Mail covers

(a) In general Chapter 83 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 1737 the following: 1738. Limitation on use of mail covers (a) Requirement for Court Order (1) Limitation A governmental entity may not use a mail cover, unless the governmental entity obtains a court order pursuant to paragraph (2). (2) Court order A court order authorizing the use of a mail cover may be issued by any court that is a court of competent jurisdiction and shall issue only if a governmental entity offers specific and articulable facts showing that there are reasonable grounds to believe that mail covers are relevant and material to an ongoing criminal investigation. In the case of a State governmental authority, such a court order shall not issue if prohibited by the law of such State. (b) Requirement To Preserve Evidence (1) In general The Chief Postal Inspector, upon the request of a governmental entity, shall take all necessary steps to preserve records and other evidence in its possession pending the issuance of a court order or other process. (2) Period of retention Records referred to in paragraph (1) shall be retained for a period of 90 days, which shall be extended for an additional 90-day period upon a renewed request by the governmental entity. (c) Mail cover defined The term mail cover has the meaning given that term in section 233.3 of title 39, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation).. (b) Clerical amendment The table of sections for chapter 83 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item related to section 1737 the following: 1738. Limitation on use of mail covers..