US Federal 2023-2024 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HB314

Introduced
1/12/23  
Refer
1/12/23  

Caption

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.

Impact

If enacted, HB314 would ensure that the U.S. government's approach towards Cuba remains consistent with national security objectives tied to terrorism. The bill reinforces existing legal frameworks that define what constitutes support for terrorism and aims to hold the Cuban government accountable for its historical actions. By explicitly prohibiting the removal of Cuba from the terrorism list, it would limit the executive branch's ability to unilaterally alter this designation without meeting predefined conditions, thereby creating an additional layer of legislative oversight.

Summary

House Bill 314, known as the 'Fighting Oppression until the Reign of Castro Ends Act' or the 'FORCE Act', seeks to maintain Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism. The bill stipulates that this designation cannot be lifted until the President determines that a legitimate transition government is in place in Cuba. This legislation reflects a continuation of stringent U.S. foreign policy towards the island nation, particularly under the Castro regime, which has faced numerous accusations of human rights violations and support for international terrorism.

Conclusion

Overall, HB314 encapsulates a critical discussion on foreign policy and human rights, focusing on the balance between national security and diplomatic engagement. As U.S.-Cuba relations remain fraught with complex historical grievances, this bill stands as a testament to the ongoing struggle over how best to encourage change while addressing security concerns.

Contention

Notable contention around HB314 includes debates on its implications for U.S.-Cuba relations, particularly concerning human rights and economic development. Supporters argue that keeping Cuba on the terrorist list is essential for maintaining pressure on the regime for democratic reforms, while opponents contend that such laws hinder potential diplomatic progress and may exacerbate the humanitarian plight of everyday Cubans. Critics also highlight that rigid policies may fail to recognize positive changes occurring within the island state.

Companion Bills

US SB538

Related bill FORCE Act Fighting Oppression until the Reign of Castro Ends Act

Previously Filed As

US HB450

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.

US SB488

DEMOCRACIA Act Denying Earnings to the Military Oligarchy in Cuba and Restricting Activities of the Cuban Intelligence Apparatus Act

US HB212

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.

US HB458

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.

US HR205

Denouncing the human trafficking and forced labor of and profiteering from Cuban medical personnel serving in third-world countries.

US HB8103

To prohibit the use of funds to use military force in or against Cuba, and for other purposes.

US HJR153

To direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Republic of Cuba that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR124

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Republic of Cuba that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR193

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Republic of Cuba that have not been authorized by Congress.

US HCR106

To direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Republic of Cuba that have not been authorized by Congress.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.