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For decades, tobacco companies have misled the public about the dangers of their products and used deceptive practices to lure children into a lifelong addiction to tobacco. In 1999, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a RICO (Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organizations Act) case alleging that for 50 years the tobacco industry has commited fraud against the American public. The trial, conducted over the past nine months, ended with closing arguments on June 15. 

Intially, a remedy sought by the Department of Justice was a $5 billion-per-year comprehensive tobacco cessation effort over the next 25 years to help every smoker who wants to quit. However, the trial ended with a surprise request from the Justice Department that the tobacco companies only fund a $2 billion per year, five-year smoking cessation program. 

The American Lung Association and many other health organizations are outraged at the unexpected weakening change in approach.  Media accounts suggest that this change may be the result of tobacco industry influence on senior Justice Department officials.

Please help and send a letter to President Bush and Attorney General Gonzales today!  A copy of your letter will be sent to your Senators and Member of Congress too.