# Plain Language Summary: Stamp Out Invasive Species Act

This bill creates a special postage stamp that costs slightly more than a regular stamp, with the extra money going directly to fighting invasive species. Invasive species are plants and animals that don't naturally belong in an area and cause serious damage to local ecosystems and wildlife. Think of it like zebra mussels clogging water pipes, kudzu choking out native forests, or pythons taking over the Everglades. The bill recognizes that these invasive species harm native plants and animals while also costing communities money in cleanup and prevention efforts.

Here's how it would work in practice: When you buy this special stamp at the post office, you'd pay a bit more than the standard postage price—but no more than 25 percent extra. That extra money gets split equally between the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture, both of which run programs to identify, control, and eliminate invasive species. So if you're someone who cares about protecting natural areas and wildlife, buying these stamps when you mail letters or packages becomes a simple way to contribute to that cause without writing a separate check or donation.

The stamp would be available for two years starting within a year of the bill becoming law. This isn't a permanent program—it's designed as a limited-time initiative to raise funds for invasive species control efforts. The money collected would be sent to these departments at least twice a year, so the funds get to work relatively quickly. Essentially, this bill turns everyday mail into a fundraising tool for environmental protection, letting ordinary people support conservation efforts through something they're already doing.

Stamp Out Invasive Species Act

Stefanik, Elise M.

Stamp Out Invasive Species Act This bill directs the U.S. Postal Service to issue and sell a Combating Invasive Species Semipostal Stamp. Proceeds from the sale of the stamp must be transferred in equal proportion to the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture for combating invasive species. (Invasive species are nonnative species whose introduction poses a serious threat to natural ecosystems and causes detrimental economic damage to local communities.) The stamp must be made available to the public for two years.