The Cigar Association of America is presenting Illinois State Senator Cristina Castro (D-22) and State Representative Bob Rita (D-28) with its inaugural CAA Leadership in Commerce Award for their leadership in working with CAA to pass the cigar tax cap, which Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) signed into law. The bill caps the tax on premium cigars at $.75 through 2029. 

The Cigar Association of America President Scott Pearce described the effort saying, “Our organization values the leadership that Sen. Castro and Rep. Rita provided in our effort to ensure that Illinois cigar businesses and consumers are not paying a disproportionate share of taxes on these products. Working with CAA’s team in Springfield, both legislators went above and beyond to enact this cap, and we are pleased to honor them with our inaugural Leadership in Commerce Award.”

“This achievement was the result of thoughtful collaboration with CAA stakeholders and advocates who brought important perspectives to the table,” said honoree, State Sen. Cristina Castro (D-Elgin). “I’m proud of what we were able to accomplish together, and I’m honored to receive the award.”

House honoree Rep. Rita expressed his reaction to the news, “I’m honored to earn this national recognition from the Cigar Association of America. Getting the cigar tax cap passed was no easy task, and I appreciate all of the efforts of the CAA to help move it across the finish line in the General Assembly.”

Backed by registered lobbyists in 47 states, CAA has seen a wave of successes in state capitals during the 2026 legislative sessions; additional awards will be announced in the coming weeks.