Could higher cigarette and gambling taxes help protect Medicaid in Michigan? What Governor says | Hindustan Times
Michigan's Governor Whitmer proposes increased taxes on tobacco, vaping, and online gambling to safeguard Medicaid funding.Summary
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proposed a series of tax increases on tobacco products, vaping items, and online gambling as part of her Fiscal Year 2027 budget plan. The goal is to generate revenue to protect Medicaid funding, a public health insurance program for low-income residents. The plan includes raising the cigarette tax by $1 per pack, increasing taxes on other tobacco products to 57% of the wholesale price, and introducing a new 57% excise tax on vaping devices. Online gambling would also face increased fees and taxes, including per-wager fees for sportsbooks and higher taxes for large online casino operators. Additionally, a 4.7% tax on digital advertising revenue is proposed, with exemptions for broadcast and news media. The administration believes these changes will discourage tobacco and nicotine use while providing crucial funding for Medicaid. The proposal requires approval from the Michigan Legislature before taking effect.
(Source：Hindustan Times)