American Heart Association statement on New Jersey proposed cigarette tax increase

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ – The American Heart Association Director of Government Relations for New Jersey, Corinne Orlando, issued the following statement today in response to Governor Murphy’s proposed budget which includes a cigarette tax increase:

“The American Heart Association applauds Governor Murphy’s proposal to increase New Jersey’s cigarette tax by $1.65 to $4.35 per pack. Cigarette taxes are an effective deterrent to cigarette smoking, especially for youth. This move is long overdue. New Jersey has not increased its cigarette tax since 2009, and the proposed increase would bring us in line with our neighbors in New York and Connecticut. It could also provide a much-needed boost to funding to fight tobacco in New Jersey. The American Heart Association looks forward to working with Governor Murphy and the Legislature over the next month to advance this important, life-saving measure.”

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke –  the two leading causes of death in the world. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies, and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit heart.org or call any of our offices around the country. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.