News
Big Wins in Vermont
May 4, 2012
Just recently, Vermont had three big legislative wins:
- Indoor Tanning Ban on Minors - Following California's law that was passed late last year, Vermont has passed an indoor tanning ban for all minors under the age of 18.ξ This new law aligns with American Cancer Society and ACS CAN's policy standards established in March 2010.ξ This is also a great victory during May's Skin Cancer Awareness Month.
- Tobacco Control Funding - $500K increase to Vermont's Tobacco Control Program aimed at increasing cessation and prevention services through the Department of Health.
- Tobacco Tax Equity on other tobacco products:ξξ Due to significant price differences between little cigars and cigarettes, the tobacco companies were able to find a loophole in the tax system to create products that are more appealing to youth due to the low cost and flavoring of these products.ξ Vermont was able to secure a tobacco tax equity provision in the Misc. Tax bill which redefines little cigar category by raising the poundage in the tax structure which will increase the tax placed on little cigars (doubling the price) bringing them up to the same level as cigarettes.ξξ Having little cigars taxed on the same level as cigarettes makes them less appealing to youth.
Congratulations to Vermont on these victories!