Trump Expected to Reverse Obama-Era Cuba Policies

The future of American travel to Cuba appears very much up in the air as multiple sources tell CNN that President Donald Trump is seeking a reversal of some Obama-era policies that eased tensions with the island nation.

According to a U.S. government official familiar with the review of current U.S. policy toward Cuba, along with other current and former administration officials and some Cuba experts, the policy rollbacks could begin as early as June.

Trump would be fulfilling a campaign promise by undoing some of former President Barack Obama's policies.

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Prior to winning office, Trump was adamant about reversing course with the Cuban government unless it made concessions on various issues, including human rights and religious freedoms.

"I'm 1,000 percent sure the president is going to deliver on his commitment," Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Florida) told the National Journal this month. "I have no doubt that you're going to see in short order a different policy."

The aforementioned sources told CNN that the Trump administration is still considering making it harder for Americans to visit Cuba.

Tighter controls could potentially mean a new ban on Cuban cigars and rum. Trump could also do away with the U.S. Treasury Department practice that allows American travelers to legally visit the island under one of 12 different categories, including education and family trips.

CNN's report comes just days after a bipartisan group of U.S. senators reintroduced legislation aimed at eliminating all travel restrictions to Cuba.

The Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act has majority support with 55 co-sponsors, including 10 Republicans.

"This level of bipartisanship is unparalleled in today's polarized political environment," Engage Cuba President James Williams told The Hill. "Removing burdensome regulations on travel to Cuba will allow Americans to exercise their right to travel freely, create U.S. jobs and support Cuba's growing private sector."

READ MORE: Major US Hotels Are Betting on Cuban Tourism

Travel industry leaders from both countries have encouraged Trump to minimize any rollbacks. After all, travel from the U.S. to Cuba increased 74 percent in 2016. 

Therefore, any drastic policy changes could have a direct impact on earnings for airlines, cruise lines, hotels and other industry suppliers.

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