Lung Assn. says Ohio should double cigarette tax

[Kolesar]

Akron Beacon Journal

http://www.ohio.com/news/ap?articleID=5348117

Published on Wednesday Sep 15, 2010

The American Lung Association is urging Ohio leaders to double the state's $1.25 tax on a pack of cigarettes.

The anti-smoking group released a study Wednesday showing an increase to $2.50 would provide the state with at least $350 million in additional annual revenue.

University of Illinois-Chicago economist Frank Chaloupka was the lead author of the study. He says hardcore smokers make cigarette taxes much more stable for states than income taxes.

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports a spokeswoman says Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland opposes a higher tax.
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