Action Needed to Reduce the Burden of Cancer on Nebraskans
Statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Nebraska Government Relations Director Megan Word
“The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) will continue to urge the Nebraska state legislature to significantly increase the state cigarette tax with a parallel tax on all other tobacco products—providing a substantial source of revenue for the state and improving cancer outcomes for all Nebraskans.
“Governor Pillen proposed a $2.00 per pack tax increase on cigarettes earlier this year. Such an increase will reduce youth smoking by 15%, help 8,000 Nebraska adults who currently smoke quit, save 2,700 lives and generate over $73 million in new revenue for the state. Applying parallel taxes on all tobacco products such as e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, snuff and cigars, will further help improve cancer outcomes for Nebraskans by making tobacco harder to access.
“Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Significant tobacco tax increases are one of the most effective ways to prevent kids from starting to use tobacco and help adults quit. If we are serious about reducing the toll of preventable cancer and chronic disease in Nebraska, meaningful tax increases on all tobacco products will help us achieve that life-saving mission. ACS CAN remains committed to working with Nebraska lawmakers to reduce tobacco use and the state’s cancer burden.”
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