Cigarettes in the City of Minneapolis will cost more than in any other city in the country under plan approved by the City Council.
The council unanimously approving a mandated minimum price of $15 per pack, up from roughly $10 per pack right now.
"This is for the greater public good of our community and our residents," says Councilmember Linnea Palmisano. "I know it's easy for me to sit up here and say that as a non-smoker, but it's the truth. The only way we're going to break our dependence on tobacco is if we make some really hard changes."
The goal is to get people to quit smoking, thereby reducing the health problems that can often come along with it.
Councilmember Robin Wonsley expressed concerns the higher price may drive more people to e-cigarettes. The plan does not include e-cigarettes at this point.
"While that might not be the intention, it does feel like we're signaling that e-cigs are basically the preferred nicotine of choice or product, despite them also having negative health impacts," says Wonsley. "And knowing a lot of young people also use vapes and e-cigs as well."
Because the higher price for a pack of cigarettes is likely to result in lower sales, Minneapolis retailers will keep the extra money being charged.
The ordinance includes:
- Increasing the minimum per-pack price of cigarettes, and other commercial tobacco products to $15
- Ending price discounts and coupons for commercial tobacco products
- Increasing the penalties for licensees that violate city policy
- Ending the sampling “loophole” for any new commercial tobacco products shop
“These changes will protect youth and communities from color from tobacco industry targeting,” said Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw. “Tobacco is still the leading cause of death, and I am proud that our city is taking this important public health step.”
"Council Member Vetaw has been a tireless public health advocate in Minneapolis for years," said Mayor Frey. "This ordinance prioritizes the health and well-being of our residents, and I'm proud to stand alongside her in supporting its passage."