Stamp Out Lyme Disease Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Gottheimer, Josh [D-NJ-5]
- Committees
- Energy and Commerce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Aug 15, 2025
Bottom line
The bill creates a voluntary public funding mechanism for Lyme disease research through the sale of a special postage stamp, aiming to increase research funds without impacting existing federal appropriations.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the United States Postal Service (USPS) to issue a "Lyme Disease Research Semipostal Stamp." The proceeds from the sale of this stamp, beyond the regular postage cost, will be transferred to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) to fund research into Lyme disease and related tick-borne illnesses. The stamp is required to be available for purchase for a minimum of six years.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue this bill provides a simple, voluntary, and effective way for the public to contribute to critical Lyme disease research. They highlight the significant public health burden and economic cost of Lyme disease, emphasizing the urgent need for more funding for improved diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of persistent symptoms. The semipostal stamp mechanism allows individuals to directly support a cause they care about without requiring new taxpayer appropriations.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that while the intent is good, semipostal stamps typically generate relatively small amounts of funding compared to the scale of the problem and the overall NIH budget, potentially creating a false sense of comprehensively addressing the issue. Some might also raise concerns about the administrative costs associated with issuing and managing such stamps, which could diminish the net proceeds for research.
The bill is exceptionally short and easy to read, allowing ample time for a thorough understanding of its provisions.
Section 2(b), Section 3(a)
Mandate for Lyme Disease Research Semipostal Stamp Issuance
This provision directs the U.S. Postal Service to create and sell a special postage stamp, known as a semipostal stamp, dedicated to Lyme disease research. A semipostal stamp is sold at a price higher than the cost of regular postage, with the additional amount typically going to a specific cause. This stamp is intended to provide a convenient way for the public to contribute to research efforts for Lyme disease and related tick-borne illnesses.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision offers a unique and accessible avenue for public engagement and fundraising for a critical health issue. It leverages the widespread use of postal services to generate awareness and funds without imposing new taxes or mandatory spending.
Critics contend
Critics might suggest that relying on voluntary stamp purchases for research funding is an insufficient and potentially unreliable mechanism for addressing a significant public health challenge, arguing that more substantial and consistent federal appropriations are needed.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies between providing a voluntary funding option and the potential for it to be seen as a substitute for more robust, direct federal funding. It balances public engagement with the scale of the funding needed for a widespread health issue.
Section 3(b)
Allocation of Funds to NIAID and Protection from Funding Offsets
This section specifies that all funds generated from the sale of the Lyme Disease Research Semipostal Stamp, beyond the standard postage value, will be transferred to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) for Lyme disease and related tick-borne illness research. Crucially, it also states that these funds cannot be used to reduce or offset other federal appropriations or funding levels for NIAID, ensuring that the stamp proceeds represent additional, supplemental funding.
Section 3(c)
Minimum Six-Year Availability Period
This provision mandates that the Lyme Disease Research Semipostal Stamp must be made available to the public for a minimum period of six years. Furthermore, the issuance of the stamp must begin no later than 12 months after the date the bill is enacted into law. This ensures a sustained period for public contribution and fundraising, allowing for long-term awareness and revenue generation.