Ohio lawmakers reject proposed cigarette tax increase

Ohio lawmakers have decided against raising the cigarette tax despite emotional pleas from families affected by cancer. Vince Marchetta, a father from Akron, shared his story about the loss of his wife, Betsy, who died from cervical cancer in 2019. Marchetta is now advocating for a higher cigarette tax as a way to prevent others from facing similar tragedies. He supports Governor Mike DeWine’s proposal to increase the tax by $1.50, which aims to fund tobacco prevention programs and provide a $1,000 tax credit for parents with young children. Teenagers like Marianna Packer also voiced their support, arguing that a higher tax would make cigarettes less affordable for kids. Current taxes on cigarettes are already set at $1.60 per pack, which would rise to $3.10 if the proposal passed. However, some Republican lawmakers, including House Finance Chair Brian Stewart, oppose the tax increase. They believe cigarettes are already heavily taxed. Stewart emphasized the importance of respecting individual freedom in choosing what to consume. Senate President Rob McColley warned that increasing the tax might hurt the state’s budget in the long term, as cigarette tax revenues have been declining. Marchetta remains hopeful, suggesting that even if the changes save just one life, it will be worth it. Lawmakers plan to continue discussing the tax proposal in the weeks ahead.