[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 172 (Thursday, November 2, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2105]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  EXPANDING SECOND CLASS POSTAL RATES

                                 ______


                        HON. JOHN JOSEPH MOAKLEY

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 2, 1995

  Mr. MOAKLEY. Mr. Speaker, today, I am introducing legislation that 
would narrowly expand the definition of second class postal rates to 
include Elderhostel.
  Elderhostel is an independent, nonprofit organization that combines 
the traditions of a college education and youth hostels for people over 
the age of 60. Inspired by the world wide success of youth hostels, 
Elderhostel, offers retirees a host of educational programs at 
university campuses, community centers, museums, and even in State and 
national parks. More than 1,900 colleges and universities throughout 
the United States, Canada, and 47 other countries participate in the 
international program.
  Elderhostel offers retirees the ability to return to school. 
Participants can study history, astronomy, geology, jazz, or just about 
any subject they are interested in. The programs are relaxed, no-
pressure, learning experiences. Seniors have the opportunity to expand 
their mind, meet new friends, and improve the quality of their 
lifestyle.
  Seniors are not the only ones who benefit. State and local economies 
benefit as well. Many seniors who participate in the program travel to 
other States and cities for classes. Thus, increasing the rate of 
travel and tourism to many States throughout our country. Elderhostel 
generates huge resources for many States, including Massachusetts, New 
York, Maryland, California, Alaska, Florida, Ohio, Hawaii, and Indiana.
  Elderhostel enrolls its students through the mail. It sends course 
catalogues free of charge to thousands of older Americans who request 
them. The problem is postal rates are increasing and Elderhostel is 
unable to continue to offer these courses at modest costs.
  Elderhostel currently mails its course catalogues at a third class, 
nonprofit bulk rate. The catalogue is not eligible for second-class 
rates because it is not a publication of a regularly incorporated 
nonprofit institution of learning--even though colleges and 
universities that participate in the program are eligible.
  My legislation would expand the definition of second class postal 
rate to include Elderhostel. Specifically, the definition of ``an 
institution of higher learning'' would be amended to include 
Elderhostel because it operates a central course catalogue for all 
levels of classes offered by regular institutions of learning.
  I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

                          ____________________