Today, roughly 500 advocates, including 300 students, from across the state traveled to the Statehouse to meet with their elected officials during Tobacco Free Indiana Advocacy Day. They told lawmakers that Indiana can and must do better to reduce the toll of tobacco on Hoosiers.
Advocates met with lawmakers to ask them to increase the state’s cigarette tax by $2.00 per pack and the tax on all other tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, parallel to the new cigarette tax. Increasing Indiana’s cigarette tax by $2.00 per pack would generate over $318 million in new annual revenue, keep 7,000 kids from becoming adults who smoke, help 32,400 adults who currently smoke quit and save 9,900 lives.
Furthermore, advocates shared that lawmakers must increase the state's investment to $15 million for programs that prevent tobacco use and help those already addicted quit. In taking these actions, Indiana will take a decisive step towards reducing tobacco use and its devastating toll on our communities.
Over 42,000 Hoosiers will be diagnosed with cancer, and over 14,000 are expected to die from the devastating disease this year. 33.8% of those cancer deaths will be caused by cigarette smoking. Those gathered at the Statehouse today are calling on Indiana lawmakers to change this by taking steps to prioritize the fight for a healthier Indiana by reducing tobacco use.
Lawrence County man sentenced to jail
Illinois drivers encouraged to do business online
Meta to pay up to $419M to Indiana, implement sweeping child-safety reforms on Instagram and Facebook
Wabash River crests at Vincennes; still under flood warning
Two new conditions now eligible for treatment with medical cannabis
Gov. Mike Braun orders flags lowered to half-staff in honor of Dolly Parton
Sumner election petitions available
New housing subdivision moving forward in Vincennes
Parkside Elementary will open next week
Restaurant at Red Hill State Park under new ownership
Bridgeport Water boil order lifted
Lawrence County Chamber recognizes Salyers; have begun executive director search
Lawrence County Board hears about data centers and the county jail
Parkside Elementary opening delayed again
Knox County's Clayton Newton earns honors at the Indiana State Fair
Indiana launches emergency program for veterans impacted by historical flooding
Illinois State Police deploy new Bicycle Response Team
