1. United States
2. Ga.
3. Letter

I'm asking you to vote no on SB 520. This bill would raise the state tax on cigars from 23 percent to 28 percent and permanently tie it to inflation, creating automatic tax increases every year without legislative oversight. Georgia's premium cigar retailers are local small businesses that provide jobs, generate sales tax revenue, and serve as community gathering places. This tax hike won't solve budget challenges, but it will hurt these businesses and the adult consumers who support them. Premium cigars are handmade, traditionally produced products enjoyed occasionally by adults. They're not mass market tobacco products, and they shouldn't be treated the same way. Tying taxes to inflation removes accountability and guarantees recurring increases that will squeeze small retailers and drive customers out of state or online. Georgia businesses deserve better than a policy that promises unreliable revenue while threatening their survival. Vote no on SB 520.