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IL Senate approves cigarette tax hike, goes to Governor

By WEEK Producer

IL Senate approves cigarette tax hike, goes to Governor

May 29, 2012 Updated May 29, 2012 at 8:20 PM CDT

SPRINGFIELD, Ill -- The Illinois Senate Tuesday approved a tax increase of $1.00 per pack on cigarettes.

The new tobacco taxes could bring in addition $700 million per year to the state.

"Increasing the price of cigarettes will decrease smoking-related costs to Medicaid, which came to $1.5 billion last year. This legislation will help 60,000 people quit smoking, prevent 60,000 deaths from smoking-related conditions and keep 80,000 kids from taking up smoking in the first place," said Governor Quinn.

This is the final part of Governor Quinn's plan to restructure a floundering Medicaid system.

Last week lawmakers passed sweeping cuts to the program.

Governor Quinn is expected to sign both bills.

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