Bill > S488

This bill, known as the DEMOCRACIA Act (Denying Earnings to the Military Oligarchy in Cuba and Restricting Activities of the Cuban Intelligence Apparatus Act), is a comprehensive legislative effort to impose sanctions on the Cuban government and support democratic change in Cuba. The bill begins by extensively documenting human rights abuses by the Cuban Communist Party, including suppression of protests, arbitrary arrests, and systemic oppression, particularly highlighting the July 11, 2021 demonstrations. It establishes a U.S. policy to support Cuban people's desire for freedom and democracy by restricting financial resources of the Cuban military, security, and intelligence sectors. The bill mandates sanctions against foreign persons engaging in financial transactions with specified Cuban government sectors, including blocking property, revoking visas, and restricting entry into the United States. Additionally, it imposes sanctions on individuals responsible for human rights abuses and corruption, and requires the President to work towards providing unrestricted internet service to Cuban citizens. The sanctions can be lifted only if Cuba meets specific conditions, such as legalizing political activity, releasing political prisoners, holding free and fair elections, establishing an independent judiciary, and respecting human rights. The bill also emphasizes preventing technological support from China and requires the creation of an interagency task force to develop long-term internet access solutions for Cuba.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/488/all-info