What it asks: “Shall City of Boulder taxes be increased two million five hundred thousand dollars (first full fiscal year increase) annually by imposing a sales and use tax of up to 40 percent of the retail sales price of all electronic smoking devices, including any refill, cartridge or component of such a product; the term “electronic smoking device” shall have the meaning as in section 6-4.5-1 of the Boulder revised code; and in connection therewith, shall all of the revenues collected be used to fund: the administrative cost of the tax, and thereafter for: implementation and administration of a licensing program for all nicotine product retailers; health promotion; education programs regarding nicotine product use including enforcement; with any remaining funds being available for general government services, including library, police, fire, parks, transportation and general government administration? All effective January 1, 2020, and in connection therewith, shall the full proceeds of such taxes at such rates and any earnings thereon be collected, retained, and spent, as a voter-approved revenue change without limitation or condition, and without limiting the collection, retention, or spending of any other revenues or funds by the city of boulder under Article X Section 20 of the Colorado constitution or any other law?”
What it means: Boulder is asking voters to approve a 40% sales tax on electronic smoking devices, typically called “vaping” devices, which should raise $2.5 million in its first year, with costs of administering the tax to be paid for through the tax revenue.
What supporters say: Supporters say the measure is needed to help combat addiction and a range of potential health consequences.
What opponents say: Concern has been voiced that the tax could hurt some local businesses, shift some users to cigarettes and create black markets.
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