Oklahoma is our home. For me, it is where I am raising my two young sons. I think often about their health and future. When given the opportunity to do something to ensure that they grow up happy and healthy in an Oklahoma where we place a priority on reducing the smoking rate of the youth in our great state, I am going to stand up and take action. Will you act with me today?
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The Oklahoma Legislature is considering a $1.50 per pack increase in the cigarette tax this legislative session. This increase will have the dual benefits of reducing the number of smokers, while also reducing the health care costs associated with tobacco related illnesses. Revenue generated through the tax will go directly toward funding health care throughout Oklahoma, as outlined in House Bill 1841 by Representative Leslie Osborn.
House Bill 1841 will be heard in the House of Representatives Full Appropriations and Budget Committee and move on the the House floor. The time has come to urge representatives to show bold leadership and vote YES on this lifesaving legislation now.
Benefits of House Bill 1841 include:
• A 10% increase in the tax will lead to a 5-15% reduction in the use of those under 18 years of age and a 3-7% reduction for adults
• A reduction in tobacco-related deaths, which total 7,500 annually in Oklahoma
• A reduction in health care costs throughout the state, which is currently near $1.62 billion for tobacco related illnesses
Please CLICK HERE to send a message to your legislators showing that you support a $1.50 increase in the cigarette tax, and urge them to vote YES on House Bill 1841.
You're The Cure,
Liz Waggoner
Government Relations Director
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