Rate hikes threaten philatelic publications

The Utne Reader raises concerns that the new postal rates in May will "disproportionately raise rates for small and independent publications -- many of which are barely scrapping by in the first place -- and leave large publications relatively unscathed."

The hike will no doubt adversely effect various philatelic publications (and may well drive subscription rates up) such as Linn's Stamp News, Scott Stamp Monthly, The American Philatelist, Global Stamp News and others.

A separate Web site has been established where individuals can send a message to Chairman James C. Miller III, Postal Board of Governors; members of Congress; the Postal Regulatory Commission; and Postmaster General John E. Potter that protests the hike.

The message reads in part, "This goes against more than 200 years of postal policy, which has promoted the spread of diverse periodicals in competitive markets as a means to foster a free press and inform and engage citizens."

Shown above is the now defunct Stamp Collector which went out of business in 2004.

To send an e-mail protesting the hike, click here.