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Illinois Cigarette Tax Approved - Finally
It took more than one try, but senators barely passed a bill that would eventually raise the state cigarette tax by a dollar over the next two years.

It failed by one vote the first time it was called, but the second time proved to be the charm as proponents garnered an extra vote to barely push it over the edge.

Some state senators expressed their concern over the bill, including Dave Syerson (R-Rockford). He's not convinced that raising the price on cigarettes will get Illinoisans to quit smoking. Instead, he thinks it will drive people, and their money, across state lines.

Though she voted for the measure, state Senator Iris Martinez (D-Chicago) was more worried about the cost to her constituents. She says it costs more than $9 for a pack of cigarettes in the city of Chicago, and with Cook County plus other state and local taxes, she's worried her constituents won't be able to pay up.

The measure now goes to the House. If it passes the House and is signed by the governor, the state would increase cigarette taxes by 50 cents per year over the next two years.

(Illinois Radio Network)
04 03 09 by Newsroom
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