7. FIRST-CLASS MAIL SERVICE STANDARDS COMPLAINT CASE: DOCKET NO. C2001-3
On May 19, 2001, a complaint was filed with the PRC, pursuant to 39 U.S.C. 3662, alleging that in 2000 and 2001 the Postal Service implemented changes in two- and three-day service standards for First-Class Mail service on a nationwide or substantially nationwide basis, without first requesting a Commission advisory opinion, pursuant to 39 U.S.C. 3661. The complaint also alleged that the First-Class Mail service resulting from these service standard changes did not comply with various policies under the Postal Reorganization Act (the Act). While the Postal Service admitted that service standard changes occurred during 2000 and 2001, it did not consider that a request for an advisory opinion was required. Rather, it contended that the service standard changes were part of a more extensive realignment plan previously submitted for Commission review in Docket No. N89-1. The Postal Service also did not consider that the service resulting from the changes was inconsistent with any policies of the Act. The complaint proceeding is pending before the Commission.