Vape Live Showguide November 2020 | Page 20

VOTERS APPROVE TWO NEW STATE TAXES

Measures may hit low income minority groups hardest , critics say
Words : Gordon Stribling

VVoters in two US states have approved new taxes brought in to reduce youth use of vape products . In Colorado , Proposition EE will see vape products taxed at 30 percent of the manufacturer ’ s list price ( MLP ) from 2021 , gradually increasing to 62 percent by July 2027 . Meanwhile , the tax on a packet of cigarettes will increase from 84 cents to $ 2.64 by 2027 . More than 68 percent of votes were in favor of the measure . The money generated by the tax increase will support public health initiative , including vaping awareness and cessation programs . Amie Baca-Oehlert , president of the Colorado Education Association , said the measure would help to decrease youth vaping : She said : “ We see that every day in our schools with our students and the negative impacts that vaping has on our students .” However , A Bad Deal For Colorado who opposed the measure , said it was ‘ disappointed ’ with the outcome . The group spokesperson said in a press release : “ As our economy recovers from COVID-19 , now is not the time to raise taxes on any Colorado voter .”

Meanwhile , voters in Oregon approved Measure 108 , with 66 percent supporting and 33 percent opposed at the time of writing . The new e-cigarette tax will see vape products taxed at 65 percent , plus a $ 2-per-pack increase on cigarettes . The state estimates that the new taxes will generate around $ 160 million a year . The measure will see 90 percent going to Oregon Health Authority to support medical costs and the rest to support smoking cessation efforts among minority groups with high levels of tobacco use . Elisabeth Shepard , campaign manager for the Yes on 108 campaign , said : “ Tonight ’ s victory sends a very strong message that once again Oregonians show overwhelmingly the value of health and health care access for all of our neighbors . " And will show up in force to protect them while also reducing one of the biggest threats to our kids health .” The Taxpayer ’ s Association of Oregon urged voters to reject the measure , saying that it would disproportionately affect those on lower incomes who are more likely to use nicotine and tobacco products . The group also argued that the measure would disproportionately effect small retailers who sold tobacco products such as e-cigarettes .
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