The Minneapolis City Council imposed a minimum retail price of $15 a pack on cigarettes to improve public health. Cigars sold in four packs are subject to the same minimum price. No free samples must be distributed.
The resolution does more than just establish a floor price. Reportedly, it forbids cigarette businesses from offering online promotions and price cuts in an effort to entice consumers and strengthen brand loyalty.
The bill will become official upon Mayor Jacob Frey's signature, and it is anticipated to occur within the next several days.
Minneapolis Will Have the Nation's Highest Minimum Retail Price for Cigarettes
According to The Associated Press, Minneapolis' senior public health expert Evalyn Carbrey said during last week's committee meeting that, according to staff analysis, the city's minimum will be the highest in the nation. Staff found that packs of cigarettes in Minneapolis usually cost between $11 and $13.50.
By implementing this adjustment, Minneapolis has surpassed New York City, which established its minimum wage at $13 in 2018.
Council President Andrea Jenkins thinks the new minimum cigarette price would inspire more people to stop smoking or never start. "If you travel around the country, New York City - you can't buy your pack of cigarettes for under $18. Chicago, $17. Some places, Los Angeles, I think they're up to 20 bucks," she stated.
For first offenses, there is a $500 fine. For second and subsequent offenses, the business license may be suspended or revoked.
Minneapolis Takes Action to Promote Public Health
Co-sponsor of the ordinance, LaTrisha Vetaw, expressed her enthusiasm at the council's dedication to addressing the issue, calling it a "public health crisis."
Council Member Linea Palmisano remarked: "If it helps even one person stop using tobacco, one person use less tobacco, or one person stopped from starting tobacco use, that's worth it to me ... The only way we're going to break our dependence on tobacco is if we make some really hard changes."
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