Some Maryland lawmakers are hoping to crackdown on the smuggling of cigarettes.
The measure in Annapolis would create a mandatory $150 fine per carton for anyone who tried to smuggle cigarettes and other tobacco products.
Yesterday state police said they have been catching smugglers mostly along Route 113 in Worcester County.
State authorities say there was a 150 percent increase in the amount of smokes seized last month when compared to this time last year.
So far during this fiscal year, there has been around 115 arrests for smuggling them into the state amounting to 260-thousand packs of cigarettes.
Marcus Thomas, who manages a convenience store in Pocomoke City told WBOC, that he finds himself competing with the smugglers.
The House of Delegates is expected to consider the measure next week.
