We do not expect the tobacco tax to permanently fund any program. Money to fund the Children's Initiative priorities like tobacco use prevention, class size reduction, drug treatment, etc. The State of Maryland has always been proactive in helping its own citizens. We elect our representatives and expect that they will act to improve conditions in our state. The tobacco tax increase is a scientifically proven way to reduce smoking.
Less smoking means fewer people getting sick and dying prematurely and fewer costs to the State.