Fundamentals of Tobacco Tax Increases: Science, Methods, and Messaging

Audience: Tobacco control practitioners (advocates, program staff, etc.) from any background or setting will benefit from this session because it will review the scientific background supporting tobacco tax increases, describe of the technical aspects of tobacco tax increase policies, and show practical ways to message around them.  Participants will be more prepared to educate on and/or advocate for tobacco tax increases.

Key Points: (1) Economic research studies and real-life examples show that significant tobacco tax increases generate public health benefits, increase state revenues, and reduce health care costs; (2) key elements in tax increase proposals will make the most impact on public health and the economy; and (3) polling data and state experiences show how to communicate effectively about tobacco tax increases.

Educational Experience: Panelists will present evidence to support policies to increase tobacco taxes, walk through the technical aspects of tobacco tax increase proposals, and provide state examples of strategies to communicate and generate support for tobacco tax increases.  The presentations will encourage questions throughout and at the end.

Benefits: Most states are facing a tremendous toll from tobacco, unprecedented health care costs, and severe budget deficits, and are looking for ways to improve public health and generate revenue.  This panel will help participants educate the public, media, and policymakers about using tobacco tax increases to raise revenue for states, make their state healthier and more productive, and reduce healthcare costs:  a win-win-win for states.