II 116th CONGRESS 1st Session S. 1716 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES June 4, 2019 Mr. Blumenthal (for himself, Mr. Manchin , and Mrs. Murray ) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs A BILL To provide for the issuance of a Gold Star Families Forever Stamp to honor the sacrifices of families who have lost a loved one who was a member of the Armed Forces in combat.

1. Gold Star Families Forever Stamp (a) Findings Congress finds that— (1) Gold Star families are true national heroes, who deserve our deepest gratitude and respect; and (2) the extraordinary contribution of Gold Star families is beyond measure, not merely for their loss, but the comfort they selflessly provide others and their model of service and sacrifice. (b) In general In order to continue to honor the sacrifices of families who have lost a loved one who was a member of the Armed Forces in combat, the Postmaster General shall provide for the issuance of a forever stamp suitable for that purpose. (c) Forever stamp defined In this section, the term forever stamp means a definitive stamp that— (1) meets the postage required for first-class mail up to 1 ounce in weight; and (2) retains full validity for the purpose described in paragraph (1) even if the rate of that postage is later increased. (d) Effective date The stamp described in subsection (b) shall be issued beginning as soon as practicable after the date of enactment of this Act and shall not thereafter be discontinued.