Hardcopy Postage Statements Discontinued, 24912-24916 [2023-08620]
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24912
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 79 / Tuesday, April 25, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
apply. Entry into the zones is prohibited
unless authorized by the Captain of the
Port Sector Corpus Christi (COTP) or a
designated representative. A designated
representative is a commissioned,
warrant, or petty officer of the U.S.
Coast Guard assigned to units under the
operational control of USCG Sector
Corpus Christi.
(2) Persons or vessels desiring to enter
or pass through the zones must request
permission from the COTP Sector
Corpus Christi on VHF–FM channel 16
or by telephone at 361–939–0450.
(3) If permission is granted, all
persons and vessels shall comply with
the instructions of the COTP or
designated representative.
(d) Information broadcasts. The COTP
or a designated representative will
inform the public through Broadcast
Notices to Mariners (BNMs), Local
Notices to Mariners (LNMs), and/or
Marine Safety Information Bulletins
(MSIBs) as appropriate of the
enforcement times and dates for these
security zones.
Dated: April 19, 2023.
J.B. Gunning,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the
Port Sector Corpus Christi.
[FR Doc. 2023–08720 Filed 4–24–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9110–04–P
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
Patent and Trademark Office
37 CFR Parts 1 and 41
[Docket No. PTO–P–2023–0005]
RIN 0651–AD66
Reducing Patent Fees for Small
Entities and Micro Entities Under the
Unleashing American Innovators Act
of 2022
Correction
Rule document C1–2023–05382,
appearing on page 19862, beginning in
the first column, in the issue of
Tuesday, April 4, 2023, is hereby
withdrawn.
In rule document 2023–05382,
appearing on pages 17147–17159, in the
issue of Wednesday, March 22, 2023,
make the following corrections:
■ On page 17157, in the first column, in
instruction 8, the table heading for
Table 3 to Paragraph (a)(1)(i)(C) and the
table heading for Table 4 to Paragraph
(a)(1)(ii) are corrected to read as follows:
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1
■
§ 1.445 International application filing,
processing and search fees. [Corrected]
(a) * * *
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(1) * * *
(i) * * *
(C) * * *
TABLE 3 TO PARAGRAPH (a)(1)(i)(C)
*
*
*
(ii) * * *
*
*
TABLE 4 TO PARAGRAPH (a)(1)(ii)
*
*
*
*
*
[FR Doc. C2–2023–05382 Filed 4–24–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 0099–10–D
POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
Hardcopy Postage Statements
Discontinued
Postal ServiceTM.
Final rule.
AGENCY:
ACTION:
The Postal Service is
amending Mailing Standards of the
United States Postal Service, Domestic
Mail Manual (DMM®) in various
sections to discontinue the use of
hardcopy postage statements for
domestic commercial mailings.
DATES: Effective: January 28, 2024.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Michael Filipski at (312) 765–3089 or
Garry Rodriguez at (202) 268–7281.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On
February 13, 2023, the Postal Service
published a notice of proposed
rulemaking (88 FR 9218–9221) to
discontinue the use of hardcopy postage
statements for domestic commercial
mailings. In response to the proposed
rule, the Postal Service received 16
comments as follows:
Comment: Multiple comments stated
eliminating hardcopy postage
statements would make it so we cannot
submit bulk mailings any longer.
Response: The Federal Register
Notice proposed rule provided that
Postal Wizard® and the Intelligent
Mail® Small Business Tool (IMsb) are
free and simple electronic
documentation solutions available to all
customers through the Business
Customer Gateway, and that third-party
software and mail preparation options
are also available on the PostalPro
website. In addition, all business mail
entry unit (BMEU) employees are
trained to assist customers with this
transition.
Comment: The USPS should improve
communications to the field,
specifically requiring local postmasters
where Periodical mail is entered to hold
in-person meetings with mailers no later
than 180 days before any
implementation date of this proposal.
SUMMARY:
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Response: Postal Service BMEU
employees and managers began reaching
out to customers and meeting with them
well over a year before the date where
we intend to no longer accept hardcopy
postage statements. These efforts
include weekly informational sessions
on using the Intelligent Mail for Small
Business Tool and Postal Wizard as well
as targeted outreach to individual
customers ensuring they know how to
use the free electronic documentation
options and which third part solutions
are available. Internal information
sessions and material is continually
provided to all BMEU staff and
postmasters to ensure they are aware of
the changes and can decipher this
information to our customers.
Comment: I do not have a computer
and cannot submit my postage
statement electronically.
Response: BMEUs where you
currently bring your hardcopy statement
will assist you with submitting a
statement electronically.
Comment: Eliminating hardcopy
postage statements will create an issue
for mailers who mail non-identical
pieces and must submit a hardcopy
manifest.
Response: Postal Wizard, which is
free electronic documentation software
available on the Business Customer
Gateway, allows for non-identical pieces
as do many third-party options listed on
PostalPro. The hardcopy manifest that
must be accompanied with such a
mailing will still be accepted; this FRN
only covers postage statements
themselves and does not prohibit
hardcopy manifests.
Comment: The transition period
should be continued through 2025.
Response: The Postal Service has
ensured the local BMEUs have
encouraged mailers to transition to
electronic documentation for several
years and official notice was provided
11 months prior to this transition. Given
this and that there are various free and
easy options to submit electronic
documentation, the Postal Service
believes January 2024 is sufficient time
for hardcopy mailers to transfer.
Comment: The USPS should rapidly
enhance the available of service data for
newspaper mail. Better visibility.
