Bid afoot in Maryland to raise tax on cigars and more

Wednesday, December 14 2011

The price of cigars in Maryland could go up soon if one of the state’s most prominent health advocates has his way.

Vincent DeMarco, president of the Maryland Citizens’ Health Initiative, says he will push the General Assembly in January to increase the state’s 15 percent excise tax on cigars and smokeless tobacco — a rate that has not changed since 1999.

Supporters of an increase say it will deter underage smokers who increasingly have turned to cigars and chewing tobacco as cheaper alternatives to cigarettes, but opponents say the added tax will be nothing more than a drain on local businesses.

Mr. Hill's article continues at washingtontimes.com...