Maybe they are trying to make up for the fact that more and more mail is being conducted via the internet, such as by email or paying bills online and they need the money however they can get it. I mailed a manila envelope the other day and was charged 20 cents for a piece of tape to cover up the metal clasp so it wouldn't catch in the machinery. I had just picked up the papers and didn't have tape with me. Not a new law, she said, they are just being forced to enforce it now. They are also griping about getting my mail from my box so my grandson can bring it to me. Health problems sometimes prohibit me from getting there myself.