A bill to recognize a Native Hawaiian government was reintroduced in the Senate and House this week as Sen. Daniel Akaka (D) called for a hearing before the Senate Indian Affairs Committee.

The committee's new chairman, Sen. John McCain (R-Arizona), previously said he opposed the bill. But he said he would not hold it up and would allow for a hearing.

Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle (R) supports the bill and wants to testify sometime in late February or early March.

Get the Story:
Akaka requests hearing for Native Hawaiian bill (The Honolulu Advertiser 1/26)
Akaka Reintroduces Hawaiian Rights Bill (AP 1/25)

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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