Yes, by all means, increase the tax on tobacco products. People who still smoke will never consider that to be discrimination. The tax on alcohol will never increase because too many lawmakers and other people enjoy their drinks before and after dinner, and they would be digging into their own pockets.

Also, be sure to legalize recreational marijuana use. I would certainly rather be driving at night and meet an oncoming car driven by someone high on marijuana than someone who is smoking a regular cigarette. I am not condoning tobacco products, but the nation is doing the right thing by informing young children about the dangers of smoking. Don't single out the people who started smoking back when nearly everyone, including doctors, smoked.

The people who look down their noses at smokers because they are addicted to nicotine are the same ones who are addicted to their cellphone, liquor, food, drugs, shopping, TV and everything else you can think of, but in their "minds" that is different. If new taxes must be passed, then let it be a sales tax that involves all people. Don't single out a certain group.

Judy Brewer

Jackson