The Nebraska Legislature is considering several bills that would increase taxes on cigarettes and all other tobacco products, including imposing a tax on e-cigarettes.
Regular and significant increases in the tax on cigarettes and all tobacco products have been proven to be one of the most effective ways to prevent kids from starting a lifelong addiction as well as to help adults quit.
As we are facing a pressing epidemic of youth and young adults using e-cigarettes, it is important that e-cigarettes be taxed and regulated in the same manner as cigarettes and other tobacco products.
Failing to tax and include e-cigarettes in proven tobacco control policies has in part contributed to this epidemic.
The tobacco industry knows how effective taxes are in curbing smoking rates, which is why it will do everything it can to stop effective bills.
It’s up to us to call on our lawmakers to pass a $1.50-per-pack tax increase on cigarettes with an equivalent tax increase on all other tobacco products and e-cigarettes.
Join me in calling on all senators in the Nebraska Legislature to support this important public health measure. Together we can protect our health and protect our kids.
Jenny Johnson, Omaha
Volunteer, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
https://www.omaha.com/opinion/the-public-pulse-support-for-parochial-sch...