I've drafted a one-page letter that can be emailed to all of our political representatives. This one has an American slant, but folks can swap that part out to mention history/culture of your own countries. Feel free to copy and paste it in a draft to your elected officials. Don't forget about local politicians as well.
www.usa.gov
Dear [ ],
I am writing to urge you to reconsider policies surrounding the taxation and regulation of pipe and cigar tobacco. As a passionate advocate for the preservation of American traditions and personal freedoms, I believe there is a compelling case for recognizing pipe and cigar tobacco as distinct from other tobacco products, especially when it comes to their health risks, cultural significance, and economic impact.
First and foremost, research indicates that pipe and cigar tobacco carries significantly lower health risks compared to cigarettes and vaping. According to a 2018 study published in Tobacco Control, the use of cigars and pipes has a markedly lower incidence of lung disease and cardiovascular issues when compared to regular cigarette use. This is due to the absence of many harmful chemicals found in mass-produced cigarettes and the fact that pipe and cigar smokers don’t inhale the smoke. Another study from the National Institute on Drug Abuse supports these findings, noting that while no form of tobacco is entirely without risk, the exposure to toxins is much lower for pipe and cigar users than for those who smoke cigarettes or use e-cigarettes.
Additionally, the tobacco in pipes and cigars is often free from the additives and flavorings that contribute to the harmful effects of modern cigarettes. Many of the chemicals in cigarette tobacco are linked to serious health issues, but these chemicals are not typically present in pure pipe and cigar tobaccos. Therefore, it is not only reasonable but necessary to distinguish between the different forms of tobacco use and regulate them accordingly.
Beyond the health considerations, we must also recognize the deep cultural and historical significance that tobacco has in the United States. Tobacco farming and the artistry of hand-rolling cigars and crafting premium pipe tobaccos are deeply ingrained in American heritage. These practices have contributed to the development of local economies, particularly in states like Kentucky, Virginia, and North Carolina, where the tobacco industry has been a pillar of agriculture for centuries. Furthermore, pipe and cigar smoking has long been considered an artform, with enthusiasts cultivating a refined appreciation for different tobaccos, blends, and smoking techniques. This is part of the broader narrative of American craftsmanship and tradition, which should be preserved and respected.
Given these considerations, I strongly encourage you to advocate for the following measures:
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response and hope that you will consider these points in your upcoming legislative decisions.
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www.usa.gov
Dear [ ],
I am writing to urge you to reconsider policies surrounding the taxation and regulation of pipe and cigar tobacco. As a passionate advocate for the preservation of American traditions and personal freedoms, I believe there is a compelling case for recognizing pipe and cigar tobacco as distinct from other tobacco products, especially when it comes to their health risks, cultural significance, and economic impact.
First and foremost, research indicates that pipe and cigar tobacco carries significantly lower health risks compared to cigarettes and vaping. According to a 2018 study published in Tobacco Control, the use of cigars and pipes has a markedly lower incidence of lung disease and cardiovascular issues when compared to regular cigarette use. This is due to the absence of many harmful chemicals found in mass-produced cigarettes and the fact that pipe and cigar smokers don’t inhale the smoke. Another study from the National Institute on Drug Abuse supports these findings, noting that while no form of tobacco is entirely without risk, the exposure to toxins is much lower for pipe and cigar users than for those who smoke cigarettes or use e-cigarettes.
Additionally, the tobacco in pipes and cigars is often free from the additives and flavorings that contribute to the harmful effects of modern cigarettes. Many of the chemicals in cigarette tobacco are linked to serious health issues, but these chemicals are not typically present in pure pipe and cigar tobaccos. Therefore, it is not only reasonable but necessary to distinguish between the different forms of tobacco use and regulate them accordingly.
Beyond the health considerations, we must also recognize the deep cultural and historical significance that tobacco has in the United States. Tobacco farming and the artistry of hand-rolling cigars and crafting premium pipe tobaccos are deeply ingrained in American heritage. These practices have contributed to the development of local economies, particularly in states like Kentucky, Virginia, and North Carolina, where the tobacco industry has been a pillar of agriculture for centuries. Furthermore, pipe and cigar smoking has long been considered an artform, with enthusiasts cultivating a refined appreciation for different tobaccos, blends, and smoking techniques. This is part of the broader narrative of American craftsmanship and tradition, which should be preserved and respected.
Given these considerations, I strongly encourage you to advocate for the following measures:
- Lower taxes on pipe and cigar tobacco that is free from harmful additives and chemicals.
- Recognize the lower health risks associated with pipe and cigar smoking compared to cigarettes and vaping.
- Support policies that preserve the cultural legacy of tobacco use in the United States, encouraging the continued production of artisanal and small-batch tobaccos.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response and hope that you will consider these points in your upcoming legislative decisions.
