U.S. government agency moves to ban menthol cigarettes

Washington, April 30 (RHC)-- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is moving to ban the sale and manufacturing of menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars.  The FDA claims the move could potentially save 633,000 lives by 2050, with the benefits being most felt in the African American community. 

For decades, tobacco companies have heavily marketed menthol cigarettes to communities of color.  The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), however, is warning this could lead to greater policing in areas where underground menthol markets pop up. 

The ACLU cited the case of Eric Garner, who was killed by police in New York after being accused by police of selling untaxed cigarettes.