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The Cigar Association of America (CAA) has announced the first recipients of its new Leadership in Commerce and Leadership in Advocacy Awards, recognizing lawmakers and industry members for their work on cigar-related legislation and advocacy during the 2026 legislative session.

According to the association, the awards recognize efforts that affected premium cigar taxation, retail regulations, consumer access, and small businesses across several states.

The Leadership in Commerce recipients include:

  • Illinois: State Senator Cristina Castro and State Representative Bob Rita were recognized for legislation establishing a 75-cent premium cigar tax cap through 2029.
  • North Carolina: State Representative Kyle Hall was honored for sponsoring a resolution that established the North Carolina Cigar Caucus, a bipartisan group intended to increase legislative engagement with the cigar industry.
  • South Dakota: Governor Larry Rhoden, House Majority Leader Will Mortenson, and Senate President Pro Tempore Chris Karr were recognized for legislation allowing new cigar lounges to be licensed in the state.
    Rhode Island: Senate Majority Leader Frank A. Ciccone and House Finance Committee Chairman Scott A. Slater received recognition for their efforts in opposing a proposed 300 percent increase to the state’s cigar tax.
  • Utah: Senate Majority Leader Kirk Cullimore Jr. was honored for legislation permitting online cigar sales and shipments into the state while updating the state’s regulatory framework.

CAA also presented its inaugural Leadership in Advocacy Award to Mike Gold of Arango Cigar Co. and Phil Ledbetter of Up Down Cigars for their involvement in supporting Illinois’ premium cigar tax cap.

“The inaugural Leadership in Commerce and Leadership in Advocacy Awards reflect CAA’s commitment to recognizing the individuals whose leadership strengthens the cigar industry at both the legislative and grassroots levels,” the association said. “The Association looks forward to building on these successes and continuing to educate policymakers across the country.”

Award Recipients at a Glance

Leadership in Commerce

  • Illinois: Sen. Cristina Castro and Rep. Bob Rita
  • North Carolina: Rep. Kyle Hall
  • South Dakota: Gov. Larry Rhoden, House Majority Leader Will Mortenson, Senate President Pro Tempore Chris Karr
  • Rhode Island: Senate Majority Leader Frank A. Ciccone, House Finance Committee Chairman Scott A. Slater
  • Utah: Senate Majority Leader Kirk Cullimore Jr.

Leadership in Advocacy

  • Mike Gold (Arango Cigar Co.)
  • Phil Ledbetter (Up Down Cigars)