H.R. 3024: Stamp Out Invasive Species Act

This bill, titled the Stamp Out Invasive Species Act, aims to address the issue of invasive species in the United States by facilitating public contributions to combating this problem. Here’s a breakdown of what the bill proposes:

Purpose

The core purpose of the legislation is to create a fundraising mechanism specifically for programs managed by the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture that focus on preventing and controlling invasive species.

Semipostal Stamp

To achieve this, the bill mandates the issuance of a new postal stamp, referred to as the Combating Invasive Species Semipostal Stamp. Here are the key points regarding this stamp:

• Public Contribution: The semipostal stamp will allow members of the public to contribute financially to the fight against invasive species when they purchase the stamps.
• Operational Framework: The production and sale of this semipostal stamp will be governed by existing postal regulations as defined in section 416 of title 39 of the United States Code, with specific updates as necessary.
• Postage Rate: The additional cost of the semipostal stamp (the differential rate) cannot exceed 25% of the normal postage rate.
• Duration of Sale: The stamp will be available for a period of two years, starting no later than 12 months after the bill becomes law.
• Distribution of Funds: Proceeds from the sale of the stamps will be allocated evenly to the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture, supporting their respective programs focused on invasive species. Payments will be made at least twice a year.

Impact on Invasive Species

The bill recognizes that invasive species can be detrimental to native ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and causing economic harm to local communities. The funds raised from the semipostal stamp are intended to enhance efforts aimed at mitigating these impacts.

Implementation

This legislative measure, once enacted, requires coordination between vendors, postal services, and federal departments to effectively launch and manage the sales and distribution of the semipostal stamps.

Relevant Companies

None found