THE Federal Government’s indigenous smoking coordinator has hinted that Labor could increase the tobacco excise in the May budget. Tom Calma, who has the job of reducing smoking rates in Aboriginal communities, made the call at the National Press Club in Canberra on Thursday. Asked whether he would like to see the government increase the tobacco tax in the upcoming budget, Mr Calma said: “I believe that’s mooted.” But he ... Jump to full article >>

The Canadian Press reported earlier today that Ottawa has been drawn back into a massive health-care recovery lawsuit after the British Columbia Court of Appeal ruled it may share blame with tobacco companies for smoking-related health costs. The decision handed down earlier tiday only gives the tobacco companies a very narrow opening to have the federal government share financial responsibility. But it sets a precedent for similar cases procee ... Jump to full article >>

Two businessmen pleaded guilty Tuesday to their involvement in a cigarette distribution scheme to defraud the federal government and several states, including Mississippi, out of more than $20 million in taxes and fees. Jerry Burke, 67, of Tupelo and Randy Benham, 43, of Cordova, Tenn., waived indictment and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge W. Allen Pepper in Greenville to carrying out a scheme to defraud federal and state governments, ... Jump to full article >>

SOME TOBACCO companies have pulled another one on the federal government. By relabeling their product, the companies are avoiding a punitive tax placed on rollyour-own tobacco products. Congress and the Obama administration raised taxes on tobacco products earlier this year, with taxes on tobacco for roll-your-own cigarettes skyrocketing from $1.10 per pound to $24.78 per pound. That’s more than a 2,000-percent jump. Ostensibly, the tobacco ta ... Jump to full article >>