{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where state = \"HI\" and year = 2016 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/in-the-news/star-advertiser-new-federal-law-protect-keiki-service-ohana", "Star Advertiser: New federal law to protect keiki in service ohana", "2016-12-30", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Originally published in the Honolulu Star Advertiser:\u00a0http://www.staradvertiser.com/2016/12/30/hawaii-news/new-federal-law-to-protect-keiki-in-service-ohana/\n New federal law to protect keiki in service ohana \nSuspected cases of child abuse on military bases must now be reported to state child welfare officials under a new federal law that was championed by U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard and U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono.\nThe measure, known as Talia\u2019s Law, named for a young girl who was beaten to death by her father at Wheeler Army Airfield in Wahiawa, was signed into law by President Barack Obama last week as part of the National Defense Authorization Act.\nTalia Williams was just 5 years old when her father punched her in the chest so hard that she fell backward, hitting her head on the concrete floor of the family\u2019s military quarters and dying. She had suffered months of abuse by her father and stepmother, who are imprisoned for her murder. Williams\u2019 father is serving a life sentence after escaping the death penalty.\nUntil now the military has dealt with cases of child abuse internally. Under Talia\u2019s Law physicians, social workers, teachers and other professionals who serve military personnel and their families are required to also report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect directly to state Child Protective Services or its equivalent agency within a state.\nSupporters of the measure hope that it will give an added layer of protection to children who are being abused on military bases.\n\u201cWe are absolutely thrilled that this horrible tragedy that befell this little girl is ultimately going to result in a fix that may save hundreds and hundreds of kids who are at risk of abuse within the military,\u201d said Honolulu attorney Mark Davis, who represented Talia Williams\u2019 biological mother, Tarshia Hampton, in a civil case against the U.S. government, winning a $2 million settlement.\n\u201cWhen the obligation is to report to the chain of command, the whole outlook is to treat the abuser as if it is a disciplinary problem that can be reported, whereas in the state system the whole emphasis is on protecting the child,\u201d he said.\nIn the Army alone, beatings, torture and starvation caused the death of 118 children between 2003 and 2012, according to an investigation by Military Times published in 2013. Overall, nearly 30,000 children had suffered from some type of abuse or neglect.\nThe rate of child abuse in the Army was 4.5 cases per 1,000 children for 2011, compared with a civilian rate of 27.4 cases per 1,000 children. However, the investigation found that Army cases had spiked 28 percent between 2008 and 2011.\nThe final punch that Naeem Williams delivered to his daughter left knuckle imprints in her chest, according to Davis. At trial the girl\u2019s stepmother testified that Talia Williams had been denied food for days at a time, duct-taped to a bed and whipped. Her father admitted that she had been abused daily, much of it over her problems with potty training.\nGabbard introduced Talia\u2019s Law, which was unanimously by passed the House of Representatives in February. In the Senate, Hirono included it as part of the National Defense Authorization Act.\n\u201cUntil now, the same gaps in the military\u2019s reporting requirements that failed to protect Talia and so many other military children remained,\u201d Gabbard said in a news release. \u201cEnactment of Talia\u2019s Law closes these gaps by requiring the same protections that exist for any other child to also protect children in military families.\u201d\nWhile Gabbard was a champion of Talia\u2019s Law, she voted against the National Defense Authorization Act, which easily made it through both the Senate and House. Gabbard opposed the act, in part, because she said it would worsen the war in Syria, which she opposes.\nHirono also said that the law would help close gaps in protections for children of military personnel.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/in-the-news/la-times-child-abuse-military-failing-those-most-need", "LA Times: Child abuse in the military: Failing those most in need", "2016-12-29", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Originally published in the LA Times:\u00a0http://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-child-abuse-military-20161229-htmlstory.html\n Child abuse in the military: Failing those most in need \nIn \u00a0September 2011, Army Sgt. 1st Class Crispen Hanson\u2019s commander at Ft.\u00a0Bliss ordered him into a military treatment program for child abusers.\nTexas child welfare authorities had formally\u00a0reported a\u00a0\u201creason to believe\u201d the 20-year Army veteran had severely beaten his 6-month-old son, Malachi, leaving him with a broken leg.\nFor the next four months, Hanson met weekly with a therapist from the Family Advocacy Program, a $200-million-a-year Pentagon program known as FAP that seeks to prevent child abuse in the ranks.\nWhen Hanson completed the therapy, FAP officials closed the case and a state judge allowed him to see his infant son.\nBut three months later, on April 9, 2012, El Paso paramedics called to Hanson\u2019s house found Malachi dead. An autopsy found \u201cblunt force injuries\u201d and \u201cinnumerable contusions of the head, torso\u00a0and extremities.\u201d\nThe county medical examiner ruled the death a homicide.\nLast year, Hanson pleaded guilty to two counts of injuring a child after prosecutors agreed to drop murder charges.\u00a0A state judge sentenced him to probation. The Army gave him an honorable discharge and a full pension of about $28,000 a year.\nArmy officials said the decision to close the FAP case before the infant\u2019s death was appropriate.\u00a0\u201cNo program has a 100% guarantee of success when dealing with individuals,\u201d said William Costlow, an Army spokesman.\u00a0\nThe Pentagon has struggled to deal with a little-noticed cascade of child abuse and neglect cases in military families in the years since America went to war in Iraq and Afghanistan, a Times investigation has found.