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Deal says he would sign cigarette tax increase bill if elected governor  

But GOP governor-hopeful still is wary of pushing for bill
Jump to full article: Savannah (GA) Morning News, 2009-11-19
Author: Larry Peterson

Intro:

U.S. Rep. Nathan Deal says he'd sign a bill raising the state cigarette tax $1 a pack if he's elected governor next year.

Campaigning this week in Savannah, Deal said the bill deserves consideration, but added he probably wouldn't push for its passage.

The Gainesville lawmaker's comments are the closest any GOP candidate for governor has come to backing the proposal.

The proposal by state Rep. Ron Stephens, R-Savannah, has been opposed by the GOP majorities in the House and Senate.

But some experts say it may get another look when the legislature reconvenes Jan. 11 and tries to grapple with a worsening budget crisis.

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