Response: This comment is beyond
the scope of this FRN. However, the
Postal Service is exploring visibility
enhancements for all our products.
The Postal Service is discontinuing
the use of hardcopy postage statements
to improve efficiency by expediting the
acceptance of commercial mail. Except
for Electronic Verification System
(eVS®) mailings, all domestic
commercial mailings must use an
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 79 / Tuesday, April 25, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
approved electronic method to transmit
a postage statement to the PostalOne! ®
system.
The Postal Service provides free
means of electronic postage statement
submission through the Intelligent Mail
for Small Business (IMsb) tool and
Postal Wizard. There are also approved
third party software options available on
PostalPro at postalpro.usps.com.
The use of hardcopy postage
statements for Every Door Direct Mail—
Retail® (EDDM–R®) and international
mailings will not be affected by this
revision.
We believe this revision will provide
customers with a more efficient mailing
experience.
The Postal Service adopts the
following changes to Mailing Standards
of the United States Postal Service,
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM),
incorporated by reference in the Code of
Federal Regulations. See 39 CFR 111.1.
We will publish an appropriate
amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to reflect
these changes.
* * * The total additional postage
must be paid by advance deposit
account.
*
*
*
*
*
243
Prices and Eligibility
3.0 Standardized Documentation for
First-Class Mail, Periodicals, USPS
Marketing Mail, and Flat-Size Bound
Printed Matter
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
3.2 Format and Content
For First-Class Mail, Periodicals,
USPS Marketing Mail, and Bound
Printed Matter, standardized
documentation includes:
*
*
*
*
*
e. * * * For Periodicals mailings,
documentation also must provide:
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete the last sentence of item e4.]
*
*
*
*
*
Commercial Mail First-Class Mail
Administrative practice and
procedure, Postal Service.
Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is
amended as follows:
*
*
PART 111—[AMENDED]
2.0 Affixing Postage to Presorted and
Automation Letters and Flats
*
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR
part 111 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C. 301–
307; 18 U.S.C. 1692–1737; 39 U.S.C. 101,
401–404, 414, 416, 3001–3018, 3201–3220,
3401–3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3629, 3631–
3633, 3641, 3681–3685, and 5001.
2. Revise the Mailing Standards of the
United States Postal Service, Domestic
Mail Manual (DMM) as follows:
■
Mailing Standards of the United States
Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual
(DMM)
*
*
*
*
*
200 Commercial Letters, Flats, and
Parcels
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
234 Postage Payment and
Documentation
■
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(NOTE: Except for Every Door Direct
Mail—Retail, all commercial references
to ‘‘postage statements’’ in the DMM are
electronic.). * * *
*
*
*
*
*
[Delete 1.3, Facsimile Postage
Statements, in its entirety.]
*
*
*
*
*
230
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
*
*
*
*
2.1 Affixing Postage for Presorted and
Automation First-Class Mail
Except as permitted under 2.2 or
authorized by the director, Business
Acceptance Solutions, each piece must
bear the numerical value of postage
under one of these conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the last sentence of item b to
read as follows:]
b. * * * Additional postage must be
paid at the time of mailing with an
advance deposit account.
2.2 Affixing Postage at Less Than Full
Price to All Pieces
*
*
*
*
*
*
2.2.1 Lowest Price
203 Basic Postage Statement,
A mailer may affix postage evidencing
Documentation, and Preparation
postage at the lowest price as follows:
Standards
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the last sentence of item b to
1.0 Postage Statements
read as follows:]
1.1 Completing Postage Statements
b. Additional postage: * * * The total
[Revise the first sentence of 1.1 to read additional postage must be paid by
advance deposit account.
as follows:]
Unless manifested using eVS under
*
*
*
*
*
705.2.9, any domestic mailing claiming
2.2.2
Mixed
Price
Alternative
a discount and all permit imprint
[Revise the last sentence of 2.2.2 to
mailings must be accompanied by a
read as follows:]
completed electronic postage statement
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240 Commercial Mail USPS
Marketing Mail
*
*
*
3.3 Additional Basic Standards for
USPS Marketing Mail
Each USPS Marketing Mail mailing is
subject to these general standards:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the first sentence of item h to
read as follows:]
h. A completed postage statement
using the correct USPS form must be
submitted with each mailing. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
244 Postage Payment and
Documentation
*
*
*
*
*
2.0 Additional Postage Payment
Standards
2.1 Identical-Weight Pieces
[Revise the third sentence in 2.1 to
read as follows:]
* * * If exact postage is not affixed,
all additional postage and surcharges
must be paid at the time of mailing with
an advance deposit account. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
3.0 Affixing Postage at Less Than Full
Price
*
*
*
*
*
3.2 Lowest Price
A mailer may affix metered postage at
the lowest price on identical-weight
pieces as follows:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the last sentence of item c to
read as follows:]
c. Additional postage: * * * The total
additional postage must be paid by
advance deposit account.
*
*
*
*
*
3.3 Mixed Price Alternative for Letters
and Flats
[Revise the last sentence of 3.3 to read
as follows:]
* * * The total additional postage
must be paid by advance deposit
account.
