Lung Association Reacts to Governor Spitzer’s State of the State Address, Renews Call for Increased Excise Tax

ALBANY, NY (01/09/2008)(readMedia)-- As Governor Spitzer declared in today's State of the State address, New York State has battled "lung cancer by making smoking more expensive and inconvenient." That is why the American Lung Association once again calls on Governor Spitzer and the New York State legislature to make saving lives a priority this legislative session by increasing the excise tax on cigarettes. New York can further reduce smoking levels and also increase funding for tobacco control programs by enacting an additional $1.50 in the state tobacco excise tax. Increased cigarette costs will not only lead to increased state revenue, but more importantly will create an economic incentive for smokers to quit their deadly addiction.