Rhode Island lawmakers are considering a massive tax increase that would directly impact premium cigar consumers across the state.
Governor Dan McKee’s FY2027 Executive Budget (H. 7127) proposes a 100% increase on the premium cigar tax by raising the per-cigar tax cap from $0.50 to $1.00.
If enacted, this proposal would significantly raise the price you pay for premium cigars. Higher taxes mean higher retail prices, and potentially fewer options on store shelves. Local cigar lounges and tobacconists could be forced to cut back on inventory, reduce hours, or close entirely, limiting places where adults can enjoy premium cigars.
Premium cigars are already a low-volume, adult-only product. Instead, it penalizes responsible consumers and threatens small, locally owned businesses that serve their communities. Similar tax increases in other states have resulted in lost sales and lower overall tax revenue as purchases move elsewhere.
The proposed tax increase is not final and can still be removed from the budget, but lawmakers need to hear directly from consumers like you who would be affected.
Take action now. Click below to send a message to your elected officials and tell them to oppose this unfair and excessive tax increase.