*
*
*
*
*
245
Mail Preparation
*
*
*
*
*
6.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route
Letters
*
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*
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6.9
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 79 / Tuesday, April 25, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
Delivery Sequence Documentation
6.9.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the third sentence of the
introductory text of 6.9.1 to read as
follows:]
* * * The mailer’s electronic
confirmation during eDoc submission
certifies that this standard has been met
when the corresponding mail is
presented to the USPS. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
9.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route
Flats
*
*
*
*
*
9.10.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the third sentence of the
introductory text of 9.10.1 to read as
follows:]
* * * The mailer’s electronic
confirmation during eDoc submission
certifies that this standard has been met
when the corresponding mail is
presented to the USPS. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
12.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier
Route Product Sample Parcels
*
*
*
*
12.7 Delivery Sequence
Documentation
12.7.1 General Standards
[Revise the third sentence of the
introductory text of 12.7.1 to read as
follows:]
* * * The mailer’s electronic
confirmation during eDoc submission
certifies that this standard has been met
when the corresponding mail is
presented to the
USPS. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
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Move Update Standards
*
*
250
Commercial Mail Parcel Select
*
*
*
*
9.3 Date of Address Matching and
Coding
*
5.4 Mailer Certification
[Revise the text of 5.4 to read as
follows:]
The mailer’s electronic confirmation
during eDoc submission certifies that
the Move Update standard has been met
for the address records, including each
address in the corresponding mailing
presented to the Postal Service.
*
*
*
*
*
6.0
*
9.10 Delivery Sequence
Documentation
*
5.0
9.5
*
9.5.1
*
*
*
7.0
Carrier Route Accuracy Standard
*
*
*
*
*
7.4 Mailer Certification
[Revise the text of 7.4 to read as
follows:]
The mailer’s electronic confirmation
during eDoc submission certifies that
the carrier route accuracy standard has
been met for each address in the
corresponding mailing presented to the
USPS.
*
*
*
*
*
8.0 Presort Accuracy Validation and
Evaluation (PAVE)
8.1 Presort Accuracy Validation and
Evaluation (PAVE)
*
*
*
*
8.1.2 Process
[Revise the second and third sentence
of
8.1.2 to read as follows:]
254 Postage Payment and
* * * Vendors process the test file(s)
Documentation
through their presort software or
*
*
*
*
*
hardware and return the resulting
presort documentation to the USPS
2.0 Mailing Documentation
National Customer Support Center
2.1 Completing Postage Statements
(NCSC) for evaluation of the answers.
[Revise the first sentence of 2.1 to read Each test file is evaluated for its
accuracy of presort, compliance with
as follows:]
current DMM standards, accuracy of
All metered and permit imprint
sack/tray/pallet tag labels, and general
mailings of 50 pieces or more, except
acceptability of presort documentation.
manifested mail using eVS under
* * *
705.2.9, must be accompanied by a
completed postage statement. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
9.0 Coding Accuracy Support System
(CASS)
602 Addressing
*
*
*
*
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*
*
*
*
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Update Standards
[Revise the seventh sentence in the
introductory text of 9.3.1 to read as
follows:]
* * * The mailer’s electronic
confirmation during eDoc submission
certifies that this standard has been met
when the corresponding mail is
presented to the USPS. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
ZIP Code Accuracy Standards
6.3 Mailer Certification
[Revise the text of 6.3 to read as
follows:]
The mailer‘s electronic confirmation
during eDoc submission certifies that
the ZIP Code accuracy standard has
been met for each address in the
corresponding mailing presented to the
USPS.
*
*
*
*
*
*
9.3.1
Documentation
Form 3553
[Revise the last sentence of 9.5.1 to
read as follows:]
* * * The mailer certifies compliance
with electronic confirmation during
eDoc submission.
*
*
*
*
*
604 Postage Payment Methods and
Refunds
*
*
*
3.0
Precanceled Stamps
3.1
General Information
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
3.1.8 Return Address
* * * Mailpieces bearing precanceled
stamps and any return addresses outside
the Post Office of mailing must meet one
of the following standards:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise item a to read as follows:]
a. At the time of mailing, the mailer
must submit a copy of the postage
statement and a sample mailpiece,
enclosed in a stamped envelope and
addressed to the postmaster at the Post
Office of the return address.
*
*
*
*
*
607 Mailer Compliance and Appeals
of Classification Decisions
1.0 Mailer Compliance With Mailing
Standards
1.1
Mailer Responsibility
[Revise the third sentence of 1.1 to
read as follows:]
* * * For mailings that require a
postage statement, the mailer certifies
compliance with all applicable postal
standards with electronic confirmation
during eDoc submission. * * *
1.2
Postage Payment
[Revise the last sentence of 1.2 to read
as follows:]
* * * A USPS employee’s acceptance
of the postage statement and the
subsequent acceptance of the mailing
does not constitute verified accuracy of
that statement and does not limit the
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 79 / Tuesday, April 25, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
ability of the USPS to demand proper
payment after acceptance when it
becomes apparent such payment was
not made.
*
*
*
*
*
700
Special Standards
*
*
*
*
*
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705 Advanced Preparation and
Special Postage Payment Systems
*
*
*
2.0
Manifest Mailing System
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
(not claiming the barcode discount)
under the following conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the first sentence of item h to
read as follows:]
h. A complete postage statement(s),
using the correct USPS form, must
accompany each mailing job prepared
under these procedures. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
10.0 Merging Bundles of Flats Using
the City State Product
10.1
Periodicals
10.1.1 Basic Standards
2.2 Basic Standards
* * * Carrier route bundles in a
*
*
*
*
*
carrier route mailing may be placed in
the same sack or on the same pallet as
2.2.7 Postage Statement
5-digit bundles from machinable
[Revise the text of 2.2.7 by deleting the (barcoded or nonbarcoded) price
last two sentences.]
