As expected, Gov. Hochul’s proposed excise tax on the sale of nicotine pouches, similar to taxes on other non-cigarette tobacco products, has supporters and detractors. I urge you not to accept claims that nicotine pouches, like Zyn, should be exempt from tobacco excise taxes because they are approved for smoking cessation. That’s wrong. There are a variety of FDA-approved, medically backed, safe nicotine replacement therapies (NRT), available both over-the-counter and by prescription.  They provide controlled, standardized doses of nicotine (typically 2 mg or 4 mg) to gradually reduce addiction. Pouches are marketed in a much wider range of nicotine, some reaching concentrations up to 50 mg or higher per pouch, which can maintain and even increase addiction levels. And NRT flavors are restricted to basic options like mint to avoid appealing to youth. Pouches feature extensive, often sweet flavors like “Berry Frost” or “Mango Tango” which appeal to youth. New York State has finally seen a significant drop in youth vaping—just in time for the tobacco industry to come along with another new product to attract and addict our youth. Nicotine pouches are not approved for smoking cessation, and it is well known that tax increases on tobacco products reduce tobacco use, especially among youth.

The good news is if you are thinking about or want to quit tobacco use as an Allegany County resident you have options, first option is visiting the New York State Quitline or contacting them at 1-866-697-8487 for free nicotine replacement therapy and counseling. Second option is visiting the Allegany Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, Inc. (ACASA) for free local help.