A recent report by the American Lung Association calls on Iowa lawmakers to increase taxes on all tobacco products as a measure to alleviate the significant human and financial toll of tobacco use. The 2025 "State of Tobacco Control" report assesses state and federal policies aimed at eliminating tobacco use, recommending effective laws and policies to prevent nicotine addiction and protect children.
Kristina Hamilton, Director of Advocacy at the American Lung Association in Iowa, highlighted concerns about the tobacco industry's efforts to target youth with new products such as e-cigarettes that resemble smartphones, flavored nicotine pouches, and marketing through social media influencers. "In addition to grading Iowa’s tobacco control policies, this year’s ‘State of Tobacco Control’ report examines the tobacco industry’s increasingly aggressive actions to addict a new generation to tobacco and hinder proven public policies to prevent and reduce tobacco use," said Hamilton.
Hamilton further stated, “In 2025, policymakers in Iowa must focus on increasing the tax on all tobacco products, including finally taxing alternative nicotine products.” Studies indicate that raising taxes on these products is an effective strategy for reducing usage rates, particularly among young people. Research shows that a 10% price hike in cigarettes can lead to a consumption decrease of about 4% among adults and approximately 7% among youth. The report suggests that Iowa should consider raising its cigarette tax for the first time in 18 years and implement an excise tax on e-cigarettes.
The report also urges Congress to allocate more funds to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for enforcing regulations against illegal e-cigarettes introduced by the tobacco industry.
For more details about this year's "State of Tobacco Control" grades or to sign a petition supporting these measures, visit Lung.org/sotc. Additionally, individuals interested in supporting the American Lung Association's mission can participate in events like the Fight For Air Climb Des Moines scheduled for March 30.
