Lt. gov. discusses proposed tobacco tax hike

The Clarion-Ledger, 1/27/9

The state Senate could pass a tobacco tax increase this week, but it likely will not be as high as the 82 cents per pack that already has cleared the Mississippi House.

Lt. Gov Phil Bryant figures the Senate will consider adding 50 to 60 cents to the existing 18-cents a-pack tax already in place.

Bryant discussed the tax and other key issues facing the Senate this legislative session at an editorial board meeting Monday at The Clarion-Ledger.

“It’s not as easy as people think,” Bryant said about getting a cigarette tax passed.

The House and Senate are working to find common ground on the amount of the tax, he said.