Martinez Introduces Bill to Block Cuba Oil Production

MARTINEZ INTRODUCES BILL TO BLOCK CUBA OIL PRODUCTION

U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-FL) today introduced legislation that would block Cuba from engaging in the production of oil and/or natural gas resources off the coast of Florida. The bill would not weaken enforcement of current U.S. Maritime policy.

"This bill sends a clear message that any attempt to develop Cuba's oil exploration program will be met with strong sanctions," said Martinez.

The Martinez bill is the companion bill to legislation introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen late last week.

The bill specifically amends the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act of 1996 to deny U.S. visas to any foreign agent or entity that contributes to the development of Cuba's oil-exploration program. The bill further imposes sanctions on any individuals or entities that invest $1 million or more to develop Cuba's oil and natural gas resources.

Regarding any action that would attempt to weaken the overall Cuban embargo, Senator Martinez said, "It would be foolish to put the future of America's energy resources in the hands of an anti-American dictator with a record of expropriating U.S. oil company assets. Doing so would create greater dependence on a foreign entity which is directly contrary to the direction of U.S. policy."

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