The effects of an increase in the sales and sin tax

One part of the state budget that will inevitably affect everyone is the one percent sales tax increase. That hike may seem insignificant to some, but even a dime here and there can add up.

The budget also targets folks with vices. People who smoke tobacco and drink malt liquor will see a tax increase as well. For one local cigar shop owner, the state is shaking up an industry that is already struggling.

"Let me tell you, a ten percent tobacco tax I can eat that, I can absorb a 10 percent tobacco tax. 31 percent, I have to pass on to my consumer," said Frank Bullara, owner of Bugsy’s Cigars.

The most popular cigar at Bugsy’s costs around $5 dollars. With the new tax, that will bring it up to a little over $6 dollars. The idea behind hiking up sales and sin taxes is to make up for the decline in revenue in our state.