Coming out of Iowa…The distinction between Republican control and Democrat control of a legislative chamber couldn’t be distilled down much more.

Increasing The Cigarette Tax

November 27, 2006

KWWL-TV NBC 7 Waterloo (IA)

Anti-tobacco activists are renewing their push for a higher cigarette tax in Iowa now that Democrats are in control of the new legislature.   Last year, Governor Vilsack asked lawmakers for an 80-cent increase to the state's 36-cent cigarette tax.  

Republican House Speaker Chris Rants blocked debate of the issue.   Anti-smoking activists hope that may change now that Democrats are in the majority in both the house and senate.   Democrats say, however, it's too soon to predict what may happen.  

Incoming Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal says many members of both parties want to consider raising cigarette taxes, but he's unsure by how much.