Juneau Voters to Decide Cigarette Tax Increase
JUNEAU, Alaska -- Juneau voters will decide in the Oct. 7 municipal election if they want to raise city taxes on tobacco.
The Juneau Assembly voted to put a measure on the ballot that would increase the tax on cigarettes to 30 cents a pack. If voters approve it, the measure would also double the existing 6 percent excise tax on cigars, chewing tobacco and other tobacco products.
City officials estimate the increase would bring another $300,000 into city coffers next year. Assembly members said they want to use the money to help pay for social service and wellness programs.
The Juneau Assembly voted to put a measure on the ballot that would increase the tax on cigarettes to 30 cents a pack. If voters approve it, the measure would also double the existing 6 percent excise tax on cigars, chewing tobacco and other tobacco products.
City officials estimate the increase would bring another $300,000 into city coffers next year. Assembly members said they want to use the money to help pay for social service and wellness programs.