TAX: Charge more for tobacco

As our legislators face decisions to make deep cuts to our state's budget that will affect programs that benefit us all, there will be a proposal to increase the tax on cigarettes by approximately $1.25 per pack and on other tobacco products by a similar amount. The increase in tax is an effort to positively improve the health of Idahoans by reducing the harmful effects of smoking to all who share our air. Family physicians around the state urge you to support this effort.

Studies, and experience in other states, show that higher cigarette fees are one of the most effective ways to reduce and prevent smoking among youth and adults. The 2005 report by the Task Force on Community Preventative Services shows for every 10 percent increase in the retail price of cigarettes, there is a 7 percent drop in youth smoking and total cigarette consumption is reduced by 4 percent. A $1.25 increase in cigarette tax in Idaho would decrease youth cigarette use by an estimated 19 percent with many youth deciding never to begin smoking.

Currently Idaho's cigarette tax at $0.57 per pack remains one of the lowest tobacco taxes, ranking 42nd nationwide. Idaho's neighboring states all have higher tobacco tax rates.

Raising the tobacco tax will prevent premature smoking related death, keep kids from starting to smoke, help adults quit and save health care costs for all of us. Please join your family doctor in support of increasing the tobacco tax.

SCOTT DUNN, M.D.

Sandpoint