According to a report by Halfwheel on January 12, Governor Janet Mills of Maine has released her two-year budget proposal, suggesting increases to tobacco taxes to achieve a balanced budget.
Mills pointed out that Maine's cigarette tax has not been adjusted since 2005 and currently stands at just $2 per pack. She proposed raising it to $3 per pack. The governor stated that currently, Maine has the lowest cigarette tax in the New England region, while the smoking rates among adults and teenagers are the first and second highest, respectively. These are the reasons she is pushing for a tax increase.
According to state law, if the cigarette tax is adjusted, the tax rate for other tobacco products must also be increased accordingly. The tax rate for cigars will be raised from 43% of the wholesale selling price to 65%. This new tax rate will also apply to chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes, and other products made from or containing natural or artificial nicotine.
According to supporting documents for the Miller proposal, it is estimated that raising tobacco taxes will generate an additional revenue of approximately $80 million for the state general fund over the next two years.
If the proposal is passed according to the current plan, the tax rate adjustment will take effect on January 5, 2026.
Notice
1. This article is provided exclusively for professional research purposes related to industry, technology and policy. Any reference to brands or products is made solely for the purpose of objective description and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or promotion of any brand or product.
2. The use of nicotine products, including but not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products, is associated with significant health risks. Users are required to comply with all relevant laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.
3. This article is strictly restricted from being accessed or viewed by individuals under the legal age.
Copyright
This article is either an original work by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with the original source clearly indicated. The copyright and usage rights of this article belong to 2Firsts or the original source. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other unauthorized use of this article by any entity or individual is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally responsible. For copyright-related matters, please contact: info@2firsts.com
AI Assistance Disclaimer
This article may have utilized AI to enhance translation and editing efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, errors may occur. Readers are advised to refer to the sources provided for more accurate information.
This article should not be used as a basis for any investment decisions or advice, and 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any errors in the content.
