Monday, March 12, 2007
Governor Culver Stands With Faith Community for $1 Tobacco Tax Increase
(Des Moines) – Today, on the west-side Capitol steps, 
Governor Chet Culver and Lt. Governor Patty Judge
were joined by legislators and members of the Iowa Catholic Conference to advocate for a $1-per-pack increase
in the price of cigarettes and its life-saving potential for Iowans.
“This tax will convince 17,000 Iowans to stop smoking and prevent 37,000 of Iowa’s children from lighting up for the first time,” said Governor Culver. “That is why groups like the Iowa Catholic Conference have stood up in support of this tax.”
Speaking at the press conference, Tom Chapman, executive director of the Iowa Catholic Conference, stated why this issue is important to members of his organization.
“We support this legislation as a way to provide insurance and other important health care services for those in need in the State of Iowa,” said Mr. Chapman. “This legislation ultimately will save a lot of lives, and I would ask that all people of faith ask their House member to support this bill.”
Last week, the Iowa Senate passed legislation to increase the tobacco tax. The Iowa House is scheduled to
take up the proposed legislation tomorrow. 
Governor Culver called on Iowans to contact their State Representatives and encourage them to support the tax.
“With this issue coming for a vote this week, it is imperative that Iowans contact their legislators and make sure they support this life-saving initiative. Iowans may contact their representatives by calling the House Switchboard at 515.281.3221 or by visiting the legislative website at www.legis.state.ia.us. Let us work together to create a brighter, healthier future for Iowans.”