Two pieces of legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) on Wednesday aim to combat and raise awareness about the negative impacts invasive species have on local ecosystems.
The Stamp Out Invasive Species Act, H.R. 5334, would direct the United States Postal Service (USPS) to issue a “Combating Invasive Species Semipostal Stamp.” Net proceeds of stamp sales would support USDA programs and Department of Interior programs that combat invasive species.
“Our environment is our lifeblood in the North Country and I am committed to preserving it for future generations,” Stefanik said. “These important pieces of legislation will help raise awareness about the threats these invasive species play in our natural ecosystems and will help combat these predators. This is an issue that must be addressed at the local, state and federal level, and I am proud to lead the effort in Congress.”
The more than 50,000 non-native invasive animal plant species being introduced to local habitats costs an estimated $100 billion annually, and every state has some form of invasive species impacting its natural biodiversity.
Stefanik also introduced a resolution that outlines the House of Representative’s commitment to combat invasive species threatening local ecosystems.
Fred Monroe, the executive director of the Adirondack Park Local Government Review Board, applauded Stefanik for her leadership on the issue.
“The Review Board applauds Congresswoman Stefanik for her leadership in introducing a bill today expressing the commitment of the U.S. House of Representatives to work constructively to combat invasive species and the very serious threat they pose to the environment and economy of the nation and the Adirondack region,” Monroe said. “Her companion bill to create a semipostal stamp to benefit programs to fight invasive species will help meet the urgent need of volunteers, not-for-profits and local governments for funding to preempt and prevent the introduction and spread of invasives.”
U.S. Reps. Chris Gibson (R-NY), Richard Hanna (R-NY), John Katko (R-NY), Erik Paulsen (R-MN), Robert Dold (R-IL) and Ryan Costello (R-PA) are original co-sponsors of the legislation.