Thursday, the Indiana legislature passed the budget increasing tobacco taxes, which will help prevent tobacco use and help those already addicted quit.
The following statement can be attributed to Allie Kast Gregg, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network government relations director:
“The budget passed by the legislature is a significant win in the fight against cancer and for the health of Hoosiers. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) applauds the state for prioritizing the health of Hoosiers by including a $2 per pack cigarette tax increase, as well as tax increases on other tobacco products. These two actions will ease the burden of cancer for Hoosiers and improve Hoosiers' health overall by preventing tobacco use.
“Increasing tobacco taxes is one of the most effective ways to reduce tobacco use, especially among kids. This $2.00 per pack increase is estimated to help 32,400 adults quit, keep 7,000 youth from becoming adults who smoke and generate $318.42 million in new annual revenue.
“At a time when tobacco use is skyrocketing among youth, ACS CAN commends the actions taken today that will generate revenue, reduce health care costs, protect kids and save lives.”
Anyone looking for help to quit smoking or to quit using other tobacco products should call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
IHSAA approves Personal Branding, while basketball shot clock proposal fails
USDA opens enrollment for Grassland Conservation Reserve Program
Knox County farm to be featured at Indiana State Fair
Lawrence County election lottery coming up
City of Lawrenceville takes possession of old school building
Illinois AG still looking into dispatchers in Edgar County case
Work begins on OCC Science Labs project
One dead after Knox County collision
Flood warning extended for Embarras River at Lawrenceville
New online portal brings transparency to Indiana gas prices during declared energy emergency
Sumner police officer placed on administrative leave
Storm system rolls through region
Multiple charges filed against out of county man in Lawrence County
Two from Lawrence County receive prison terms
Two Lawrence County senior centers to reopen
CUSD #20 welcomes two new principals
Vincennes Police investigate business scams
