Opportunity
Federal Register #2026-17238
USPS Final Rule: Federal Ballot Mail Standards and Data Submission Requirements
Buyer
U.S. Postal Service
Posted
August 26, 2026
Identifier
2026-17238
NAICS
541860
This opportunity centers on the U.S. Postal Service's final rule establishing new standards for Federal Ballot Mail in federal elections. - Government Buyer: - United States Postal Service (USPS) - Products/Services Requested: - Outbound Federal Ballot Mail Envelope - Must feature Official Election Mail logo - Automation compatible - Unique Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb) with Delivery Point ZIP Code and Federal Ballot Mail Service Type Identifier (STID) - Requires mailpiece design review by USPS - Return Federal Ballot Mail Envelope - Same requirements as outbound envelope - Federal Ballot Mail Portal Data Submission and Verification - States and authorized users must submit mailpiece-level data (voter name, address, unique IMbs) via USPS portal - USPS verifies compliance before accepting outbound mailings - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Mandatory use of Official Election Mail logo and IMb with specific STID - Data submission at least 30 days before election, with flexibility for updates - USPS review and verification of mailpiece design and data compliance - Rule aims to enhance mail visibility, support law enforcement, and maintain election integrity - No OEMs or commercial vendors are specified, as this is a regulatory standard for election mail, not a procurement of products or services.
Description
The Postal Service is amending the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual, regarding the transmission of mail-in or absentee ballots for federal elections pursuant to its rulemaking authority. The rule aims to facilitate enforcement of federal law, reduce the risk of fraud, and help protect the integrity of federal elections. It includes mailpiece design and data reporting standards to promote proper handling, efficient processing, and timely delivery of ballots. The rule is effective August 21, 2026, and applies to mail-in and absentee ballots for federal elections.