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The Legislature Today: WVU Dean Says Tobacco Tax Hike a Plus for W.Va.

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The Senate Finance Committee has approved a bill to increase the tobacco tax on cigarettes by $1 a pack. 

West Virginia University Health Sciences Executive Dean Dr. Clary Marsh says the increase will be enough to discourage West Virginia smokers and will likely increase the health outcomes for vulnerable populations like pregnant women and children.

Dr. Marsh discusses the tobacco tax, as well as what WVU is doing to combat substance abuse in West Virginia.

The Senate votes on a bill to expand broadband access in rural West Virginia, and debates another to allow fantasy sports gaming. In the House, Delegates attempt to amend a bill that would require voters show some form of identification to vote.

Representatives of the AARP and West Virginia Nurses Association discuss a bill that lifts some restrictions on nurse practitioners ability to practice in the state.