mailings (including pieces cobundled
under 11.0) under the following
*
*
*
*
*
conditions:
9.0 Combining Bundles of Automation
*
*
*
*
*
and Nonautomation Flats in Trays and
[Revise the first sentence of item i to
Sacks
read as follows:]
9.1 First-Class Mail
i. A complete postage statement(s),
using
the correct USPS form, must
9.1.1 Basic Standards
accompany each mailing job prepared
Bundles of flats in an automation
under these procedures. * * *
price mailing prepared under 235.6.5
*
*
*
*
*
must be cotrayed with bundles of flats
10.2 USPS Marketing Mail
in a Presorted price mailing under the
following conditions:
10.2.1 Basic Standards
*
*
*
*
*
Carrier route bundles from a carrier
[Revise the first sentence of item h to
route price mailing may be placed in the
read as follows:]
same sack or on the same pallet as 5h. A complete postage statement,
digit bundles from an automation price
using the correct USPS form, must
mailing and 5-digit bundles from a
accompany each mailing job prepared
Presorted price mailing (including
under these procedures. * * *
pieces cobundled under 11.0) under the
*
*
*
*
*
following conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
9.3 USPS Marketing Mail
[Revise the text of item k to read as
9.3.1 Basic Standards
follows:]
k. A complete postage statement,
Bundles of flats in an automation
using the correct USPS form, must
price mailing must be cosacked with
accompany each mailing job prepared
bundles of flats in a Presorted price
mailing under the following conditions: under these procedures.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the first sentence of item h to
12.0 Merging Bundles of Flats on
read as follows:]
Pallets Using a 5% Threshold
h. A complete postage statement(s),
12.1 Periodicals
using the correct USPS form, must
accompany each mailing job prepared
12.1.1 Basic Standards
under these procedures. * * *
* * * Five-digit bundles from a
*
*
*
*
*
barcoded price mailing and 5-digit
bundles from a nonbarcoded price
9.4 Bound Printed Matter
mailing (including pieces cobundled
9.4.1 Basic Standards
under 11.0) may be placed on the same
pallet as carrier route bundles under the
Bundles of flat-size pieces in a
following conditions:
Presorted price mailing qualifying for
and claiming the barcode discount
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the first sentence in the
under 263.3.0, 263.2.0, and 263.5.0 must
introductory text of item f to read as
be cosacked with bundles of flat-size
follows:]
pieces from a Presorted price mailing
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24915
f. A complete postage statement, using
the correct USPS form, must accompany
each mailing job. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
12.2
USPS Marketing Mail
12.2.1 Basic Standards
* * * Five-digit bundles from an
automation price mailing and 5-digit
bundles from a Presorted price mailing
(including pieces cobundled under 11.0)
may be placed on the same pallet as
carrier route bundles under the
following conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item j to read as
follows:]
j. A complete postage statement, using
the correct USPS form, must be
submitted for each mailing job prepared
under these procedures.
*
*
*
*
*
13.0 Merging Bundles of Flats on
Pallets Using the City State Product and
a 5% Threshold
13.1
Periodicals
13.1.1 Basic Standards
* * * Five-digit bundles from a
barcoded price mailing and 5-digit
bundles from a nonbarcoded price
mailing (including pieces cobundled
under 11.0) may be placed on the same
pallet as carrier route bundles under the
following conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the first sentence in the
introductory text of item g to read as
follows:]
g. A complete postage statement,
using the correct USPS form, must be
submitted for each mailing job. * * *
*
*
*
*
*
13.2 USPS Marketing Mail
13.2.1 Basic Standards
* * * Five-digit bundles from an
automation price mailing and 5-digit
bundles from a Presorted price mailing
(including pieces cobundled under 11.0)
may be placed on the same pallet as
carrier route bundles under the
following conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item k to read as
follows:]
k. A complete postage statement,
using the correct USPS form, must be
submitted for each mailing job prepared
under these procedures.
*
*
*
*
*
17.0
*
17.2
*
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Plant-Verified Drop Shipment
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*
*
*
Program Participation
*
*
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*
24916
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 79 / Tuesday, April 25, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
17.2.3 Verification at Origin BMEU
PVDS verification can be performed at
the origin business mail entry unit
(BMEU) under these conditions:
*
*
*
*
*
[Revise the text of item d to read as
follows:]
d. Form 8125 accompanies each PVDS
(or segment, if the PVDS is contained in
more than one vehicle).
*
*
*
*
*
Tram T. Pham,
Attorney, Ethics and Legal Compliance.
[FR Doc. 2023–08620 Filed 4–24–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE P
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 49
[EPA–R01–OAR–2022–0961, FRL–10562–
02–R1]
Approval and Promulgation of Air
Quality Implementation Plan; Mohegan
Tribe of Indians of Connecticut
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) is approving amendments
to the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of
Connecticut (the Mohegan Tribe,
Mohegans, or the Tribe) Tribal
Implementation Plan (TIP) under the
Clean Air Act (CAA) to regulate air
pollution within the exterior boundaries
of the Tribe’s reservation. EPA approved
the Tribe for treatment in the same
manner as a State (Treatment as State or
TAS) for purposes of administering New
Source Review (NSR) under the CAA on
December 26, 2006. The TIP revisions
we are approving include permitting
requirements for minor sources of air
pollution not covered by the Tribe’s
existing federally approved NSR
permitting program. The purpose of the
TIP revisions is to enable the Tribe to
attain and maintain the National
Ambient Air Quality Standards
(NAAQS) within the exterior boundaries
of its reservation by establishing new
elements to its federally enforceable
preconstruction air permitting program.
DATES: This rule is effective on May 25,
2023.
