Rich Neal: “I support H.R. 2339, which will address the epidemic of rising youth smoking across the country. Importantly, the bill…”

“I support H.R. 2339, which will address the epidemic of rising youth smoking across the country. Importantly, the bill before us today incorporates a proposal reported by the Ways and Means Committee that would establish a Federal excise tax on nicotine products, including vaping products. I thank Tom Suozzi, who has really done a great job on this, in a bipartisan effort, to ensure that e-cigarette products are taxed the same as traditional tobacco. Studies show that excise taxes reduce both adult and underage smoking. In general, every 10 percent increase in the real price of cigarettes reduces the number of kids who smoke by 6 to 7 percent and reduces overall cigarette consumption by 3 to 5 percent. In recognition of the effort that we are making this morning, measured by the effectiveness of excise taxes as they reduce youth smoking, the World Health Organization recommends that e-cigarettes be treated and regulated in the same way as traditional tobacco products. The Surgeon General has said that raising prices on cigarettes is ``one of the most effective tobacco control interventions'' because it reduces smoking, particularly among kids. With this legislation, we are simply building on what we already know works. We are ensuring that nicotine will be taxed at approximately the same rate, whether you get it from e-cigarettes or traditional cigarettes.…”