Reynolds should back raising the tobacco tax

I am deeply disappointed that the governor's annual address did not address raising the tobacco tax. While radon exposure kills 400 Iowans each year, tobacco kills over 5,000.

It costs taxpayers billions of dollars in health care costs, in addition to causing pain, suffering and loss of lives. I know! My sister died of cancer leaving five children without a mother. The Governor ignores the most important factor causing Iowa’s high cancer rates. Iowa ranks 33rd in the nation for tobacco tax rates, and 2nd in the nation for cancer. The most effective way to reduce tobacco use is increasing the cost.

It works. Iowa did it in 2007 and saw smoking rates decline. Screenings matter! Treatment matters! But prevention saves the most lives and the most dollars. Increasing the tobacco tax is proven to reduce smoking and lower cancer rates.

Big Tobacco is fine with Iowa increasing screening and treating people after they have cancer. But Governor, why not do what it takes to keep them from getting cancer? It’s time to raise the cigarette tax by $1.50 with an equivalent tax on e-cigarettes and other tobacco products. Everyone Wins when tobacco loses!

Eileen L. Fisher

Solon