foreign air transportation.

Currently, the U.S. Department of Transportation regulates the price of air transport of international mail. The U.S. Postal Service continues to operate under financial strain and believes that they can reduce costs through competition for the air transport of international mail. The Post Office estimates that it can save up to $50 million as a result of this legislation. 

The U.S. Department of Defense also expects to realize savings from the enactment of this legislation because they reimburse the Postal Service for the transport of mail overseas.

The Congressional Budget Office has not issued a cost estimate for this legislation.

STAFF CONTACT

For questions or further information contact Brianne Miller at 6-2302.