WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 4318

A bill to amend title 39, United States Code, to extend the authority of the United States Postal Service to issue a semipostal to raise funds for breast cancer research.

119th Congress Introduced by Shelley Moore Capito and 5 co-sponsors

Authorizes USPS to issue a breast cancer semipostal stamp to raise funds for research, with oversight, reporting, and a defined duration.

Introduced in Senate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 4318

Summary: S. 4318 (119th Congress) — A bill to amend title 39, United States Code, to extend the authority of the United States Postal Service to issue a semipostal to raise funds for breast cancer research

Purpose and intent

  • The primary goal of S. 4318 is to extend and authorize the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to issue a semipostal stamp specifically to raise funds for breast cancer research.
  • Semipostal stamps are special postage stamps that cost slightly more than the standard postage and allocate the excess revenue to a designated charitable or public purpose. This bill seeks to authorize continued use of such a fundraising mechanism for breast cancer research.

Key provisions (anticipated or typical elements in semipostal legislation)

  • Amend Title 39, United States Code, to extend USPS authority to issue a semipostal stamp dedicated to breast cancer research (the exact rate differential and duration would be detailed in the final statutory text).
  • Define the purpose of the semipostal proceeds (breast cancer research funding) and the governing process for collection and allocation of the additional funds.
  • Establish oversight and reporting requirements to ensure accountability in the use of semipostal proceeds (e.g., annual reporting on funds raised, how the money is spent, and any related administrative costs).
  • Set a sunset or expiration date for the program or outline conditions for renewal, if applicable.
  • Clarify any statutory limitations on the stamp’s issuance, such as sale duration, maximum surcharge, compliance with USPS pricing rules, and coordination with other USPS fundraising programs.

Who is affected

  • The United States Postal Service would administer and issue the semipostal stamp, manage the surcharge, and disburse funds to approved breast cancer research initiatives.
  • Breast cancer research organizations and related public health research programs may benefit from increased financial support derived from stamp surcharges.
  • Stamp collectors and the general public who purchase the semipostal stamp would contribute indirectly to breast cancer research through the modest price premium.
  • Oversight and accountability entities (e.g., Congress, USPS governance structures) would receive reports on fundraising efficiency and impact.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs on 2026-04-16.
  • As a committee-referred measure, it would undergo committee consideration, potential markups, and then move through the normal Senate floor process, subject to scheduling and votes.
  • The bill includes sponsors and co-sponsors, indicating bipartisan and bicameral interest; listed co-sponsors include Jacky Rosen, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Jeanne Shaheen, Shelley Moore Capito, Ashley Moody, and Mazie Hirono.
  • If enacted, the statute would specify the effective date, duration, and any renewal mechanism for the semipostal program.

Potential impact and considerations

  • Revenue for breast cancer research would depend on the surcharge level, consumer demand for the semipostal stamp, and the duration of the program.
  • The approach continues the practice of leveraging consumer purchases to support a public health cause, potentially increasing public awareness alongside fundraising.
  • Policy considerations may include ensuring transparency in fund allocation, limiting administrative costs, and balancing stamp pricing with standard postal rates.

Notes:
- This summary reflects the bill’s stated purpose and typical structural elements of semipostal authorization legislation. The precise surcharge amount, duration, allocation mechanics, and reporting requirements would be detailed in the final text of the bill once enacted.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.