In the past few months, Michigan has seen a lot of changes. From the clean air legislation that was recently put into action on May 1st, to once again raising taxes on tobacco products. Some claim that it is in an effort to reduce the state deficit, while others say it is to discourage smokers from continuing their habit. Whatever the case, quitting might be even more beneficial than you thought.
Just recently the federal government increased the tax on tobacco products to expand on low-income children’s health insurance. The increase of 62 cents is added on top of the Michigan state tax on cigarettes. That means the total amount in tax that is paid on one pack of cigarettes is $3.01. Michigan state tax is one of the highest in the nation and is now being added on by federal taxes. This is just another reason to stop smoking. The taxes are not just on cigarettes but all tobacco products. The largest increase will bring the cost of loose tobacco (roll your own) from about $20 a bag to almost $70.
Not only is smoking taking away massive amounts of money, but is also shaving years off the ends of millions of lives. The statistics show that by smoking a person increases his or her expectancy of getting cancer by 83%. So it is clear now why Michigan has incorporated high tobacco tax as well as the implementation of the Smoke Free Law.
Being able to safely quit smoking is something that gets brought up frequently. The cravings and weight gain that many experience when quitting can be enough to hold you back from a new life. Not to mention the thousands of dollars that you are pouring into the habit every year.
