According to a report from KFYR on February 13, lawmakers in North Dakota, USA, are calling for tax reforms on tobacco and nicotine products.
House Bill 1570 proposes the first increase in taxes on cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products since 1993, as well as plans to impose additional taxes on e-cigarettes and other products such as nicotine pouches. Some of the tax revenue will be used to establish a Behavioral Health Fund.
The bill's sponsor, Representative Vicky Steiner, said that the purpose of the bill is not only to keep up with inflation, but also to prevent minors from using these products.
Retail store owners oppose this measure, arguing that they are not the source of underage use and labeling the bill as an attack on legal consumers. Mike Rud, president of the North Dakota Petroleum Marketers Association, stated: "We are providing them with products that they are legally allowed to purchase at their age. We see no reason to strip them of that or punish them by making them pay more.
A financial report indicates that this bill will increase revenue by $20 million every two years. The House Ways and Means Committee has not yet taken action on this, with some members questioning whether raising taxes can truly deter minors from using these products.
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.
