Commentary: The Cost Of Smoking

If you haven't heard (or seen it) by now, the cost of cigarettes is about increase TREMENDOUSLY.


Thanks to President Obama signing into law a Federal Tax of $1.01 per pack of cigarettes -- effective April 1st, 2009 (this coming Wednesday).

With packs already at around $5 per pack ... that means the cost of one pack will be around 7 or 8 dollars. Yeah, I'd probably smoke my last one real soon if I was a smoker -- and invest in some Nicorette.


Big tobacco company Phillip Morris (the makers of Marlboro -- a VERY popular brand)increased their prices weeks ago, adding 70 cents or more to each pack. Lawmakers and supporters of the tax are hoping the high price will lead to a decline in cig sales and better health for America.


Being a non-smoker who HATES the smell, as well as an asthmatic who could literally die from inhaling second-hand smoke, I applaud this legislation. I hope it will not only discourage people from this harmful (and deadly) habit, but will clean up the air around me.

I find myself frequenting ONLY businesses that are smoke-free and I love seeing smoking areas far from the buildings I frequent.


When you take into account that diseases caused by smoking are a PREVENTABLE (by quitting) and that 1 in every 5 smokers will die from the filthy habit AND that NON-SMOKERS can acutally develop asthma, allergies and even LUNG CANCER from inhaling the toxins ... this is a complete WIN-WIN situation.


I know some people will be upset ... they may even start selling cigs on the street corner like they do illegal drugs ... but when you realize that those taxes are going toward health programs and CHILDREN'S HEALTH INSURANCE .. I don't see how anyone can complain.


You don't HAVE to smoke ... but non-smokers WANT to live full, healthy lives ... Period.


So to all the smokers, take this last week to smoke your butts off (no pun intended). And then give us (non-smokers), your lungs and your pockets a much-needed break ...


In the end ... It's better for us ALL.




- m





** Find out more about the upcoming Federal Cigarette Tax HERE.

** Check out some facts about cigarette/tobacoo use HERE.