ADDRESSES: EPA has established a
docket for this action under Docket
Identification No. EPA–R01–OAR–
2022–0961. All documents in the docket
are listed on the https://
www.regulations.gov website. Although
listed in the index, some information is
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1
SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:44 Apr 24, 2023
Jkt 259001
not publicly available, i.e., confidential
business information (CBI) or other
information whose disclosure is
restricted by statute. Certain other
material, such as copyrighted material,
is not placed on the internet and will be
publicly available only in hard copy
form. Publicly available docket
materials are available at https://
www.regulations.gov or at the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, EPA
Region 1 Regional Office, Air and
Radiation Division, 5 Post Office
Square—Suite 100, Boston, MA. EPA
requests that, if at all possible, you
contact the contact listed in the FOR
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section to
schedule your inspection. The Regional
Office’s official hours of business are
Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to
4:30 p.m., excluding legal holidays and
facility closures due to COVID–19.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Madeline Isenberg, Air Permits, Toxics,
and Indoor Programs Branch, EPA
Region 1, 5 Post Office Square (Mail
Code: MI–5), Boston, MA, 02109–3912,
telephone number (617) 918–1271,
email: Isenberg.Madeline@epa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Throughout this document whenever
‘‘we,’’ ‘‘us,’’ or ‘‘our’’ is used, we mean
EPA.
Table of Contents
I. Background and Purpose
II. Response to Comments
III. Final Action
IV. Incorporation by Reference
V. Statutory and Executive Order Review
I. Background and Purpose
On February 13, 2023 (88 FR 2298),
EPA published a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) for TIP revisions
submitted by the Mohegan Tribe of
Indians of Connecticut for approval
under section 110 of the CAA. The TIP
revisions address attainment and
maintenance of the NAAQS within the
exterior boundaries of its reservation by
establishing new elements to its
federally enforceable preconstruction air
permitting program.
The Mohegan Tribe of Indians of
Connecticut is an Indian Tribe federally
recognized on March 7, 1994, by
congressional legislation (Pub. L. 103–
377, October 19, 1994.). The Secretary of
the Interior recognizes the ‘‘Mohegan
Tribe of Connecticut’’ (86 FR 7554,
January 29, 2021). On May 4, 2005, the
Mohegan Tribe of Indians of
Connecticut submitted a request that we
find the Tribe eligible for TAS pursuant
to section 301(d)(2) of the CAA and title
42, part 49 of the Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR), for the purpose of
implementing its CAA permitting
PO 00000
Frm 00020
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
program. The Mohegans also submitted
for EPA approval its TIP on May 4,
2005.
The Tribe requested a TAS eligibility
determination pursuant to the CAA and
the Tribal Authority Rule (‘‘TAR’’) for
the purpose of administering its TIP
within reservation lands. The operative
portion of the Mohegan TIP was the
Tribe’s Area Wide NOX Emission
Limitation Regulation.
The Tribe formally submitted the
applicable elements of its TIP revision
to EPA Region 1 on July 28, 2022.
The rationale for EPA’s proposed
approval of the Mohegan TIP is
explained in the NPRM and will not be
restated here. No adverse public
comments were received on the NPRM.
II. Response to Comments
EPA received one comment during
the comment period, which supported
EPA’s proposed action. As such, this
comment does not require further
response to finalize the action as
proposed. The comment is available in
the docket for this action.
III. Final Action
EPA is approving the Mohegan TIP
revisions under the Clean Air Act to
regulate air pollution within the exterior
boundaries of the Tribe’s reservation.
The TIP revisions include the addition
of a source registration program for new
and existing sources, a minor NSR
permitting program, and provisions to
obtain a potential to emit limit to render
a source non-major for new and existing
sources. The revisions also outline a
process by which the Mohegan Tribe
can establish permit by rules, and the
Tribe has adopted one permit by rule
into its body of regulations for gasoline
dispensing facilities as part of these
revisions.
IV. Incorporation by Reference
In this rule, EPA is finalizing
regulatory text that includes
incorporation by reference. In
accordance with requirements of 1 CFR
51.5, the EPA is finalizing the
incorporation by reference of the
Mohegan Tribe’s Resolution No. 2022–
31, which incorporates Article XIII–A
and establishes a minor NSR
preconstruction permitting program and
allows for sources that would otherwise
be major to take restrictions on their
potential to emit to below major source
thresholds, as described in the
amendments to 40 CFR part 49 set forth
below. The EPA has made, and will
continue to make, these documents
generally available through https://
www.regulations.gov and at the EPA
Region 1 Office (please contact the
E:\FR\FM\25APR1.SGM
25APR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 79 (Tuesday, April 25, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 24912-24916]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-08620]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
POSTAL SERVICE
39 CFR Part 111
Hardcopy Postage Statements Discontinued
AGENCY: Postal ServiceTM.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Postal Service is amending Mailing Standards of the United
States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM[supreg]) in various
sections to discontinue the use of hardcopy postage statements for
domestic commercial mailings.
DATES: Effective: January 28, 2024.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael Filipski at (312) 765-3089 or
Garry Rodriguez at (202) 268-7281.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On February 13, 2023, the Postal Service
published a notice of proposed rulemaking (88 FR 9218-9221) to
discontinue the use of hardcopy postage statements for domestic
commercial mailings. In response to the proposed rule, the Postal
Service received 16 comments as follows:
Comment: Multiple comments stated eliminating hardcopy postage
statements would make it so we cannot submit bulk mailings any longer.
