Some members of Congress strongly oppose resuming full diplomatic relations with Cuba. They argue that the effort will benefit an oppressive government much more than it will benefit the United States. Welch disagrees with this analysis, and says full access to the Internet will help Cuba move to a more democratic society.

"I don't think it's a reward; I think it's a threat. I mean, the Castro brothers have got basically a fence around the island,” Welch says. “They control everything and they oppress people politically. Our non-engagement with them has not worked as a way to facilitate democratic development and opportunity in Cuba. So the policy has failed."

A companion bill lifting the travel ban has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Patrick Leahy. The proposal is strongly backed by the Obama Administration.