A new survey suggests Nevada lawmakers could have significant public support for raising tobacco taxes. Nearly two-thirds, or 63%, of likely Nevada voters, said they would support a tax increase if the additional revenue were directed toward programs designed to prevent tobacco use.
The finding comes as public health groups push Nevada to revisit a cigarette tax that has remained unchanged since 2015. Advocates are calling for the state to double its cigarette tax and increase taxes on other tobacco products so that different forms of tobacco are taxed more evenly.
Youth tobacco use is another major concern highlighted by the survey. Fifty-nine percent of likely voters said they were either very or somewhat concerned about young people in their communities using tobacco products. Supporters of a higher tax argue that increasing the price of tobacco can discourage consumption while generating additional state revenue for prevention and cessation efforts.
The survey also points to broader concerns about healthcare affordability. Eighty-five percent of likely voters said it is extremely or very important for Americans to have access to affordable cancer screening and treatment close to home, while 91% agreed that families are being squeezed by rising healthcare and insurance costs. Nevada’s interim legislative revenue committee is expected to consider which proposals to advance later this month, potentially putting the tobacco tax debate closer to the next legislative session.
