Julia MacDonald, the Maine government relations director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, highlights the high number of smoking-related cancer deaths in Maine, making it the 8th highest in the country. Governor Janet Mills has proposed a $1 cigarette tax increase as a solution, supported by evidence that it is an effective way to prevent tobacco use and help people quit smoking.
However, Big Tobacco has been resisting the tax increase by spreading false narratives and targeting specific populations, including those with limited incomes. Despite this, studies show that increasing cigarette taxes can reduce youth smoking by 7% and help 3,200 adults quit smoking.
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network supports the tax increase, emphasizing that it is an effective way to reduce tobacco use and ultimately decrease cancer-related deaths. They urge policymakers to not be swayed by Big Tobacco’s misleading concerns and prioritize public health over corporate profits.
By implementing the proposed tax increase, Maine can continue to stand out for its positive attributes and not for its high smoking rates. The health benefits of reducing tobacco use are clear, especially for vulnerable populations targeted by the tobacco industry. It is essential to take action to protect public health and save lives by combating tobacco use in the state.
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