Oppose HB 266 in Missouri

Missouri HB 266 (HB 2275 [2020]) allows local governments throughout the state to propose tax increases on tobacco products. Introduced by Missouri Rep. Peter Merideth, D-St. Louis, the bill would allow for each locality to have a different tobacco tax level. By having the tobacco tax differing from region to region, it would instill an uneven playing field which would harm premium retail tobacconists throughout the state. PCA and Missouri’s premium tobacconists believe that there should be a uniformed approach to tax and regulatory policy, that prevents confusion by consumers and business, alike.