SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico lawmakers will consider a first-time tax on e-cigarettes along with increased levies on cigarettes and chewing tobacco.
The proposal for a 66 percent tax on e-cigarettes was introduced on Wednesday by Democratic state Senator Howie Morales of Silver City. Taxes on conventional cigarettes would increase by $1 to $2.66 and taxes on other tobacco products would rise from 25 percent to 66 percent of initial sales.
Several states are examining tax structures that account for the growing popularity of e-cigarettes and other alternative tobacco products. Electronic cigarettes use a small battery and a tobacco-based nicotine liquid to produce a mist or vapor with no tar.
The proposed legislation is endorsed by the American Cancer Society, American Lung Association, American Heart Association and other public health groups.