Big Tobacco Wants You To Thank Governor Herbert

You'd think that with a legislature that is predominantly LDS, a religion whose scriptures say "And again, tobacco is not for the body, neither for the belly, and is not good for man," that big tobacco would have a horrible time in the legislature.

But, big tobacco has big money. And some of that money flows into the coffers of our legislators. And the pockets of lobbyists. Lobbyists like former house speaker Greg Curtis.

Amazingly, the legislature managed to pass HB 196, which increases taxes on cigarettes. However, Governor Herbert has said he plans on vetoing a tobacco tax increase. Well, that was before he said that he'd sign it, which was before he said he wasn't sure what he'd do. Leadership -- not his strong suit.

And, at least one group wants him to veto it:


(click to enlarge. Page found here.)

Look in the top right-hand corner. "Provided by Altria Client Services." Who is Altria you ask? Well, they are the parent company of Phillip Morris, whose cigarette brands include Marlboro, Alpine, Basic, Benson & Hedges, Bristol, Cambridge, Chesterfield, Commander, Dave's, English Ovals, Lark, L&M, Merit, Parliament, Players, Saratoga and Virginia Slims. In other words, Pillip Morris put the big in big tobacco.

And you thought the Legislature only did the bidding of the Church.....

-Bob

Sen Bennett Defends his Pro-Tobaco Vote

In summary: "I'm not pro big-tobacco, I'm pro-small tobacco. And Another Government agency.

And I believe you are five.:

The Video:

Greg Curtis: Thank-you For Smoking

"And again, tobacco is not for the body, neither for the belly, and is not good for man..." Doctrine and Covenants 89:8 ("The Word of Wisdom")

Why, oh why would someone who professes to be a member of the LDS Church agree to be a lobbyist for a tobacco company?

Was Budweiser not hiring?

Since his law firm doesn't pay him enough, Greg Curtis has hired on as a lobbyist for Altria (parent company of Phillip Morris [Marlboro]), Utah Transit Authority, Intermountain Healthcare, Utah Sports Commission, Gold Cross Ambulance and Anderson Development.

And to think, we were worried about him using his $300,000 campaign bankroll for personal use.

-Bob