Wednesday, retailers and the public are invited to learn more about a proposed tobacco tax in Pitkin County.
Pitkin County health officials are drafting language for a 2019 ballot question that would raise taxes on tobacco. Cigarettes would be taxed at $3.20 a pack, and all other tobacco products would see a 40% tax.
The proposed policy follows suit with the City of Aspen’s, which was adopted in 2018.
Pitkin County Public Health Director Karen Koenemann says at Wednesday’s meeting, officials will discuss the potential health benefits, particularly for younger people, as well as impacts on local retailers. Colorado has the highest teen vaping rate in the country.
The meeting starts at 6 p.m. at Basalt Town Hall.
