American Cancer Society Wants $1.50 Tax Increase On Cigarettes

UNDATED - The American Cancer Society is pushing for a tax increase on cigarettes as a way to help solve the state's budget deficit.

The organization is mobilizing volunteers to contact lawmakers and the governor and ask them to consider a $1.50 tax increase on a pack of cigarettes.  They say that would raise about $140 million in revenue this year.

They also say it could lead to over 28,000 adults quitting smoking.

Minnesota last raised the cigarette tax by .75 cents in August of 2005.

Minnesota is facing a $5 billion budget deficit over the next two years.

Your turn:
Tell us what you think about this idea on the WJON Facebook page.
Also, contact your local state lawmaker and tell them what you think.