Response: The Federal Register Notice proposed rule provided that
Postal Wizard[supreg] and the Intelligent Mail[supreg] Small Business
Tool (IMsb) are free and simple electronic documentation solutions
available to all customers through the Business Customer Gateway, and
that third-party software and mail preparation options are also
available on the PostalPro website. In addition, all business mail
entry unit (BMEU) employees are trained to assist customers with this
transition.
Comment: The USPS should improve communications to the field,
specifically requiring local postmasters where Periodical mail is
entered to hold in-person meetings with mailers no later than 180 days
before any implementation date of this proposal.
Response: Postal Service BMEU employees and managers began reaching
out to customers and meeting with them well over a year before the date
where we intend to no longer accept hardcopy postage statements. These
efforts include weekly informational sessions on using the Intelligent
Mail for Small Business Tool and Postal Wizard as well as targeted
outreach to individual customers ensuring they know how to use the free
electronic documentation options and which third part solutions are
available. Internal information sessions and material is continually
provided to all BMEU staff and postmasters to ensure they are aware of
the changes and can decipher this information to our customers.
Comment: I do not have a computer and cannot submit my postage
statement electronically.
Response: BMEUs where you currently bring your hardcopy statement
will assist you with submitting a statement electronically.
Comment: Eliminating hardcopy postage statements will create an
issue for mailers who mail non-identical pieces and must submit a
hardcopy manifest.
Response: Postal Wizard, which is free electronic documentation
software available on the Business Customer Gateway, allows for non-
identical pieces as do many third-party options listed on PostalPro.
The hardcopy manifest that must be accompanied with such a mailing will
still be accepted; this FRN only covers postage statements themselves
and does not prohibit hardcopy manifests.
Comment: The transition period should be continued through 2025.
Response: The Postal Service has ensured the local BMEUs have
encouraged mailers to transition to electronic documentation for
several years and official notice was provided 11 months prior to this
transition. Given this and that there are various free and easy options
to submit electronic documentation, the Postal Service believes January
2024 is sufficient time for hardcopy mailers to transfer.
Comment: The USPS should rapidly enhance the available of service
data for newspaper mail. Better visibility.
Response: This comment is beyond the scope of this FRN. However,
the Postal Service is exploring visibility enhancements for all our
products.
The Postal Service is discontinuing the use of hardcopy postage
statements to improve efficiency by expediting the acceptance of
commercial mail. Except for Electronic Verification System
(eVS[supreg]) mailings, all domestic commercial mailings must use an
[[Page 24913]]
approved electronic method to transmit a postage statement to the
PostalOne! [supreg] system.
The Postal Service provides free means of electronic postage
statement submission through the Intelligent Mail for Small Business
(IMsb) tool and Postal Wizard. There are also approved third party
software options available on PostalPro at postalpro.usps.com.
The use of hardcopy postage statements for Every Door Direct Mail--
Retail[supreg] (EDDM-R[supreg]) and international mailings will not be
affected by this revision.
We believe this revision will provide customers with a more
efficient mailing experience.
The Postal Service adopts the following changes to Mailing
Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual
(DMM), incorporated by reference in the Code of Federal Regulations.
See 39 CFR 111.1.
We will publish an appropriate amendment to 39 CFR part 111 to
reflect these changes.
List of Subjects in 39 CFR Part 111
Administrative practice and procedure, Postal Service.
Accordingly, 39 CFR part 111 is amended as follows:
PART 111--[AMENDED]
0
1. The authority citation for 39 CFR part 111 continues to read as
follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 552(a); 13 U.S.C. 301-307; 18 U.S.C. 1692-
1737; 39 U.S.C. 101, 401-404, 414, 416, 3001-3018, 3201-3220, 3401-
3406, 3621, 3622, 3626, 3629, 3631-3633, 3641, 3681-3685, and 5001.
0
2. Revise the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service,
Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) as follows:
Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail
Manual (DMM)
* * * * *
200 Commercial Letters, Flats, and Parcels
* * * * *
203 Basic Postage Statement, Documentation, and Preparation Standards
1.0 Postage Statements
1.1 Completing Postage Statements
[Revise the first sentence of 1.1 to read as follows:]
Unless manifested using eVS under 705.2.9, any domestic mailing
claiming a discount and all permit imprint mailings must be accompanied
by a completed electronic postage statement (NOTE: Except for Every
Door Direct Mail--Retail, all commercial references to ``postage
statements'' in the DMM are electronic.). * * *
* * * * *
[Delete 1.3, Facsimile Postage Statements, in its entirety.]
* * * * *
3.0 Standardized Documentation for First-Class Mail, Periodicals, USPS
Marketing Mail, and Flat-Size Bound Printed Matter
* * * * *
3.2 Format and Content
For First-Class Mail, Periodicals, USPS Marketing Mail, and Bound
Printed Matter, standardized documentation includes:
* * * * *
e. * * * For Periodicals mailings, documentation also must provide:
* * * * *
[Delete the last sentence of item e4.]
* * * * *
230 Commercial Mail First-Class Mail
* * * * *
234 Postage Payment and Documentation
* * * * *
2.0 Affixing Postage to Presorted and Automation Letters and Flats
2.1 Affixing Postage for Presorted and Automation First-Class Mail
Except as permitted under 2.2 or authorized by the director,
Business Acceptance Solutions, each piece must bear the numerical value
of postage under one of these conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the last sentence of item b to read as follows:]
b. * * * Additional postage must be paid at the time of mailing
with an advance deposit account.
2.2 Affixing Postage at Less Than Full Price to All Pieces
* * * * *
2.2.1 Lowest Price
A mailer may affix postage evidencing postage at the lowest price
as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the last sentence of item b to read as follows:]
b. Additional postage: * * * The total additional postage must be
paid by advance deposit account.
