Partner Sign-On Statement

Our Commitment: The Iowa Health Initiative (IHI) is dedicated to reducing the death and disease caused by tobacco use in our state. Represented by organizations, businesses, and the health care community, IHI is united around advancing proven, evidence-based policies that save lives, improve health, and strengthen Iowa’s future.

Tobacco remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the United States. The burden on Iowa is significant:

• 5,100 lives are lost every year to tobacco-related disease.
• Tobacco use costs the state $1.28 billion annually in health care expenditures.
• Iowa ranks 2nd nationally in cancer diagnosis and leads the nation in cancer deaths.
• 30% of cancer deaths in Iowa are linked to smoking.

Unfortunately, Iowa is on the wrong path. Currently, 12.9% of Iowa adults smoke and 16.4% of Iowa high school students use tobacco—more than twice the national average. Each year, 1,300 Iowa kids become new daily smokers.

The Solution

We know what works: regular and significant tobacco tax increases.

That’s why the Iowa Health Initiative coalition supports:

• A $1.50 per pack increase in the cigarette tax
• A 50% tax on all other tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches

These changes will:

• Reduce youth smoking and prevent thousands of kids from becoming addicted
• Help current smokers quit
• Prevent tobacco-related deaths
• Save millions in long-term health care costs
• Generate over $83 million in new annual revenue for Iowa

Sign-On Commitment

By completing this form, your organization affirms its support for the goals and work of the Iowa Health Initiative coalition. You agree that your organization’s name and logo may be used publicly to represent your partnership in this effort to raise the tax on tobacco products. You agree to receive communication from coalition co-chairs - The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, The American Lung Association, the American Heart Association, Americans for Non-Smokers' Rights, Clean Air for Everyone (CAFE), and Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. 

The Iowa Health Initiative is not a lobbying entity. Your name and logo will not be used in connection with any direct lobbying activities without your prior written consent.

Nonpartisan Disclosure

The Iowa Health Initiative (IHI) does not support or oppose individual candidates or political parties in any way. Our purpose is to educate and inform all candidates, policymakers, and the public—regardless of political affiliation.