Increasing taxes on tobacco products is one of the most effective ways to
reduce youth smoking. In fact, for every 10 percent increase in the cost
of a pack of cigarettes, smoking among youth will be reduced by approximately
seven percent; overall cigarette consumption will be reduced by three to
five percent. (1) By increasing tobacco taxes, states can reduce overall
health care costs. In 2002, SmokeLess States and several of its national
partners challenged governors to increase state cigarette taxes. More than
14 states increased taxes on cigarettes in 2002.
To learn more about the benefits of higher cigarette taxes on reducing smoking
rates and health care costs, click here.
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