ALBANY -- New York Health Commissioner Dr. Richard Daines says a higher tax on cigarettes is having the desired effect on a nasty habit.
He says calls to the state's Smoker's Quitline more than quadrupled during the week of June 2 to nearly 10,000. That compares to fewer than 2,300 calls during the same week last year.
The increase that took effect June 3 sent the tax from $1.25 to $2.75 per pack -- the highest in the nation. In most of the state, cigarettes range between $6 and $8 a pack, and can cost as much as $10 in New York City.
Audrey Silk, who heads NYC Citizens Lobbying Against Smoker Harassment, says the boost in calls is just a knee-jerk reaction, and most smokers will return to their habit.
The increase that took effect June 3 sent the tax from $1.25 to $2.75 per pack -- the highest in the nation. In most of the state, cigarettes range between $6 and $8 a pack, and can cost as much as $10 in New York City.
Audrey Silk, who heads NYC Citizens Lobbying Against Smoker Harassment, says the boost in calls is just a knee-jerk reaction, and most smokers will return to their habit.
