Saturday, May 25, 2013
Native Hawaiian recognition bill dies in Senate
POSTED: 12:04 p.m. HST, Dec 22, 2010
LAST UPDATED: 03:57 p.m. HST, Dec 22, 2010
U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka says "misleading attacks" and "unprecedented obstruction" led to the demise of a measure granting Native Hawaiians self-governance rights.
The Democrat from Hawaii made his comments on the Senate floor Wednesday, and he said he's committed to pushing the legislation even after newly elected Republicans take office next month.
Akaka said opponents of the bill spread misinformation about the bill by claiming it allowed Native Hawaiians to secede, private lands to be taken and gambling to be permitted.
He asked his fellow senators to back Hawaii's members of Congress in approving this state-specific measure.
The legislation, known as the Akaka Bill, passed the House in February but never received a vote in the Senate.
Pared-down Akaka Bill passes U.S. Senate committee
Lingle declares Akaka Bill support
Time tight for Akaka Bill
Native Hawaiian measure tacked onto spending bill
Don't dally with bill, Akaka told
Akaka launches last-minute effort for his Native Hawaiian bill
Lawyers' group supports Akaka Bill in letter to senators
U.S. Senate panel to hear Akaka Bill
Even pared down, Akaka Bill fulfills goal of Hawaiians
Stalling, secret talks doomed prime moment for Akaka Bill
‘Soul Sessions’ feat. RootHub
