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Tax hike proposed on cigarettes in Vermont

By Staff Writer

Many Americans who are regular smokers pay hundreds of dollars to maintain their nicotine addiction. Now, cigarette users in Vermont may have to start paying more if a new tax goes into effect.

Recently, anti-tobacco lobbyists in Vermont proposed an increase in the cigarette tax by $1, according to the Associated Press. Currently, the tax is set at $2.24 across the state. Advocates hope that the legislation is passed in an effort to deter individuals from smoking.

Representatives from groups, including the American Lung Association and the American Heart Association, came together to propose the tax increase to the state government. They argued that the legislation would not only help to reduce the number of smokers, but lower healthcare costs as well.

Governor Peter Shumlin recently proposed a $2.1 million tax cut to tobacco control efforts across the state. Tax increase advocates argue that if their goal becomes a reality, the money could make up for that loss and raise five times the amount necessary to save tobacco control programs.

On average, smokers live approximately 13 years less than individuals who do not use cigarettes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Drug rehab centers can help people who are addicted to nicotine.