Bill would repeal U.S. trade embargo against Cuba

What does this do?

This bill would lift the long-standing U.S. trade embargo against Cuba by removing many laws that have blocked trade, travel, and money transfers between the two countries. Americans could travel to Cuba freely, U.S. companies could sell goods and services there, and remittances to Cuba would no longer be capped. Cuban goods would be taxed the same as goods from most other countries, and U.S. phone and internet carriers could operate between the two nations.

Who does it affect?

The bill would affect American travelers, U.S. businesses, phone and internet carriers, and people who send money to Cuba. It also directs the President to negotiate with Cuba on property claims and human rights, and requires a report to Congress within a year and a half of passage.

Why does it matter?

If passed, the rules that have limited contact between the U.S. and Cuba for decades would no longer apply. Americans and U.S. companies would have new legal freedom to travel, trade, and communicate with Cuba.

Where does it stand?