313% hike in Nebraska cigarette tax unfair [Video]

Nebraska is at a crossroads as discussions about a proposed tobacco tax increase gain momentum. While the intention behind such measures often revolves around health concerns and revenue generation, it is crucial that lawmakers study the potential negative consequences, particularly for low-income individuals, fixed-income seniors, and small businesses. As Gov. Jim Pillen seeks ways to reduce property taxes, he is proposing a tobacco tax hike that would include a $2 per cigarette pack tax increase. This 313% increase is regressive, unjust, and discriminatory.

The governor estimates the cigarette tax increase will raise $515 million over the next five years, but 54% of Nebraska smokers have household incomes of less than $50,000 a year and will pay $278 million of those taxes over that same time period, while only 14% earn $100,000 a year. This shows that the burden of the tax increase would fall heavily on those who can least …