[Drango]

Indeed spending is way out of control in California. No doubt a cigarette tax will be squandered and diverted. Non whatsoever.

I’m still in favor of it. Econ 101. An increase in price decreases demand. So while the cigarette tax revenues will go down a rat hole...there will be a benefit to society with less people smoking.

[metesky]

there will be a benefit to society with less people smoking.

there will be a benefit to society with less fewer people smoking.

Fixed it for ya, ignoid.

[TheZMan]

Pick something you like that you shouldn’t really do, and volunteer a tax on it. Until then you can cram it. I remember $0.98/pack, now they’re $6.50 - and I’m in Texas.

[kingu]

I’m still in favor of it. Econ 101. An increase in price decreases demand. So while the cigarette tax revenues will go down a rat hole...there will be a benefit to society with less people smoking.

Econ 101, when prohibition is applied either through outlawing or proscribing through high taxes or other means, people will seek out another solution. So more black market cigarettes, purchases from out of state, or other means to avoid paying the higher taxes.

Society is never benefited by government mandates, only stifled as opinions of the few are granted higher status than the opinions of the many. You don't like cigarettes, don't buy them. But, on the flip side, Romney's REALLY your man, as he loves mandates, says they work.