Washington, DC - Congressman Wm. Lacy Clay (D) Missouri, strongly praised President Barack Obama’s easing of restrictions for Cuban American families who wish to visit their relatives and send money home to help their loved ones. “President Obama’s decision to end restrictions on travel and remittances by Cuban Americans will help restore families who have been separated for far too long,” said the Congressman. “These new rules will also allow humanitarian aid and financial assistance to be given without the interference of politics.”

The Congressman continued, “The Cuban people deserve real freedom, fair elections and the restoration of individual liberties. We can promote these vital objectives by supporting, instead of dividing families, and causing greater hardship. That’s why I support the President’s decision.”

Cuban Americans will now be able to make unlimited transfers of money and visits to relatives in Cuba. About 1.5 million Americans have relatives in Cuba.
Other steps taken by the President include expanding items allowed in gift parcels sent to Cuba. The Obama administration will also begin issuing licenses for American companies to provide cellular phone and television services to Cubans.