Understanding HR450: FORCE Act

The FORCE Act, officially known as H.R. 450, is a bill that would change how the U.S. government handles its relationship with Cuba. Specifically, it would prevent the President from removing Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism until certain conditions are met. These conditions include the establishment of a transition government in Cuba that schedules free elections recognized internationally within a year. Additionally, this transition government must release all political prisoners who have been detained for their views. It must also show progress in following the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which is a set of principles that promote basic human rights and freedoms. Furthermore, the transition government must legalize independent political parties and allow opposition media to operate freely. These changes are meant to strengthen the existing restrictions on delisting Cuba, which was put back on the state sponsors of terrorism list in January 2021 after being removed in 2015. The bill seeks to ensure that Cuba makes real progress towards democracy and human rights before any changes in its status are considered.

This bill has significant implications for both the Cuban government and the Cuban people. By keeping Cuba on the list of state sponsors of terrorism, the U.S. maintains economic sanctions that can impact Cuba's economy. This can affect the daily lives of Cuban citizens, who may face shortages of goods and services as a result. For Cuban-Americans, particularly those in Florida, this bill is important because it addresses issues of human rights and democracy in Cuba. Many have family members still living in Cuba and are concerned about their well-being under the current regime. The bill aims to pressure the Cuban government to make changes that could improve the lives of ordinary Cubans. For everyday Americans, the bill also has implications for national security. By keeping Cuba on the list, the U.S. aims to prevent any potential threats that could arise from Cuba's alleged ties to terrorist activities. This is an important consideration for those concerned about safety and security.

- Prevents premature normalization: Supporters argue that delisting Cuba without reforms would reward a regime that supports terrorism and represses dissidents. - Promotes democracy: The bill mandates a transition government with free elections, addressing Cuba's lack of multi-party democracy. - Secures release of political prisoners: It targets the release of over 1,000 detainees, addressing human rights abuses. - Upholds human rights: Requires progress on human rights, countering Cuba's documented abuses. - Protects U.S. national security: Maintains sanctions to deter Cuba's ties to hostile entities, preventing potential attacks.

- Limits presidential flexibility: Critics argue that the rigid conditions could hinder diplomatic efforts and leverage. - Prolongs economic suffering: Sanctions may exacerbate shortages and punish civilians more than elites. - Ignores progress: The bill may overlook Cuba's cooperation on issues like extradition and migration. - Partisan overreach: Some see it as a unilateral action that may not succeed without bipartisan support. - Escalates tensions: Critics worry it could increase tensions without effective enforcement mechanisms.