The smokers’ only comfort which they have is when smoke cigarettes. Smoking ban not only cut the smokers’ pleasures but their jobs too. With taxes on the rise, legal coping mechanisms are quickly becoming unaffordable luxuries.

The cigarettes prices were increased too. But the price of cigs may be increased yet again. While federal tobacco taxes have already more than doubled, states are considering their own tax increases. California is even considering raising its 87-cent cigarette tax for the first time since 1998.

It is no surprise that the states would turn to a tax like this in such tough times. Sin taxes have always been the favored tax when revenue is tight.

Sin taxes are often the first taxes to be raised by individual states facing deficits. They bring in extra money for the state and are often easily accepted by the public because they are indirect taxes that only affect those who use the tobacco products.

Such kinds of taxes discourage particular activities like smoking, at the same time they encourage the state revenue.

retending that smokers don't quit, this tax increase could possibly provide California with over $1 billion in new revenue. However, while the state may prosper, both the smokers and cigarette store owners will carry the burden of this so-called win-win plan.

California already provides public protection for non-smokers. Smoking is prohibited on buses, trains, planes, public buildings, bars and restaurants.

Smokers could quit if they didn't want to pay the shocking prices. If someone wants to smoke, it is his or her right to do so.