Speaker McCoy against fall special session to vote on tobacco tax

The Clarion-Ledger, 8/14/8

House Speaker Billy McCoy on Wednesday resisted the idea of a special legislative session this fall to hike cigarette taxes, and said lawmakers can approve the measure early next year at less expense to taxpayers.

But even if the matter is postponed until the next regular session begins in January, a debate over how much tobacco should be taxed and what to do with the revenue generated is expected.

Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant has suggested a one-day special session this fall as a way to increase the state’s 18-cent cigarette tax. A committee appointed to study the tax system is expected this month to recommend the hike.