AUGUSTA, ME – January 13, 2025 – Last week, Maine Governor Janet Mills released her proposed budget for 2025. In response, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Maine Government Relations Director Julia MacDonald praised Governor Mills with the following statement:
“In proposing to increase Maine’s tax on cigarettes $1 per pack, Governor Mills’ has taken a historic step in the fight to curb tobacco product use among Mainers—adults and adolescents alike. An increase in the tax on cigarettes and other tobacco products will reduce Maine’s healthcare costs by millions of dollars, generate much needed revenue and result in significant health benefits. The tax is projected to prevent 700 Maine children from becoming adults who smoke, spur 3,200 adults to quit, and save 900 lives from smoking-related deaths.”
“The cancer community celebrates this decision to stand up to Big Tobacco. If lawmakers get behind the governor’s proposal to increase the tax on cigarettes and other tobacco products, as we urge them to do, Maine can expect cascading benefits—where residents are better equipped to fight tobacco addiction, kids are healthier and the air is cleaner.”
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About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.