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Bill

Bill

A 4677

Increases amount of cigarette and other tobacco products tax revenues provided to New Jersey Commission on Cancer Research to $10 million; establishes dedicated, non-lapsing Cancer Research Fund.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Aura Dunn and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey redirects tobacco tax revenues to establish a $10 million annual, non-lapsing fund for cancer research.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Health Committee
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Bill Summary · A 4677

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 4677 redirects cigarette and tobacco product tax revenues to dedicate $10 million annually to the New Jersey Commission on Cancer Research. The bill establishes a non-lapsing Cancer Research Fund, meaning unspent funds carry over year to year rather than reverting to the general treasury.

Why is this important

Tobacco taxes have historically funded multiple state priorities, so redirecting revenues represents a significant shift in budget allocation. A dedicated, non-lapsing fund provides research institutions with predictable long-term funding to pursue cancer research initiatives, potentially accelerating breakthroughs and clinical applications.

Potential points of contention

  • Budget trade-offs: Redirecting tobacco tax revenue may reduce funding available for other programs (education, healthcare infrastructure, smoking cessation programs) unless new revenues replace them
  • Fund sustainability: Tobacco consumption is declining, which could reduce the tax base available to meet the $10 million commitment over time
  • Precedent setting: Dedicating specific revenue streams limits legislative flexibility to respond to budget emergencies or shifting priorities in future years

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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