Upcoming tax increase on New York cigarettes, little cigars aimed to encourage smokers to quit

An upcoming tobacco tax increase for New York State is aimed to help save lives and encourage smokers to quit.

According to a notice from New York’s Smokers’ Quitline, a tax increase of $1 per-pack for cigarettes and small cigars will start September 1, marking the latest hike since 2010.

This increase will raise taxes on New York cigarettes to $5.35 per-pack. "The upcoming tax increase will help save lives," said Paula Celestino, director of client relations and outreach for the NY Quitline, and one of the program's founding team members.

It’s reported the number of people calling the quitline increased significantly during the last tax spike in 2010.

Officials are expecting another increase in outreach again this time around.

The quitline can be reached at 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487). Services are also available online.

New York State Smokers’ Quitline image.