LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Michigan smokers could find their habit is a lot more expensive, or banned altogether if two Michigan lawmakers get their way.
State Representative Rachel Hood of Grand Rapids is proposing to increase Michigan’s tax on a pack of cigarettes by another $1.50 which would increase the total tax to $3.50 a pack. She also wants to tax vaping at the same rate.
She hopes this would encourage more to quit.
State Representative Thomas Alberts has also proposed a ban on vaping and possession of vaping equipment by anyone under 18.
His bill will be considered by the House Regulatory Reform Committee on Tuesday.
Lobbyists for the tobacco industry say it would just drive more smokers to Indiana to buy cigarettes and promote smuggling.
(copy written by John McNeill)
