USPS Issues Final Rule on Mail Ballots, Federal Government Cites Injunctions Preventing Enforcement
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has issued a final rule regarding the handling of mail ballots, following an executive order from President Trump. However, the federal government has stated in court filings that it cannot enforce this rule due to two existing injunctions. The final rule, which is set to be formally published on August 26, 2026, and become effective on August 21, 2026, specifies that the Postal Service will generally not accept Outbound Federal Ballot mailings unless compliance with the new standards has been verified. Despite the rule's issuance, the government has clarified that no action will be taken to implement it for any election held on or before November 3, 2026, unless relief from the injunctions is obtained. 
