BIG MOVES

Obama Easing Cuba Travel Restrictions

Cuban citizens now able to earn a salary in the U.S.

The White House announced Tuesday that it would lift more travel and transaction restrictions between the U.S. and Cuba. President Obama is scheduled to travel to Cuba next week, which will be the first time a sitting president has set foot in the country in 90 years. The Obama administration said it will now allow Americans to travel to Cuba for “people to people” educational trips. Cuban citizens will also now be able to earn a salary in the United States, and the new rules will also lift current limitations on the use of American money in transactions with the country. Treasury Secretary Jacob J. Lew said in a statement: "Today's steps build on the actions of the last 15 months as we continue to break down economic barriers, empower the Cuban people and advance their financial freedoms, and chart a new course in U.S.-Cuba relations."