As your constituent and a pediatrician serving the children and families of Maine, I'm writing to ask for your support on the proposed $1.50 per pack tobacco tax increase included in the Biennial Budget released by AFA.
Concerningly, 22% of Maine high school students use tobacco, which is above the national average. Evidence shows that raising the price of tobacco products discourages youth initiation and supports adult cessation, and this $1 tax increase is estimated to prevent 700 Maine youth from becoming adult smokers - preventing disease and addiction, and saving lives.
We must do everything we can to build healthier futures for our youth. Raising the tobacco tax is an effective way to prevent youth use, while generating funds that can be used on prevention and cessation programs and support people who want to quit.
As a constituent and pediatrician, I ask that you support a budget which includes a $1.50 increase of the tobacco tax.
