More than 60 percent of cigarettes smoked in New York State, which has the highest tobacco taxes in the nation, are smuggled in from out of state and consumed tax free, reports Bloomberg.
The more oppressive a government becomes, the more workarounds develop.
New York raised its excise tax by 58% from $2.75 a pack to $4.35 in 2010, but it resulted in only a 20% increase in revenue. Some of this mismatch may be the result of smokers quitting, but a good chunk of the difference is likely because of cigarette sales going underground.
It's is really good to know this underground network is in action. In addition to smokers being provided tax free cigarettes, the black market that is developing in NYS is creating a network of trusted suppliers and customers that can be operational against further government interventions that may take place down the road. If prices start to skyrocket and government imposes price controls, this black market network may prove to be a lifesaver for many in getting food and other products that are not available at government decreed below market prices.
Domestic Blowback!!!! Coool!!
ReplyDelete