* * * * *
2.2.2 Mixed Price Alternative
[Revise the last sentence of 2.2.2 to read as follows:]
* * * The total additional postage must be paid by advance deposit
account.
* * * * *
240 Commercial Mail USPS Marketing Mail
243 Prices and Eligibility
* * * * *
3.3 Additional Basic Standards for USPS Marketing Mail
Each USPS Marketing Mail mailing is subject to these general
standards:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item h to read as follows:]
h. A completed postage statement using the correct USPS form must
be submitted with each mailing. * * *
* * * * *
244 Postage Payment and Documentation
* * * * *
2.0 Additional Postage Payment Standards
2.1 Identical-Weight Pieces
[Revise the third sentence in 2.1 to read as follows:]
* * * If exact postage is not affixed, all additional postage and
surcharges must be paid at the time of mailing with an advance deposit
account. * * *
* * * * *
3.0 Affixing Postage at Less Than Full Price
* * * * *
3.2 Lowest Price
A mailer may affix metered postage at the lowest price on
identical-weight pieces as follows:
* * * * *
[Revise the last sentence of item c to read as follows:]
c. Additional postage: * * * The total additional postage must be
paid by advance deposit account.
* * * * *
3.3 Mixed Price Alternative for Letters and Flats
[Revise the last sentence of 3.3 to read as follows:]
* * * The total additional postage must be paid by advance deposit
account.
* * * * *
245 Mail Preparation
* * * * *
6.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route Letters
* * * * *
[[Page 24914]]
6.9 Delivery Sequence Documentation
6.9.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the third sentence of the introductory text of 6.9.1 to
read as follows:]
* * * The mailer's electronic confirmation during eDoc submission
certifies that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail
is presented to the USPS. * * *
* * * * *
9.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route Flats
* * * * *
9.10 Delivery Sequence Documentation
9.10.1 Basic Standards
[Revise the third sentence of the introductory text of 9.10.1 to
read as follows:]
* * * The mailer's electronic confirmation during eDoc submission
certifies that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail
is presented to the USPS. * * *
* * * * *
12.0 Preparing Enhanced Carrier Route Product Sample Parcels
* * * * *
12.7 Delivery Sequence Documentation
12.7.1 General Standards
[Revise the third sentence of the introductory text of 12.7.1 to
read as follows:]
* * * The mailer's electronic confirmation during eDoc submission
certifies that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail
is presented to the
USPS. * * *
* * * * *
250 Commercial Mail Parcel Select
* * * * *
254 Postage Payment and Documentation
* * * * *
2.0 Mailing Documentation
2.1 Completing Postage Statements
[Revise the first sentence of 2.1 to read as follows:]
All metered and permit imprint mailings of 50 pieces or more,
except manifested mail using eVS under 705.2.9, must be accompanied by
a completed postage statement. * * *
* * * * *
602 Addressing
* * * * *
5.0 Move Update Standards
* * * * *
5.4 Mailer Certification
[Revise the text of 5.4 to read as follows:]
The mailer's electronic confirmation during eDoc submission
certifies that the Move Update standard has been met for the address
records, including each address in the corresponding mailing presented
to the Postal Service.
* * * * *
6.0 ZIP Code Accuracy Standards
* * * * *
6.3 Mailer Certification
[Revise the text of 6.3 to read as follows:]
The mailer`s electronic confirmation during eDoc submission
certifies that the ZIP Code accuracy standard has been met for each
address in the corresponding mailing presented to the USPS.
* * * * *
7.0 Carrier Route Accuracy Standard
* * * * *
7.4 Mailer Certification
[Revise the text of 7.4 to read as follows:]
The mailer's electronic confirmation during eDoc submission
certifies that the carrier route accuracy standard has been met for
each address in the corresponding mailing presented to the USPS.
* * * * *
8.0 Presort Accuracy Validation and Evaluation (PAVE)
8.1 Presort Accuracy Validation and Evaluation (PAVE)
* * * * *
8.1.2 Process
[Revise the second and third sentence of 8.1.2 to read as follows:]
* * * Vendors process the test file(s) through their presort
software or hardware and return the resulting presort documentation to
the USPS National Customer Support Center (NCSC) for evaluation of the
answers. Each test file is evaluated for its accuracy of presort,
compliance with current DMM standards, accuracy of sack/tray/pallet tag
labels, and general acceptability of presort documentation. * * *
* * * * *
9.0 Coding Accuracy Support System (CASS)
* * * * *
9.3 Date of Address Matching and Coding
9.3.1 Update Standards
[Revise the seventh sentence in the introductory text of 9.3.1 to
read as follows:]
* * * The mailer's electronic confirmation during eDoc submission
certifies that this standard has been met when the corresponding mail
is presented to the USPS. * * *
* * * * *
9.5 Documentation
9.5.1 Form 3553
[Revise the last sentence of 9.5.1 to read as follows:]
* * * The mailer certifies compliance with electronic confirmation
during eDoc submission.
* * * * *
604 Postage Payment Methods and Refunds
* * * * *
3.0 Precanceled Stamps
3.1 General Information
* * * * *
3.1.8 Return Address
* * * Mailpieces bearing precanceled stamps and any return
addresses outside the Post Office of mailing must meet one of the
following standards:
* * * * *
[Revise item a to read as follows:]
a. At the time of mailing, the mailer must submit a copy of the
postage statement and a sample mailpiece, enclosed in a stamped
envelope and addressed to the postmaster at the Post Office of the
return address.
