[Blindtlk] sending things Free Matter

[Marion & Martin]

Julie,
    According to USPS Publication 347

"Q: Which matter may I mail free of postage?
A: Under the conditions specified below, the following matter is eligible:
1. Reading matter in Braille or 14- point or larger sightsaving type and 
musical scores.
2. Paper, records, tapes, and other matter for the production of reading 
matter, musical scores, or sound reproductions for eligible persons.
3. Equipment and parts for equipment, such as Braille writers, used for 
writing by eligible persons or for educational purposes.
4. Sound playback equipment specially designed or adapted for the use of 
visually handicapped persons.
5. Equipment or parts for
equipment specifically designed or adapted
for use by visually handicapped persons, such as Braille watches, white 
canes, and similar equipment.
Q: Are there restrictions on this matter?
A: The matter may not contain any advertising. Musical or other sound 
recordings not specifically
designed for use by visually handicapped persons are not
eligible for free mailing. Matter having a required
charge, rental, subscription, or other fee - unless the fee
does not exceed the cost of the item - is not eligible for
free mailing.
Empty shipping materials for mailing eligible matter may not be sent free 
and must bear the full applicable postage.
The mail is subject to inspection by the Postal
Service.

So, it seems that canes and harnesses, as well as other gear are eligible as 
free matter.

Marion



----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Julie J." <jlcrane at alltel.net>
To: "NFBnet Blind Talk Mailing List" <blindtlk at nfbnet.org>
Sent: Tuesday, June 26, 2007 3:47 PM
Subject: [Blindtlk] sending things Free Matter


Hello peoples!

I'm wondering if anyone can clear up a question I and the post office folks 
have.

I have always been told by other blind people, rehab personnel and others 
that anything specifically for the use of a blind person can be sent Free 
Matter.  I'm specifically thinking of white canes, guide dog harnesses etc.

According to the local post office personnel only reading, writing and 
recording materials can be sent Free Matter, including Braille, cassettes, 
records, sound recording or playback devices etc.

So help me out here, which is it and where can I see the official ruling in 
writing?

All help is greatly appreciated.
Julie
Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and 
those who matter don't mind.

Dr. Seuss



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