Washington Democrats have proposed House Bill 2382, which would increase the state’s cigarette tax by roughly 66%, adding $2 per pack. The bill also seeks to amend the vapor tax to 95% of the sales price. Proponents argue this will fund public health and reduce addiction, while opponents raise concerns about the economic impact.
Key Takeaways:
- Cigarette Tax Hike: Proposed $2 increase brings the tax to $5.02 per pack.
- Vape Tax Change: Shifts to a 95% tax on the sales price.
- Health Funding: Revenue aims to cover a $3.2 billion healthcare impact gap.
- Public Divide: Hearing attendees were split, with 142 supporting and 163 opposing.
Washington lawmakers are debating a significant tax overhaul that could see the cost of cigarettes and vaping products skyrocket. In a recent House Finance Committee hearing, Democrats unveiled a proposal to raise the cigarette tax by 66% and fundamentally restructure how vapor products are taxed, aiming to address a looming budget shortfall and fund critical public health programs.
The Proposed Tax Increases
House Bill 2382 introduces aggressive fiscal measures targeting nicotine products. Rep. Lisa Parshley (D-Olympia) emphasized that it has been over 16 years since the state last increased the cigarette tax, despite healthcare costs associated with smoking now estimated at $3.2 billion annually.
| Product | Current Tax Structure | Proposed New Tax |
|---|---|---|
| Cigarettes | $3.02 per pack | +$2.00 (Total ~$5.02) |
| Vapor Products | Volume-based tax | 95% of Sales Price |
Public Health vs. Economic Impact
Supporters like Audrey Miller Garcia of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network argue that significant tax hikes are the “most effective tool” to curb addiction. She projects that a $2 increase could save the state over $350 million in long-term healthcare costs.
However, the proposal faces resistance. Following the hearing, public feedback was divided, with 163 attendees opposing the bill compared to 142 in support, highlighting the contentious nature of increasing costs for consumers and businesses.
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