* * * * *
607 Mailer Compliance and Appeals of Classification Decisions
1.0 Mailer Compliance With Mailing Standards
1.1 Mailer Responsibility
[Revise the third sentence of 1.1 to read as follows:]
* * * For mailings that require a postage statement, the mailer
certifies compliance with all applicable postal standards with
electronic confirmation during eDoc submission. * * *
1.2 Postage Payment
[Revise the last sentence of 1.2 to read as follows:]
* * * A USPS employee's acceptance of the postage statement and the
subsequent acceptance of the mailing does not constitute verified
accuracy of that statement and does not limit the
[[Page 24915]]
ability of the USPS to demand proper payment after acceptance when it
becomes apparent such payment was not made.
* * * * *
700 Special Standards
* * * * *
705 Advanced Preparation and Special Postage Payment Systems
* * * * *
2.0 Manifest Mailing System
* * * * *
2.2 Basic Standards
* * * * *
2.2.7 Postage Statement
[Revise the text of 2.2.7 by deleting the last two sentences.]
* * * * *
9.0 Combining Bundles of Automation and Nonautomation Flats in Trays
and Sacks
9.1 First-Class Mail
9.1.1 Basic Standards
Bundles of flats in an automation price mailing prepared under
235.6.5 must be cotrayed with bundles of flats in a Presorted price
mailing under the following conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item h to read as follows:]
h. A complete postage statement, using the correct USPS form, must
accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. * * *
* * * * *
9.3 USPS Marketing Mail
9.3.1 Basic Standards
Bundles of flats in an automation price mailing must be cosacked
with bundles of flats in a Presorted price mailing under the following
conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item h to read as follows:]
h. A complete postage statement(s), using the correct USPS form,
must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. * * *
* * * * *
9.4 Bound Printed Matter
9.4.1 Basic Standards
Bundles of flat-size pieces in a Presorted price mailing qualifying
for and claiming the barcode discount under 263.3.0, 263.2.0, and
263.5.0 must be cosacked with bundles of flat-size pieces from a
Presorted price mailing (not claiming the barcode discount) under the
following conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item h to read as follows:]
h. A complete postage statement(s), using the correct USPS form,
must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. * * *
* * * * *
10.0 Merging Bundles of Flats Using the City State Product
10.1 Periodicals
10.1.1 Basic Standards
* * * Carrier route bundles in a carrier route mailing may be
placed in the same sack or on the same pallet as 5-digit bundles from
machinable (barcoded or nonbarcoded) price mailings (including pieces
cobundled under 11.0) under the following conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence of item i to read as follows:]
i. A complete postage statement(s), using the correct USPS form,
must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. * * *
* * * * *
10.2 USPS Marketing Mail
10.2.1 Basic Standards
Carrier route bundles from a carrier route price mailing may be
placed in the same sack or on the same pallet as 5-digit bundles from
an automation price mailing and 5-digit bundles from a Presorted price
mailing (including pieces cobundled under 11.0) under the following
conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item k to read as follows:]
k. A complete postage statement, using the correct USPS form, must
accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures.
* * * * *
12.0 Merging Bundles of Flats on Pallets Using a 5% Threshold
12.1 Periodicals
12.1.1 Basic Standards
* * * Five-digit bundles from a barcoded price mailing and 5-digit
bundles from a nonbarcoded price mailing (including pieces cobundled
under 11.0) may be placed on the same pallet as carrier route bundles
under the following conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence in the introductory text of item f to
read as follows:]
f. A complete postage statement, using the correct USPS form, must
accompany each mailing job. * * *
* * * * *
12.2 USPS Marketing Mail
12.2.1 Basic Standards
* * * Five-digit bundles from an automation price mailing and 5-
digit bundles from a Presorted price mailing (including pieces
cobundled under 11.0) may be placed on the same pallet as carrier route
bundles under the following conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item j to read as follows:]
j. A complete postage statement, using the correct USPS form, must
be submitted for each mailing job prepared under these procedures.
* * * * *
13.0 Merging Bundles of Flats on Pallets Using the City State Product
and a 5% Threshold
13.1 Periodicals
13.1.1 Basic Standards
* * * Five-digit bundles from a barcoded price mailing and 5-digit
bundles from a nonbarcoded price mailing (including pieces cobundled
under 11.0) may be placed on the same pallet as carrier route bundles
under the following conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the first sentence in the introductory text of item g to
read as follows:]
g. A complete postage statement, using the correct USPS form, must
be submitted for each mailing job. * * *
* * * * *
13.2 USPS Marketing Mail
13.2.1 Basic Standards
* * * Five-digit bundles from an automation price mailing and 5-
digit bundles from a Presorted price mailing (including pieces
cobundled under 11.0) may be placed on the same pallet as carrier route
bundles under the following conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item k to read as follows:]
k. A complete postage statement, using the correct USPS form, must
be submitted for each mailing job prepared under these procedures.
* * * * *
17.0 Plant-Verified Drop Shipment
* * * * *
17.2 Program Participation
* * * * *
[[Page 24916]]
17.2.3 Verification at Origin BMEU
PVDS verification can be performed at the origin business mail
entry unit (BMEU) under these conditions:
* * * * *
[Revise the text of item d to read as follows:]
d. Form 8125 accompanies each PVDS (or segment, if the PVDS is
contained in more than one vehicle).
* * * * *
Tram T. Pham,
Attorney, Ethics and Legal Compliance.
[FR Doc. 2023-08620 Filed 4-24-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE P
