COLUMBUS, Ohio – The American Lung Association is urging Ohio lawmakers to raise the state’s cigarette tax by $1.50 per pack, citing concerns over the health and financial impact of tobacco use. The recommendation comes as part of the organization’s newly released 2025 “State of Tobacco Control” report, which evaluates state efforts in tobacco prevention and cessation.
“In addition to grading Ohio’s tobacco control policies, this year’s ‘State of Tobacco Control’ report examines the tobacco industry’s increasingly aggressive actions to addict a new generation to tobacco and hinder proven public policies to prevent and reduce tobacco use. Here in Ohio, we are seeing tobacco industry lobbyists working to stop or weaken proven tobacco control policies. The tobacco industry is also introducing new products that appeal to youth like e-cigarettes that mimic smartphones, kid-friendly flavors, and flavored nicotine pouches that are heavily marketed by social media influencers,” said Kezia Ofosu Atta, Advocacy Director at the American Lung Association. “In 2025, policymakers in Ohio must focus on increasing the cigarette tax by $1.50 per pack and establish tax parity across all tobacco products.”
Ohio’s Tobacco Control Report Card
The 2025 report assigns Ohio the following grades:
- Funding for State Tobacco Prevention Programs – F
- Strength of Smokefree Workplace Laws – I
- Level of State Tobacco Taxes – F
- Coverage and Access to Services to Quit Tobacco – C
- Ending the Sale of All Flavored Tobacco Products – F
These grades, the report notes, are based on legislative actions rather than the efforts of health advocates or tobacco control programs.
Examining the Impact of a Higher Cigarette Tax
Supporters of the tax hike argue that raising cigarette prices is one of the most effective ways to curb tobacco use, particularly among young people. Studies suggest that every 10% increase in cigarette prices leads to a 4% decline in consumption among adults and a 7% reduction among youth. Advocates claim that an increase of $1.50 per pack could significantly reduce smoking rates in Ohio.
Opponents, however, raise concerns about the economic impact of such a tax hike. Critics argue that increased tobacco taxes disproportionately affect lower-income individuals and could push some smokers toward neighboring states with lower taxes. Others question whether additional tax revenue will be allocated efficiently toward prevention programs.