What is the term for the postal privilege that allows members of Congress to send mail for free?

The term for the postal privilege that allows members of Congress to send mail for free is known as the franking privilege. This privilege empowers elected officials to communicate with their constituents without having to pay postage, which facilitates outreach and engagement with the public they represent. Franking privileges date back to the founding of the United States, reflecting the importance of communication in a representative democracy. By allowing lawmakers to send official correspondence without cost, it promotes transparency and enables them to effectively inform their constituents about legislative activities, government services, and public issues. This practice plays a vital role in maintaining an informed electorate, which is essential for a functioning democratic system.