In 2004 Colorado voters approved Amendment 35, a tax increase on cigarettes and other tobacco products. The revenue was designated for health care services and tobacco education to improve the health of all Coloradans.
The tax began January 1, 2005, and included a 64-cent increase on a pack of cigarettes, to a total of 84 cents, and a 20 percent increase on other tobacco products. This tobacco tax increase temporarily brought Colorado in line with the national average for tobacco taxes.
By 2007, however, the average tax on a pack of cigarettes nationally was $1.05, dropping Colorado into the lower range of states once again.
Each year, 32% of revenue from Amendment 35 is legislatively allocated to four highly effective programs within our department:
- Cancer, Cardiovascular Disease and Pulmonary Disease (CCPD) Competitive Grant Program.
- Health Disparities Grant Program (from CCPD funds).
- Tobacco Education, Prevention, and Cessation Grant Program.
- Women’s Wellness Connection (from CCPD funds).
More than 95 percent of Amendment 35 funds designated to our programs are awarded to nonprofits, government agencies, and businesses across Colorado through grant programs.
Amendment 35 grant opportunities
Learn more about Amendment 35 grant opportunities.