May 2015

The U.S. Department of State rescinded Cuba’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism today.  While the rescission of Cuba’s designation eliminates a major hurdle in restoring diplomatic ties with Cuba, the U.S. trade embargo against Cuba remains in effect, including its restrictions on investment, trade, and travel with Cuba.  Congress has the sole authority to lift the trade embargo.

Rescission of Cuba’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism, however, will affect companies and individuals the following ways:

While Iran has taken center stage in current foreign policy discussions, Congress and the Administration are keenly aware that Cuba is on deck. Following President Obama’s historic meeting with Cuban President Raúl Castro and his announcement of intent to remove Cuba from the list of states that sponsor terrorism, members of Congress have responded by introducing bills both supporting and opposing the President’s policies, including: