In February 2002, SmokeLess States -- joined by other national health organizations
-- called on the nation’s governors and state lawmakers to raise their
state’s cigarette tax to combat youth smoking, reduce long-term health
care costs, and save lives. Since the Challenge, 16 states, New York City
and Puerto Rico have passed higher cigarette taxes. An ongoing initiative,
the Tobacco Tax Challenge is aiding efforts by concerned lawmakers, health
organizations, tobacco control groups and others to continue to reduce smoking.
