The WellPower supports public health policies that improve the health and well-being of the people we serve and all people in Denver. It is for this reason that we support Proposition EE, which for example, sets a minimum after-tax price of cigarettes for consumers at $7.00 per pack beginning in January 2021, and $7.50 per pack beginning in July 2024.

Colorado has one of the highest rates of youth vaping in the country, while also having one of the lowest tax rates on cigarettes and tobacco products and no tax on vaping products. Cigarettes, tobacco and nicotine products are addictive and have negative health impacts, which can include cancer and heart and lung disease.

Tax increases usually result in higher prices, which in many cases are seen to deter smoking and tobacco use, especially among youth and young adults. Higher taxes on cigarettes, tobacco products, and vaping products could decrease consumption while funding health care, tobacco prevention and cessation programs, preschool programs, eviction legal assistance to low-income clients at risk of eviction and housing development.

If you or someone you know is in need of tobacco cessation assistance, there is help:

WellPower – (303) 504-7900

Colorado Quitline – 1-800-QUIT-NOW

The DIMENSIONS at University of Colorado Hospital https://www.uchealth.org/services/respiratory-lung-care/smoking-cessation/