Study: Companies Pay Almost $6,000 Extra Per Year for Each Employee Who Smokes

Employers Can Use Cost Estimates to Develop Tobacco Policies COLUMBUS, Ohio – A new study suggests that U.S. businesses pay almost $6,000 per year extra for each employee who smokes compared to the cost to employ a person who has never smoked cigarettes. Researchers say the study is the first to take a comprehensive look […]

No Smoking Outside Starbucks Shops Starting Saturday

Starbucks is moving its smoking ban outdoors. Starting Saturday, according to signs posted in its more than 7,000 shops across the U.S. and Canada, “the no-smoking policy … will include outdoor areas.” “Smoking will be restricted within 25 feet of the store and within outdoor seating areas,” the notices read. AdWeek says that “since smoking bans have swept […]

Letter: Cigarettes kill more than wars do

By: Jay Taylor, Durbin, N.D., INFORUM As I write this, I’m looking at a Forum editorial reminding me to take time to honor the war dead, and in my heart and head, I do that. I’m writing this after Memorial Day as I would not want to take one bit of respect away from the brave […]

Minnesota stores face loss of revenue after cigarette tax hike

MOORHEAD – The Legislature gave Josh Larson a huge incentive to quit smoking.   “I am currently working on that,” said Larson, store manager at Oasis Convenience store in north Moorhead. His timing couldn’t be better. The Minnesota Legislature recently raised taxes on cigarettes $1.60 a pack, bringing state taxes to $2.52 per pack. Larson […]

Minnesota Tobacco Tax Increase is Big Win for Kids and Health

Statement of Matthew L. Myers President, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids WASHINGTON, DC — It is terrific news for Minnesota’s kids and health that the Legislature has voted to increase the state cigarette tax by $1.60 per pack and also increase the tax on other tobacco products. The tobacco tax increase is truly a win-win-win solution […]