Statement: $1.50 Increase in Tobacco Tax Will Reduce Youth Smoking, Save Lives

MEDIA STATEMENT

For immediate release: June 11, 2025

Contact: Matt Wellington (mwellington@mainepublichealth.org; 845-591-5646) 

          Statement: $1.50 Increase in Tobacco Tax Will Reduce Youth Smoking, Save Lives 

AUGUSTA-- The Joint Standing Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs voted on Wednesday to include a $1.50 increase of the cigarette tax, with a corresponding tax increase for other tobacco products, in the state budget proposal. The move raises the tax to $3.50 per pack of 20 cigarettes. If signed into law, this will mark the first time Maine has raised its tobacco tax–a proven strategy to reduce youth tobacco use–in 20 years.

In response, Matthew Wellington, Associate Director of Maine Public Health Association, released the following statement:

“Governor Mills took an important step by including a tobacco tax increase in her proposed budget. We applaud members of the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee for moving that proposal forward, and even going a bit further. Raising the tobacco tax is an evidence-based policy that reduces youth tobacco use and helps ensure that the next generation of Maine youth grows up free from tobacco addiction and harm. It’s a long overdue step that will save lives and help reduce the burden of cancer in Maine communities.”

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Maine Public Health Association is dedicated to promoting the health of all people and places in Maine