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Earlier this month, the Freedom to Export to Cuba Act was re-introduced by a bipartisan group of senators proposing the removal of the trade embargo placed on Cuba.
With aims to normalize trade relations with Cuba, Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Elizabeth Warren’s (D-MA) bill was re-introduced in order to “create new economic opportunities by boosting U.S. exports and allowing Cubans greater access to American goods,” as quoted in a statement from Klobuchar’s office.
The bill reiterates that other U.S. laws regarding Cuba’s human rights-based injustices be kept intact. As stated by Senator Murphy, “ we can expand opportunities for American businesses and farmers to trade with Cuba while still holding the Cuban government accountable for its human rights record. This bipartisan legislation is a smart fix that will create American jobs and benefit the Cuban people.”
Additional support of the bill has been found in Senate Finance Committee Chair, Ron Wyden (D-OR) who has pushed for increased licenses for Cuba’s small and medium-sized businesses as well as international banking access.
Strong opposition to the bill is expected, potentially including from Senator Rick Scott (R-FL), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Bob Menendez (D-NJ), who serves as the Senate Foreign Relations Chair.
A copy of the bill has not yet been released.
