Governor Kim Reynolds has proposed raising Iowa's cigarette tax to the national average of $2.01 per pack and introducing a new 15% tax on vaping and consumable hemp products. This initiative aims to address Iowa's alarmingly high lung cancer rates, which researchers have identified as a significant outlier compared to neighboring states.
Key Takeaways:
- Cigarette Tax Hike: Proposed increase to match the national average of $2.01/pack.
- New Vape Tax: A 15% tax on vaping and consumable hemp products.
- Cancer Crisis: Iowa has higher lung cancer incidence and mortality than its neighbors.
- Research Backing: University of Iowa study links tobacco use to 80% of lung cancer cases.
Governor Kim Reynolds has confirmed plans to increase taxes on tobacco and introduce new levies on vaping products. This development occurs amidst alarming new data showing Iowa's lung cancer rates outpacing the region, directly resulting in a legislative push to curb smoking and fund health initiatives.
Targeting the Root Cause: Tobacco and Lung Cancer
Governor Reynolds unveiled her proposal alongside University of Iowa researchers, who presented preliminary data highlighting the state's troubling cancer statistics. "National statistics say that 80% of lung cancer is caused by tobacco," Reynolds stated, emphasizing that any strategy to fight the disease must address smoking.
Her plan includes two major fiscal changes:
- Raising the state tax on a pack of cigarettes to the national average of $2.01.
- Implementing a new 15% tax on vaping products and consumable hemp products.
This follows her recent calls to eliminate certain food dyes in schools and mandate nutrition education for physicians, signaling a broader health-focused legislative agenda.
Iowa's Unique Cancer Burden
The urgency of these measures is underscored by findings from the University of Iowa. Dr. Mary Charlton, director of the Iowa Cancer Registry, noted that while Iowa shares demographic similarities with neighbors like Wisconsin and Minnesota, its cancer profile is distinct.
| Cancer Type | Trend in Iowa | Regional Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Lung Cancer | Decreasing slower than U.S. avg. | Higher incidence and mortality than neighbors. |
| Breast/Prostate/Skin | Steep increase since 2013 | Rising faster than regional trends. |
| Colon Cancer | Decreasing | Higher than U.S. avg, but falling at similar rate. |
"This is one cancer for which we are not like our neighbors," Dr. Charlton said regarding lung cancer. "The difference seems to be widening."
A Personal Mission
For Governor Reynolds, the fight against cancer is personal. Her husband, Kevin Reynolds, was diagnosed with a fast-growing form of lung cancer in 2023 despite never being a smoker. He is currently in remission following immunotherapy.
"This is how transformation begins — not just with talk, but with action," Reynolds declared. While acknowledging that cancer is complex and has no single cause, she stressed that healthy behaviors are critical for overall well-being, and her bill aims to amplify that message through policy.
Vape Lifestyle & Advocacy Blogger
Chloe Evans, widely known as "CloudChaser Chloe," is a prominent voice in the global vaping community, celebrated for her vibrant personality and keen focus on the lifestyle aspects of vaping. Based in the creative hub of Portland, Oregon, Chloe's content blends fashion, art, and harm reduction, offering a fresh perspective on the vaping world. She aims to demystify vaping for adult consumers and challenge outdated perceptions, promoting a responsible and enjoyable experience.