Fighting Oppression until the Reign of Castro Ends or the FORCE ActThis bill prohibits removing Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism until the President makes the determination that a transition government in Cuba is in power.
Impact
The enactment of HB450 would solidify the current U.S. stance towards Cuba, reinforcing a long-standing policy that recognizes the country's support for terrorist activities as a critical component of its classification. This would have implications for any potential diplomatic negotiations or sanctions relief that might be discussed or pursued in the future. By tying the status of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism to strict conditions, the bill supports continued diplomatic tensions and limits possible engagements between the U.S. and Cuban governments.
Summary
House Bill 450, known as the FORCE Act (Fighting Oppression until the Reign of Castro Ends), seeks to prevent the removal of Cuba from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism. This designation applies to nations that the Secretary of State determines have engaged in repeated support for international terrorism. The bill stipulates that the President and the Secretary of State cannot remove Cuba from this list until specific conditions outlined in previous legislation are met, thereby maintaining ongoing restrictions against the country.
Contention
While supporters of HB450 argue that it is necessary to ensure Cuba remains accountable for its actions, opponents may contend that the bill restricts the executive branch's ability to respond flexibly to evolving geopolitical contexts. Critics may argue that maintaining Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism complicates efforts to engage in diplomatic and economic relations which could aid in promoting democratic reforms within the country. There are ongoing debates about how such policies affect not only U.S.-Cuba relations but also broader regional dynamics in Latin America.
Fighting Oppression until the Reign of Castro Ends Act or the FORCE Act This bill prohibits removing Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism until the President makes the determination that a transition government in Cuba is in power.
Condemning the Cuban regime and the Chinese Communist Party for their reported intent to build a joint military training base on the island of Cuba, 100 miles from the United States.
Condemning the ongoing acts of repression and human rights violations against the Cuban people by the Cuban regime, and calling for the immediate release of all arbitrarily detained Cuban citizens.
Calling for accountability for grave violations of internationally recognized human rights in Cuba and malign activities against the United States and democratic countries in the Western Hemisphere committed by the Communist regime in Cuba.
Protecting our Land Act This bill requires the President to direct federal agencies to promulgate rules and regulations to prohibit foreign adversaries or state sponsors of terrorism from purchasing real estate located in the United States.