As a constituent, I write to express my strong opposition for the Tobacco Tax Equity Act of 2019 (S.2517). This legislation would cause significant harm to the thousands of small businesses specializing in premium cigars, by increasing their current tax rate without cause. The premium cigars industry has never been attributed to a public health epidemic, youth usage or nicotine addiction. These facts continue to be proven by the national longitudinal study on tobacco and public health, which is sponsored by the Food and Drug Administration and the National Institutes of Health. We need Congress to remain focused on the segments of the tobacco industry that present real public health concerns, and to consider the economic consequences that indiscriminate tax increases, such as what is presented by bill. S. 2517, will have on small businesses and consumers. I urge you to oppose S. 2517 and stand up for premium cigar retailers, employees, and enthusiasts across the country.