The Obama administration announced Thursday plans to ease travel restrictions to Cuba that have been in place for 50 years, The New York Times has learned.
Americans will now be able to travel to Cuba for a number of designated reasons without the need of a government license, according to the administration's new adjustments that take effect Friday. Airlines and travel agents will also be allowed to make arrangements for Cuba without a license, The NY Times reported.
The ease in restrictions comes during an ongoing historic restoration of diplomatic ties between the U.S. and the communist island nation about a month after Cuba released an American aid worker held prisoner five years. The U.S. also freed Cuban prisoners jailed for alleged spy activity in Florida.
Before the policy changes, Americans were not allowed to send more than $500 to Cuba every three months. Now they will be able to send up to $2,000. Travelers can also use their credit cards in Cuba and bring back up to $400 in souvenirs - as well as up to $100 in booze, according to The NY Times.
While some republicans feel Obama is being foolish by easing restrictions without more actions on behalf of Cuban President Raul Castro, Obama says it's time for a different approach as opposed the way things have been done for the last half century.
The next step is to ultimately re-open a U.S. embassy and appoint an ambassador to Cuba, The NY Times reported.
"These changes will have a direct impact in further engaging and empowering the Cuban people, prompting positive change for Cuba's citizens," Treasury Secretary Jacob J. Lew said.
"Cuba has real potential for economic growth, and by increasing travel, commerce, communications, and private business development between the United States and Cuba, the United States can help the Cuban people determine their own future."
