Multinational Species Conservation Funds Semipostal Stamp Reauthorization Act of 2019

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Clay for this legislation and for his being amenable to changes that make this bill one that every Member can support.

This legislation raises money through the voluntary purchases of a special stamp that in turn funds valuable conservation efforts of iconic global species such as tigers, elephants, rhinos, great apes, marine turtles, and their habitats.

Anyone who wants to help these efforts can do so by purchasing these stamps; a small surcharge for which is then deposited in the Multinational Species Conservation Funds. These funds in turn provide grants for conservation work around the globe. To date, over $5.7 million have been raised by this low-key and entirely voluntary effort.

While the authority to sell these popular stamps has expired, the stockpile of 49 million stamps still exists. Mr. Clay accepted amendments to allow the stockpile to be depleted before new stamps are printed that prevents waste and protects taxpayers.

International conservation of these important species is a shared goal of both Democrats and Republicans, and this bill is a very good example of that seemingly rare opportunity for all of us to come together for the benefit of wildlife, their habitat, and, of course, the American people who enjoy both for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I urge adoption of the measure, and I yield back the balance of my time.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source