Let’s Rally! Speak Out on Federal Tobacco Tax Hikes

As if taxes on tobacco products weren’t high enough, lawmakers in Washington, D.C. are considering a massive increase in the federal excise tax on cigarettes, cigars, dip, and other tobacco products. Members of Congress are considering a proposal that would double the tax on cigarettes and cigars, and increase the tax on moist smokeless tobacco by almost 1,700%.

This federal excise tax increase would have serious implications for our industry, including our retailers, wholesalers, growers, and of course adult tobacco consumers. Last year alone, the government collected more than $44 billion in taxes and fees on tobacco. Adult tobacco consumers already pay their fair share in taxes and should not be singled out to pay for programs intended to benefit everyone.

If you oppose these massive tax hikes, you can speak out by sending a message to your members of Congress today.

Feel free to edit the draft letter to legislators and personalize your message before clicking “Take Action” to send your letter.

As you know, Congress is considering H.R. 2339, a bill that would raise the minimum age for tobacco products to 21 -- which I support -- but which also bans all flavored tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes, and flavored cigars and dip.

I am writing as a resident of your district and an employee of Altria,  asking you to oppose the menthol cigarette and traditional tobacco products flavors ban contained in H.R. 2339.

We all agree that kids should not use any tobacco products.  However, youth use of traditional tobacco products is at historic lows.  More should be done -- like raising the age of purchase to 21. But banning all traditional flavored tobacco products will do little to address the underage e-vapor issue and could create a large illegal market in bootleg tobacco products.  FDA already has the power to regulate flavors -- Congress should let FDA consider the science and evidence before deciding whether to ban large segments of traditional tobacco products enjoyed by millions of adults.

I greatly appreciate all you do for our community.  Please continue to oppose the ban on menthol cigarettes, flavored dip and cigars included in H.R. 2339.  Thank you for considering my views.

Simply review and edit your letter, fill out the privacy-protected registration form below, and then click 'Take Action' to send your letter to your elected officials.

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I confirm that I am at least 21 years of age.