A “not-so-sweet 16” was recognized Friday at the Utah State Capitol as cancer survivors, patients, and caregivers united for Cancer Action Day. Advocates with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Day (ACS CAN) met with state lawmakers and urged them to support efforts to raise the state’s tax on cigarettes for the first time in 16 years.
During a program inside the Rotunda, which included a not-so-sweet-16 birthday cake and décor, advocates explained why lawmakers should vote YES to HB337. The proposal calls for a $2.00 per-pack cigarette tax increase, as well as increased taxes on other tobacco products.
“Supporting this bill means supporting the health of future generations of Utahns,” said Brook Carlisle. “It’s been far too long since the legislature last took steps to push back against the damage Big Tobacco is causing our state. This bill is a critical opportunity to reduce tobacco use, lower cancer rates, and ease the enormous health and financial burden tobacco places on Utah families.”
Smoking is currently responsible for more than 15% of cancer deaths, $630 million in annual health care costs including over $135 million in Medicaid expenses annually. Increasing the state’s cigarette tax by $2.00 per pack would reduce youth smoking by 13.6%, help 5,800 adults who smoke, quit, and save 2,100 lives.
Catherine Standiford, ACS CAN lead volunteer, and mother of teenage boys attended Friday’s event and shared her concerns with lawmakers.
“Big Tobacco continues to try to hook our children and young people on their products, including e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches.” said Standiford. “Tobacco use is a serious and life-threatening addiction. I’m advocating today so lawmakers hear that message clearly and know they hold the power in protecting our youth.”
The House Revenue and Taxation Committee recently voted in favor of HB 337 with a 9-2 vote. The bill is headed to House floor for a vote, next and ACS CAN urges all representatives to vote YES.