New Stamp Will Fund Fight Against Invasive Species: Up to 25% Surcharge for Two Years

The Stamp Out Invasive Species Act is a straightforward piece of legislation with a clear goal: to create a dedicated, temporary funding source to fight destructive invasive species across the country. Essentially, this bill mandates that the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) issue a special, limited-edition stamp called the "Combating Invasive Species Semipostal Stamp." This isn't just a regular stamp; it’s designed to raise money, and the bill sets the rules for how that money is collected and spent.

Your Mail, Their Mission: How the Semipostal Works

Think of a semipostal stamp like a regular stamp with a built-in, voluntary donation. When you buy one, you pay the postage rate plus a little extra surcharge. This bill caps that extra cost—known as the "differential rate"—at no more than 25 percent of the stamp's total price. For example, if the stamp costs $1.00, the surcharge can be up to $0.25. The USPS has 12 months from the law’s enactment to start selling this stamp, and it will remain available for a strict two-year period (SEC. 2).

Where the Money Goes (And Why It Matters)

Every single penny raised from that surcharge is earmarked specifically for invasive species control programs. The bill mandates that these proceeds be split right down the middle: 50 percent goes to the Department of the Interior (DOI) and 50 percent goes to the Department of Agriculture (USDA). They have to receive these payments at least twice a year. Why the split? Because invasive species—like the Emerald Ash Borer or destructive aquatic plants—don't respect jurisdiction. The DOI handles public lands, parks, and wildlife, while the USDA focuses on agricultural threats, forests, and plant health. This mechanism ensures that both sides of the fight are funded, whether it’s protecting a national forest or safeguarding local crops.

Real-World Impact: A Voluntary Fee for Conservation

For the average person, this bill offers a simple, voluntary way to contribute to environmental protection. If you’re mailing holiday cards or sending out invoices, choosing this stamp means you’re directly funding efforts to protect native ecosystems. If you work in construction, farming, or landscaping, you know firsthand the economic damage caused by unchecked invasive species—from ruined timber supplies to contaminated waterways. This funding stream aims to mitigate those costs. Because the purchase is voluntary, the financial burden falls only on those who choose to buy the stamp, making it a dedicated, fee-based funding model rather than a tax increase. It’s a low-effort way to put a little cash toward a big problem, and the bill’s clear two-year limit and 25% cost cap keep the program focused and accountable.