Much of this proposal is based on former bills and legislation waged against the tobacco industry that never received final passing. This includes the Mothers and Offspring Mortality & Morbidity Awareness (MOMMA) Act [read more here] and the Tobacco Tax Equity Act, proposed by Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). Much of the burden of these higher taxes will impact tobacco manufacturers and the higher cost of doing business will likely be passed on to retailers and consumers.
In a statement posted on social media, the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) noted that these proposed tax hikes are a threat to premium handmade cigars and pipe tobacco products and that this new proposal violates the pledge not to raise taxes on those making less than $400,000 annually; could raise taxes on an industry already facing steep regulations; and that the proposed tax increases likely would not pull in the estimated revenue but will destroy jobs and negatively impact small businesses within the cigar and pipe tobacco space.
You can voice your opposition to the proposed tobacco taxes by sending a message to your representative by completing this form.
