Tobacco News and Interesting Information

Indianapolis - On the final day of the legislative session a final push for the cigarette tax increase.

Indiana State Health Department director Dr. Judy Monroe said, "We will see over 40,000 of our children never start smoking, we will see over 23,000 Hoosiers quit smoking just from the increase in the price of cigarettes."

Even third grader Cassie Denney had something to say about it, "I am asking you to pass house bill 1678. I think it will help keep kids from starting to smoke."

A 44 cent increase could raise the price of one pack of cigarettes to more than five dollars. Possibly enough pain the pocket to lower the second highest smoking rate in the country.

"I just can't afford it. So that's a good motivator to quit," said Kevin Mangum

Ben Baker said, "That's a little harsh on my pocket, but what can you do, it's not going to keep me from smoking. It's not going to keep me from buying cigarettes."

For those smokers who continue paying the extra cost: Lawmakers say the 200 million raised will provide Health Care for uninsured Hoosiers, immunizations for children, and lower health care costs incurred by smoking-related diseases.

"Billions of dollars a year in additional Hoosier health care spending because of tobacco," said FSSA head Mitch Roob.

Republican Senator David Long from Fort Wayne said, "I think it's fair and its reasonable to look at smoking and smokers and have them pay a fair share of what is costing everyone else who doesn't smoke to help with these health care costs."

The Daniels Administration praises the work of committee members on the health plan that also raises eligibility for low income children, includes tax credits for businesses offering health care, and expands pregnancy coverage.