The Legislature approved the additional fee on tobacco prices last year as part of a budget solution. But it should keep the higher prices -- regardless of what the court decides -- as a matter of good health policy.

It's good health policy to have higher cigarette prices. It prevents kids from starting to smoke and it encourages adults to quit.

Community funding plays a significant role in helping Prevention Minnesota achieve its ambitious goal of making Minnesota a healthier place to live, work, and play. This is yet another way we're able to get local communities involved in improving the health of Minnesotans.

We want to ensure that our members always receive the safest and highest quality care possible. An achievement like this is part of our dedication to our mission of making a healthy difference in people's lives.

We're thrilled to have the resources to assist in this area and we look forward to strong interest from communities throughout the state.