According to the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network, on Tuesday, the Indiana legislature passed the budget, sending it to the conference committee. Unfortunately, this version of the budget does not include increased tobacco taxes or funding for programs that help prevent tobacco use and help those already addicted quit.
Allie Kast Gregg, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network government relations director, said, “The budget passed by the legislature today does not include tobacco tax increases or adequate funding for tobacco control. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) urges the conference committee to prioritize the health of Hoosiers by including a $2 per pack cigarette tax increase with a parallel tax on all other tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, and an increase in funding to $15 million annually for tobacco prevention and cessation programs to ease the burden of cancer for Hoosiers.”
Gregg went on to say, “Increasing tobacco taxes is one of the most effective ways to reduce tobacco use, especially among kids. Additionally, a well-funded, fact-based tobacco control program is needed to counteract the $293.3 million per year that tobacco companies spend to market their deadly and addictive products in Indiana. At a time when tobacco use is skyrocketing among youth, we must take action that would generate revenue, protect kids, and save lives.”
In closing, Gregg commented, “ACS CAN calls on the conference committee to prioritize Hoosier health and kids over Big Tobacco by significantly increasing tobacco taxes while further investing in tobacco control to generate revenue, reduce health care costs, protect kids and save lives.
Pair of traffic stops net arrests
Eagles look to soar to sectional crown
Riverton Parke looks to get over sectional hump
FAA calls for airline traffic reduction to begin Friday
Central Indiana Land Trust names nature preserve to honor Efroymson family
Select Wings Etc. locations offering free entrée on Veterans Day
Tips for Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month
FSSA statement on SNAP benefits, one week delay
Gov. Braun orders flags to half-staff in honor of former Vice President Dick Cheney
Free admission to DNR properties for veterans, active-duty military, Nov. 11
Indiana Grown Holiday Box highlights local businesses for the third year
Christmas Nights of Lights returns to the Indiana State Fairgrounds
Indiana State Police wants everyone to stay safe this Halloween
Nominations being accepted for Indiana Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) of the Year
BMV warns customers of new scam text messages
National FFA Convention & Expo to call Indy home through 2040
Tortoises taken from Indianapolis Zoo found safe in Madison County park
INDOT has plans to expand electric vehicle charging
PH FFA competed in area and state Livestock Skillathon
Wednesday is Buckle Up Phone Down Day in Indiana
