SMOKING COSTS MORE THAN JUST YOUR HEALTH

For many years people have talked about the tax the government has imposed on tobacco. This tax is called a sin tax. But what does that mean?

Sin tax (n.) - a tax imposed by the government to help reduce the supply of goods that the government considers harmful to the public.

The tax on tobacco has been controversial but when reading facts about the effects of smoking, it becomes clear as to why this tax is a great idea.

THE EFFECTS OF SMOKING

• On average, smokers die 13 to 14 years earlier than nonsmokers.
• 8.6 million people live with a serious illness caused by smoking
• Smoking slows down lung growth in children and teens.

The tax on tobacco has caused a decrease in the amount of tobacco products purchased by the public.

Real world example:
Between 2000 and 2010 the state of New York increased the tax on tobacco three times.

After the third increase the adult smokers rate in New York fell way below the national average.

"The tax on tobacco makes people second guess if it is really worth what you are spending on it." -Alyssa Lawson

SOURCES

• http://publichealthlawcenter.org/sites/default/files/resources/tclc-fs-toba...
• http://betobaccofree.hhs.gov/about-tobacco/facts-figures/index.html

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