Secretary of Interior Gale Norton said the Bush administration wants to help Native Hawaiians avoid "pitfalls" that American Indians and Alaska Natives face.

Norton said the administration is concerned about a bill that would recognize Native Hawaiians. She said the bill should clarify the relationship between the state government and the Native Hawaiian government, particularly when it comes to jurisdiction.

The Bush administration has given a cool reception to the recognition bill. Department of Interior officials are working with Hawaii's Congressional delegation to make changes.

Get the Story:
Akaka bill could face revision, Norton says (The Honolulu Advertiser 1/12)

Relevant Links:
Native Hawaiian Sovereignty Site - http://www.hawaii-nation.org
Native Hawaiians, Department of Interior - http://www.doi.gov/nativehawaiians
Native Hawaiian Federal Recognition Site - http://www.nativehawaiians.com

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