Navigating Indiana's Tax Hike: Modern Bootlegging

Indiana’s significant increase in cigarette taxes is not just a fiscal tactic—it's reminiscent of the state’s historic bootlegging days while aiming to bolster public finances. The state’s decision to boost the per-pack tax embodies a duel strategy: amplify revenue and combat smuggling with rigorous new laws—a nod to Prohibition-era clampdowns on moonshiners and racketeers.

Historically, Indiana's crackdown on illicit alcohol trades in the 1930s saw operations targeting bootleg beer and tobacco. Today, the battlefield has shifted from hidden distilleries to state lines and retail hubs, where thrifty consumers bypass taxes by venturing into low-tax areas or making bulk purchases.

Image 3

Neighboring Kentucky and Tennessee serve as stark examples. Kentucky’s minimal cigarette tax of 10 cents enables it as a hotspot for smugglers, with pathways stretching beyond its borders. Similarly, Tennessee's increased taxes in the 2000s spurred the emergence of bootleg cigarette outlets near state lines, akin to classic “beer flats” but now for smoking products.

The narrative is complex. A 2018 Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health brief analyzed the outcome of hike implementations like Indiana’s, revealing a 43% increase in tax revenue following its 2007 rate change from 55¢ to 99.5¢. Despite potential smuggling, fiscal returns surged.

Policy Enhancements: What Does the New Legislation Entail?

From July 1, Indiana will more than double its cigarette tax, strengthening enforcement measures:

  • Criminalization of large out-of-state purchases, elevating substantial transactions to felony charges.

  • Formation of enhanced task forces—with Excise and state police overseeing toll booths and logistics hubs.

  • Audits of wholesalers and retailers to identify counterfeit tax stamps.

  • Projected earnings: $290 million annually, allocated to public health funding.

Enforcement remains the key. Indiana’s proximity to tax-favorable states like Kentucky predisposes it to illicit trade. The Tax Foundation ranks Indiana among the top ten states to potentially face smuggling spikes, factoring in possibilities of border-hopping and black-market activities.

Ohio presents another hotspot due to its moderate cigarette taxes and expansive highway access. Research by the Mackinac Center suggests nearly 12% of Indiana’s cigarette consumption might initially derive from cross-border buys post-tax hike.

State Strategies: Insights from Illinois & New York

Illinois:

  • Illinois has manipulated its nicotine taxes to 45%, raising smuggling stakes.

  • An estimated 30% of cigarettes consumed are reportedly smuggled.

  • The state applies stringent penalties for unstamped cigarette packs—$20-$25 fines for excess quantities—and intensified monitoring post-tax jump, addressing contraband surges.

New York:

  • Imposed among the highest combined taxes, New York has experienced over 50% smuggling rates, peaking at 61% after a recent tax increase.

  • The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms with New York's Tax Enforcement specializes in combatting trafficking with felony charges for large-scale cigarette smuggling.

Image 1

Hoosier's Historical Hustles

Bootlegging is inherently tied to Indiana’s economic tapestry. During the Prohibition era, covert moonshine rings flourished, especially in Southern Indiana’s rural sectors, with “Whiskey Roads” facilitating the illicit transport of spirits.

Today’s contraband operations swap barrels for boxes, continuing a tradition. Former Indiana Excise officer John Halverson observes, “Stills once hid in barns, now cartons conceal in car trunks.”

Health Triumph or Political Risk?

Critics view smuggling increases as indicative of policy missteps, yet public health voices argue price hikes deter smoking, notably among youths and economically disadvantaged individuals. The Indiana Capital Chronicle cites Mike Seilback of the American Lung Association, emphasizing the positive health impacts despite 10–30% anticipated smuggling—even prior actions showcased a 43% jump in revenue.

Can the Approach Succeed?

Indiana invests heavily in this bid, navigating complex fiscal and enforcement terrains. As revenue targets loom, the question persists: Can the state effectively balance deterrence with law enforcement? Can local merchants adjust seamlessly? Will the newly christened bootleggers, utilizing SUVs and van rentals, retain a step ahead? Only time will determine, yet the essence of the 1930s endures through the Midwest’s rural routes. The stakes have evolved, with faster access and advanced fakes—but the strategic endeavor remains deeply rooted in Indiana’s legacy.

Image 2

Share this article...

Sign up for our newsletter.

Each month, we will send you a roundup of our latest blog content covering the tax and accounting tips & insights you need to know.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .

We care about the protection of your data.

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions
Type your question here.
Please fill out the form and our team will get back to you shortly The form was sent successfully