Illinois' new chief doctor plans to tour the state to discuss public health and to voice his support for a proposed cigarette tax increase.

Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck will share his goals for the Illinois Department of Public Health at meetings around the state. He also will seek input from local health officials.

Gov. Pat Quinn appointed Hasbrouck to the head the health department last month.

Hasbrouck says he believes the governor's proposed cigarette tax can help prevent chronic disease. The governor wants to increase the cigarette tax by $1.

Next week, Hasbrouck will be in East St. Louis, Murphysboro, Champaign, Peoria and Rock Island. The following week he will be in Quincy and Rockford.