Federal Management Regulation; FMR Case 2008-102-4, Mail Management; Financial Requirements for All Agencies (Comment #1)

The Department of state is organized in a very complex matrix with various postal operations, many of which are closely aligned with USPS. For example, the Department has Diplomatic Post Offices and Mail Centers in over 200 foreign (sovereign) countries. Because of the varying degrees of our relationships with these host nations inflexible rules can result in ineffective diplomatic relations. For this reason, each post's Ambassador has executive privilege and decision abilities to ensure his/her mission is as effective as possible. To be effective many posts choose to use their own operating funds for postage, both foreign and U.S. postage. Another close alliance we have with USPS is through the Consular Affairs (CA) organization who together with USPS take applications and mail passports from multiple passport centers and individuals throughout the United States. CA does not fall under Diplomatic Pouch and Mails authority, our role to them is strictly advisory in nature. Because of their immense responsibility to all U.S. citizens this is the only way they can effectively operate. However, their passport services are closely aligned with the U.S.P.S. most cost effective methods. CA has their designated USPS Government customer representatives who keep in close counsel as well. The Department feels that we should be allowed to continue using OMAS as long as we can demonstrate savings and detailed accountability as described in 102- 192. For these reasons we believe that deviations should still be accepted and granted on a case by case basis.