Senate takes up bill to lower NH tobacco tax

A pack of smokes could get cheaper in New Hampshire under a bill being considered by the state Senate.

The Senate votes Wednesday whether to lower the cigarette tax a dime.

The bill has already passed the House to drop the tax from $1.78 per pack to $1.68. Supporters argue it will help businesses gain customers from across the border where cigarettes cost more.

But critics say New Hampshire can't afford to lower taxes at a time when services to the poor are being reduced.