    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book II)]
    [August 13, 1997]
    [Pages 1099-1100]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Signing the Stamp Out Breast Cancer Act
    August 13, 1997

        Today, I signed into law H.R. 1585, the ``Stamp Out Breast Cancer
    Act.'' This legislation requires the U.S. Postal Service to establish a
    special rate of postage for first-class mail that patrons may use
    voluntarily to contribute to funding for breast cancer research. Special
    postal stamps will be made available for this purpose.

    [[Page 1100]]

        Research and the prompt application of research results are the
    strongest weapons we have against breast cancer. Today, breast cancer
    remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women. It affects one
    in eight women in their lifetimes and has touched the families of nearly
    every American, including my own. But we are making great strides in the
    study of this disease. Our goal must be to find a cure and a way to
    prevent breast cancer in the near future.
        The bill I am signing into law today builds on this Administration's
    long history of support for breast cancer research and prevention.
    Between 1993 and 1997, funding for breast cancer research at NIH
    increased 75 percent. We will work to ensure that the new funds from
    this legislation are not used as a replacement for our current
    commitment. It creates another way for Americans to further support the
    important research that will make a difference in the lives of millions
    of families.

    Note: H.R. 1585, approved August 13, was assigned Public Law No. 105-41.