Whatever the unintended consequences, a number of states have been considering cigarette tax hikes. Since 2009, for instance, new cigarette tax hikes have been proposed in Michigan,[67] Ohio,[68] Illinois[69] and California.[70] We have generated forecasts of the effects if these were adopted.
[67] Monica Scott, “Proposed Increase of Michigan Beer, Cigarette Taxes to Boost State Revenue Draws Fire from Industry, Lawmakers,” The Grand Rapids Press, Aug. 3, 2009, http://bit.ly/17jOAp (accessed Nov. 4, 2010).
[68] Brad Bauer, “Taxing Tobacco: Ohio Lawmakers Consider Hike in Statewide Rates,” The Marietta Times, Sept. 16, 2010, http://bit.ly/bg5pzv (accessed Nov. 2, 2010).
[69] Illinois Senate Bill 44 Engrossed, http://bit.ly/fzGUf6 (accessed Nov. 2, 2010).
[70] “Qualified Statewide Ballot Measures” (California Secretary of State, 2010), http://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/ballot-measures/qualified-ballot-measures.htm (accessed Nov. 12, 2010).