The confusion over the higher prices, raised before April 1, has even prompted some customers to file complaints with the state Attorney General's office.

"I just walked in one day and was pretty angry about it. I remember asking the question, 'wait it's not April 1 yet,'" said Mary Paushel, a 20 year smoker and customer at Smoker Friendly. It's the same question almost every customer who has walked into the Smoker Friendly in Bellview in the past week has asked.

"The (customers) didn't think the tax went into effect until April, and they all say it's the tax, but they don't realize it's the manufacturer price increase," said Dee Phillips, manager at Smoker Friendly.

Employees explain that the manufacturer price increase is to help pay the tax on all stockpiled inventory.

"They are trying to build up money to pay for the tax on all inventory they have in their warehouse," said Assistant Manager Brandon Pitrolo.

While related, the manufacturers increase is separate from the federal tax. That means customers will be hit with another increase in April.

One week ago a carton of Marlboro Lights cost $31. Now with the manufacturer's increase, it costs about $40. On April 1 when the federal tax goes into effect, it will cost about $48 a carton.

"I can understand some taxes, sure. But not a double whammy like this!" said Paushel.

For some customers a nearly $20 increase in one month is just too much.

"I've been smoking Marlboros since I was 18 and I just can't afford to do it anymore," said Pitrolo.

"Prices were just $3 a pack not more than 3 weeks ago. In two weeks, its $5 a pack. I'm going to have to quit smoking soon," said smoker Jonathan Carroll.

For others its a hard habit to kick.

"No, I'm an adult. I'm going to do what I want to do, I'm just going to cut back elsewhere," said Paushel.

As for employees, they say, so far business remains steady but are unsure of what will come in April.

"I think it will hurt us a little bit, but I don't think its going to be too much- hopefully," said Phillips.

On top of those price increases, a bill in the legislature that could increase state taxes from 55 cents to $1.20 a pack.