Health taxes on alcohol and cigarettes imposed by the Federal government of the United States have been very stable since 1951. This paper summarizes research that shows that increased taxation, which results in higher prices, would discourage alcohol abuse and cigarette smoking. One striking...

Price is a key determinant for access to and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Alcohol prices are determined by a range of factors and the most prominent factors are levels of taxation (excise duties and value added tax). Taxation is a key lever and blunt tool for governments to influence...