Poll: Should New Jersey Tax Electronic Cigarettes Like Regular Smokes?

NJ Spotlight | April 17, 2014 | Polling

Would a tax protect kids or deter adults with the nicotine habit from using faux smokes as a step toward quitting?

Let’s have a show of hands here.

Should the state start taxing e-cigarettes — battery-powered devices that vaporize liquid containing nicotine and flavoring?

Gov. Chris Christie’s proposed budget has a plan in place to tax e-smokes at the same $2.70 per pack as their conventional counterparts.

Some health advocates — including Health Commissioner Mary E. O’Dowd — argue that pushing up the price will keep e-cigarettes out of the hands of middle- and high-school students.

Others — including the Democratic members of the Assembly Budget Committee — say higher prices may discourage smokers from using e-cigarettes rather than regular ones. (O’Dowd said the state plans to exempt residents who are prescribed e-cigarettes as part of an effort to quit smoking from paying the tax.)

What do you think . . .