CAA Announces Inaugural Leadership in Commerce and Leadership in Advocacy Award Recipients
The Cigar Association of America (CAA), the leading national trade association representing the cigar industry, has named the first recipients of its new Leadership in Commerce and Leadership in Advocacy Awards. The honors recognize lawmakers and industry advocates for their contributions during the 2026 legislative session in advancing policies that support small businesses, consumer choice, fair taxation, and access related to premium cigars. The awards were highlighted at the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Legislative Summit in Chicago, where CAA celebrated efforts across Illinois, North Carolina, South Dakota, Rhode Island, and Utah.
Leadership in Commerce Award Recipients honor elected officials who advanced key legislative measures:
Illinois: State Senator Cristina Castro and State Representative Bob Rita were recognized for their work establishing a 75-cent premium cigar tax cap through 2029. The measure was signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker.
North Carolina: State Representative Kyle Hall received the award for sponsoring a resolution that created the North Carolina Cigar Caucus, a bipartisan group aimed at increasing legislative engagement with the state’s cigar and tobacco heritage and related businesses.
South Dakota: Governor Larry Rhoden, House Majority Leader Will Mortenson, and Senate President Pro Tempore Chris Karr were honored for legislation that allows 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 were recognized for their efforts 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 regulatory framework.
Leadership in Advocacy Award RecipientsThe inaugural Leadership in Advocacy Award went to industry members Mike Gold of Arango Cigar Co. and Phil Ledbetter of Up Down Cigars. They were recognized for their grassroots work supporting the successful passage of Illinois’ premium cigar tax cap. CAA stated that the awards reflect its commitment to recognizing individuals whose leadership strengthens the cigar industry at both the legislative and grassroots levels. The association noted it looks forward to building on these successes and continuing to educate policymakers nationwide. The Cigar Association of America represents manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, and suppliers across the cigar industry. It focuses on advocacy at federal and state levels on issues including taxation, regulation, and consumer access.