The Postal Service may contract for the transportation of mail by vessel without advertising for bids. ( Pub. L. 91–375 , Aug. 12, 1970 , 84 Stat. 773 ; Pub. L. 109–435, title X, § 1002(b)(3) , Dec. 20, 2006 , 120 Stat. 3255 .) Editorial Notes Amendments 2006— Pub. L. 109–438 struck out “for periods of not in excess of 4 years” before period at end. Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries Effective Date Section effective July 1, 1971 , pursuant to Resolution No. 71–9 of the Board of Governors. See section 15(a) of Pub. L. 91–375 , set out as a note preceding section 101 of this title . CFR Title Parts 39 601