Chap. 9.—JOINT RESOLUTION in relation to the reduction of the
present Federal tax on manufactured tobacco.

Approved December 29, 1877.

Whereas one of the great staple products of Virginia has
been for years burdened by excessive Federal taxation; and
whereas the culture and manufacture of tobacco is an indus-
try which occupies the attention of a large part of our pop-
ulation, and furnishes one of the largest exports of our state;
and whereas the present system of taxation on this subject
by the Federal government has produced a great depression
in this important branch of our trade; therefore,

1. Be it resolved by the general assembly, That our sena-
tors be instructed, and our representatives in the congress of
the United States be requested to use their utmost endeavors
to secure the passage of a bill having for its object the reduc-
tion of the present Federal tax on manufactured tobacco
from twenty-four to twelve cents per pound.

2. Resolved, That the governor be requested to furnish a
copy of these resolutions to each of our senators and repre-
sentatives in congress.