Tobacco.org

Florida's $1 Cigarette Tax Increase a Big Win for Public Health 

The State of Florida took a major step forward to save lives and protect children yesterday when Governor Charlie Crist signed a $1 per pack surcharge into law. Additionally, the governor and legislature through the budget dramatically increased funding for smoking cessation services for Floridians, including monies for the state's toll-free QuitLine (877-U-CAN-NOW).

Florida's cigarette tax had been the fourth lowest in the nation. When the surcharge goes into effect July 1, Florida's taxes will rank 22nd.

"You cannot be serious about cancer control if you are not serious about tobacco control, and today the governor and the Florida Legislature proved their mettle in that regard," said Marty Larsen, chairman of the Board and president of the American Cancer Society's Florida Division. "This will reduce smoking and save lives."

The American Cancer Society, along with its advocacy affiliate the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) and other coalition partners, advocated for this increase as a way to improve the public's health.

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