Supporting Gov. DeWine’s Leadership
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids strongly supports Gov. Mike DeWine’s proposal to implement an Ohio cigarette tax increase. This initiative, included in his Executive Budget, aims to protect kids, improve public health, and reduce smoking rates statewide.
Why the Ohio Cigarette Tax Increase Matters
Research consistently shows that higher tobacco prices lead to lower tobacco use, especially among kids. A tax increase will:
- Prevent young people from starting tobacco use.
- Encourage current smokers to quit.
- Reduce healthcare costs for Ohioans and businesses.
Under Gov. DeWine’s plan, the revenue generated will help fund a proposed child tax credit. This initiative aims to lower childcare costs and help more Ohioans return to work.
Projected Benefits of Ohio Cigarette Tax Increase
A $1.50 per pack cigarette tax increase will have a major impact:
- Prevent 11,800 Ohio kids from becoming smokers.
- Help 43,900 adults quit smoking.
- Save 14,200 lives from smoking-related deaths.
- Reduce future healthcare costs by $714.8 million.
Reducing Smoking in Ohio’s Medicaid Population
This measure will also lower smoking rates among Medicaid recipients. Currently, nearly 40% of Ohio Medicaid enrollees smoke—more than double the statewide adult smoking rate of 18%.
A Commitment to Public Health
We thank Gov. DeWine for prioritizing the health of Ohioans, especially children. We look forward to working with state leaders to turn this proposal into action and protect future generations.
