The most recent state budget calls for more than doubling the tax on cigarettes, officially making it the highest cigarette tax in the nation.

Anyone buying a pack of cigarettes will feel the $2.75 state sales tax in their wallet. It’s likely to prevent young people from starting but is it enough to make those who are already addicted quit?

The increased cigarette tax takes effect on June 3, 2008 and is a key component of the state’s comprehensive $83 million anti-smoking effort. The additional $1.25 excise tax will produce more than $5 billion in long-term health care savings and raise approximately $265 million a year in new state revenues.

Raising the price of cigarettes is the most effective way to get smokers to quit, public health officials say.

Currently 2.7 million adults smoke in New York, or 18% of the population, according to state Health Department.
The increased cigarette tax along with the state Clean Indoor Air Act that prohibits smoking in public places, the NY Smokers Quitline and effective statewide media campaigns make New York a national leader in tobacco control.

For smokers looking for help quitting, the New York State Smokers Quitline offers free coaching and quit plans; free nicotine patches, gum and lozenges; free tips and information and free online help. The toll- free Quitline number is 1-866-697-8487. More information is available on the Quitline Web site at www.nysmokefree.com.

What do you think? Will the expense motivate you to quit?