1 Introduction

1-1 Purpose of This Handbook

Handbook AS-353, Guide to Privacy, the Freedom of Information Act, and Records Management, describes Postal Service™ policies and procedures governing the privacy of information relating to customers, employees, or other individuals, and the release, protection, and management of Postal Service records. The Postal Service is mandated by law, and has adopted policies, to protect the privacy of its customers, employees, individuals, and suppliers. The Postal Service is also required to make its records available to the public consistent with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and good business practices.