The National Tour Association came out in support of the Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act (H.R.874 and S. 428), announced March 31 by Senate sponsors Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) and Michael Enzi (R-Wyo.) and co-sponsors Christopher Dodd (D-Conn.) and Richard Lugar (R-Ind.).

Representatives Bill Delahunt (D-Mass.), Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) as well as Sam Farr (D-Calif.), co-chair of the House Tourism Caucus, introduced the legislation Thursday.

"NTA has supported this issue for many years, and we now stand strongly behind the passage of this legislation," said NTA President Lisa Simon.

"Americans should have the opportunity to explore the world unfettered by travel and currency restrictions. We anticipate a very high demand for tours to Cuba through our tour operator members who see phenomenal curiosity for travel there. With the Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act, Americans can travel to Cuba to experience the rich diversity of Cuban culture and heritage," Simon said.

Re-examination of travel restrictions, which is addressed by the act, was one of seven recommendations submitted to President Obama and leaders of Congress as the result of the December 2008 summit of travel and tourism organizations.

"Once the legislation is passed, success in this new market will depend on helping our tour operators learn about Cuba," Simon said. "We stand ready to assist them in this new business development."