MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Smokers in Minneapolis will pay some of the highest cigarette prices in the country after the City Council voted unanimously Thursday to impose a minimum retail price of $15 per pack to promote public health.
The ordinance not only sets a floor price. It prevents smokers and retailers from getting around it by prohibiting price discounts and coupons, which several tobacco companies circulate online to lure customers and reinforce brand loyalty. The minimum price also applies to four-packs of cigars. Distribution of free samples is prohibited.
Consumer prices are expected to run even higher after taxes are figured in. While retailers will get to keep the extra money paid by smokers, the higher prices are expected to snuff out at least some of their sales. E-cigarettes, which have grown in popularity, were left out because their prices vary too widely.
Trump's strategist push AI to help conservatives, all you need to know
Lionel Messi scores fifth goal and has an assist in Inter Miami's 3
Royal gardener reveals top tips to get rid of slugs and snails
China unveils new measures to streamline foreign exchange business processes
Palace rout demoralized Man United 4
Harry Styles' huge net worth revealed as singer pays himself a whopping £67million after sold
Tucker, Altuve combine for 5 RBIs as Astros use big 7th inning to down Rangers, 9
Pakistan confirms making formal request to join BRICS
Trump faces jail threat over gag order as prosecutors zero in on transactions at heart of the case
How to get rid of NYC rats without brutality? Birth control is one idea