Washington, DC —The U.S. Senate today voted to authorize the U.S. Postal Service to continue selling the Breast Cancer Research Stamp for at least two more years. The extension of the stamp was due to an amendment by Senator Dianne Feinstein (D.-Calif.) that was part of the Omnibus Appropriations Bill.

"The fact that the Senate voted to reauthorize the Breast Cancer Research Stamp is good news in the fight against breast cancer," Senator Feinstein said, noting that the House has already approved the bill and it now goes to the President for signature.

"The Breast Cancer Research Stamp is among the most successful commemorative stamps of all time with 485 million stamps sold,” Senator Feinstein said. This is second only to the Elvis stamp that had 517 million stamps printed. The stamp program has generated in excess of $34.5 million for Breast Cancer research. In my view, such an effective, widely-supported program should be allowed to continue."

Since the stamp was put into circulation in 1998 following passage of legislation introduced by Senator Feinstein and other members of Congress, it has raised more than $34 million for breast cancer research. Currently, the stamp sells for 45 cents, with 37 cents to pay for the stamp and 8 cents going for research.

The previous authorization expired December 31, 2003 and Postal Service officials said that the stamp will be available for sale once again as soon as President Bush signs the Omnibus Bill.

Today, breast cancer remains the leading cancer among women. In 2003, it is estimated that approximately 212,600 women and men will get breast cancer and 40,200 will die from the disease.