Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor:

Increasing Iowa’s cigarette tax by $1 per pack with 10 cents of the increase going to reduce tobacco use is a WIN, WIN, WIN solution for Iowa!

WIN #1: Fewer kids smoking. Every state that has significantly increased its tobacco tax has seen a reduction in youth smoking. An increase of $1 per pack in Iowa’s cigarette tax would reduce youth smoking by 19.5%.

WIN #2: Increased revenue for Iowa. Every state that has significantly increased its cigarette tax has enjoyed substantial increases in revenue, even while reducing smoking. A $1 per pack will raise an estimated $163 million for Iowa.

WIN#3: The public supports it. 71% of Iowa voters support an increase of $1. Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike want elected officials to increase Iowa’s tobacco taxes to help prevent kids from smoking.

Since January 2002, 38 states have significantly increased their cigarette tax. Our neighbors in Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin are currently considering proposals to increase their cigarette taxes by $1 and Illinois by $.75. Selling cheap tobacco is not something for which our state should be proud.

You have a golden opportunity, as an Iowa resident, to talk with your legislators to fill the gap in the state’s budget by passing good public health policy. I encourage you to tell them to support a $1 increase in Iowa’s tobacco tax with 10 cents of the increase going to prevent kids from smoking and to help current smokers quit. Let your voice be heard. Go to www.legis.state.ia.us to find your legislators and contact information.

Laurie Schultz, Program Director

Deidre Vick-Froehlich, Prevention Coordinator

Substance Abuse Services for Clayton County, Inc.