Maryland Tax Hike Unfair To Cigar Aficionados

Smoking isn't as popular as it used to be, thanks to rising taxes that have made cigarettes more expensive than ever

. Fortunately for cigar aficionados, stogies have remained relatively affordable at least in most parts of the country. That said, a recent proposal in Maryland has many fearing that copycat regulations could result in widespread tax increases that may make cigars too expensive.

Maryland contemplates tax increase

Recently, Sen. Jennie M. Forehand, (D-Montgomery), reported that state legislatures are considering a tax hike on cigars sold at local brick-and-mortar stores. Strangely, although Forehand has sponsored several anti-smoking initiatives, many believe the tax hike may be intended to dissuade local teenagers from purchasing cigars to use as "blunts."

According to supporters of the tax hike, many Maryland teenagers use cigars to case marijuana. Known as "blunts," these hollowed-out cigars look just like regular cigars, allowing users to smoke the drug in public without anyone noticing.

In a recent interview, Forehand said he'd never even heard of blunts and asserted that marijuana had nothing to do with the proposed tax hike. That said, it's clear that many of the measure's proponents are endorsing the tax increase because they are worried about public marijuana consumption; and state legislatures are facing pressure from these groups of people, whether they agree with them or not.

Although Forehand claims to have never heard of blunts, other Maryland lawmakers have. State legislatures have already banned the practice of selling flavored tobacco wraps - aka blunt wraps - and individually wrapped cigars. Many supporters of the tax increase have openly asserted that the measure would be aimed at curbing teen drug use. According to them, an added tax would be an effective disincentive that would help reduce marijuana use in teens.

What cigar aficionados can do

Unfortunately, it appears that cigar lovers may be inappropriately punished for acts committed by Maryland teenagers. If you are concerned about a proposed cigar tax hike in Maryland or your respective city, you can contact your local representative and voice your concerns. Alternatively, you can bypass local taxes entirely by getting great cheap cigars online. If, on the other hand, you'd prefer to support local brick-and-mortar businesses, you can either bite the bullet and pay the taxes or get politically active and make your voice heard.

by: Elliot Boudin

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