MS HB307

Increases the state excise tax on cigarettes from the current rate to 5.9 cents per cigarette, with cigarettes exceeding 120 millimeters in length taxed as multiple cigarettes.

Maintains the existing 15% tax rate on cigars, cheroots, stogies, snuff, chewing tobacco, smoking tobacco, and other tobacco products (non-cigarette).

Reduces the dealer discount for stamps purchased after June 1, 1985 from 8% to 4% compensation for services.

Declares the tax burden falls on the end consumer, with any tax paid by intermediate parties considered an advance payment to be recovered from the ultimate user.

Effective date: July 1, 2012.