\nPreviously unreleased reports by the Army, Navy and Air Force reveal numerous cases where military officials knew or suspected that child abuse or neglect was occurring \u2014 but failed to intervene or to alert the Family Advocacy Program or state child welfare agencies, The Times found.\nIn many cases, the reports blamed military personnel for failing to report cases of abuse and neglect to FAP officials.\u00a0\nFAP \u201cis not accessing those most in need due to \u2026 failure on the part of others to report\u00a0concerns or maltreatment incidents,\u201d warned an\u00a0 internal 2014 report on 27 deaths in Army families.\n\u201cIn several cases, command was aware of ongoing abuse but failed to report it,\u201d it added.\nA 2014 report on 50 deaths in Air Force families over five years reached a similar conclusion.\n\u201cIn numerous cases \u2026 Air Force employees and other individuals were aware of suspected child maltreatment or domestic abuse and did not report it to FAP or any other authority,\u201d it said.\nCiting privacy restrictions,\u00a0Pentagon officials redacted parts of each report, which were\u00a0released in response to\u00a0Freedom of Information Act\u00a0requests. The Times was able to identify many victims and their abusers by comparing the reports with\u00a0court records and other legal documents.\nEven senior FAP officials concede they are able to help only a fraction of the children who suffer abuse.\n\u201cWe get about 25% of the incidents,\u201d said Rene Robichaux,\u00a0who oversees an Army-wide\u00a0clinical\u00a0child abuse treatment program from the Army Medical Command in San Antonio. \u201cThe rest occur behind closed doors.\u201d\nAmerica\u2019s longest wars already have been associated with poor\u00a0mental health in military families, behavioral problems in children, a higher risk of divorce, and higher rates of suicide, studies show.\nExperts now add child abuse to that tragic list.\n\u201cWe have a relatively high rate of child maltreatment,\u201d said Dr. Sharon Cooper, a pediatrician and retired Army colonel\u00a0who treats child abuse\u00a0victims at Ft.\u00a0Bragg in North Carolina.\u00a0\u201cAnd we know that child abuse and neglect is highly influenced by deployment.\u201d\nChild fatalities have soared even as the armed forces have shrunk by 10% in recent years.\nFatalities more than doubled from 14 in 2003 to 38 in 2012. They\u00a0remained above 30 a year through 2014 before dropping to 23 in 2015, the last year that Pentagon records are available. Overall,\u00a0FAP\u00a0counted 5,378 child abuse and neglect victims in military families in 2015.\nThe Pentagon long has claimed that child abuse is less severe in the military than in the\u00a0civilian population. The military weeds out alcohol and drug users with random tests\u00a0and annual fitness reports, and the mental strain of unemployment isn\u2019t a problem.\nMoreover, base commanders are supposed to monitor their troops\u2019 daily lives and the welfare of their families. They can order FAP to counsel parents and even temporarily bar service members from contact with their families in abuse cases.\u00a0\nMilitary bases also are required to cooperate closely with state child welfare agencies, which share responsibility for protecting children in military families living on and off U.S. installations.\nBut in the last five years, the rate of child abuse and neglect in the military has gone up sharply \u2014 from 4.8\u00a0incidents per 1,000 children\u00a0to 7.2 incidents, according to Pentagon records. Civilian rates vary depending on how they\u2019re counted, but generally are higher.\nThe failure of base commanders to intervene has sparked special concern among child welfare advocates.\nExperts say those failures may occur because a criminal charge of child abuse\u00a0can lead to a soldier\u2019s discharge \u2014 costing the family its livelihood \u2014 and also can be seen as a blot on a commander\u2019s record.\n\u201cThere's a real reluctance to address child abuse fatalities in the military because it's a career-ender for soldiers,\u201d said Theresa Covington, head of the National Center for the Review and Prevention of Child Deaths, a nonprofit group in Washington that works closely with the Pentagon.\nUnderlying the problems is the belief at senior levels of the Pentagon that the military can handle family violence by ordering an accused abuser into FAP counseling, experts say.\n\u201cUltimately an allegation\u00a0of abuse is plopped down on the desk of some commander, who is supposed to take action, as if ... you can discipline somebody who is abusing their children and make them stop, which is absurd,\u201d said Mark Davis, an attorney involved in a decadelong lawsuit against the Army over the abuse death of 5-year-old girl on a military base in Hawaii.\nCreated after the Vietnam War, FAP now has more than 2,000 case workers and administrators. They offer help to 1.2 million active-duty couples\u00a0and 1.1 million children\u00a0at almost every U.S. military base, including in Germany, Japan and other overseas posts where families are allowed.\nIn the most violent cases, FAP officials can seek a protective order from the military that bars an abusive parent from contact with a child, or ask a civilian court to place a battered child in foster care.\nFAP and Pentagon officials say the program provides valuable counseling, parenting classes, home visits and other help to thousands of military families, many of them young parents living on their own for the first time.\n\u201cThe welfare of our service members and their family members warrants the highest priority in the Department of Defense,\u201d said a Pentagon spokesman, Maj. Benjamin E. Sakrisson.\u00a0\u201cThe department is actively committed to keeping children safe and healthy.\u201d\nThe Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines\u00a0all have boosted training and staffing at their FAP operations over the last decade, officials say.\nFAP staffing at Army bases, for instance, has grown from 136 to 390, with many new hires assigned to visit homes of new parents to teach parenting techniques.\nBut some FAP offices are overwhelmed, especially after units deployed overseas return home.\nAt Ft. Bragg, the nation\u2019s largest Army base, soldiers often wait weeks to see a FAP therapist for routine counseling, said Anne Malena, a civilian social worker in private practice who mostly works with Ft. Bragg families.\n\u201cThey\u2019re extremely overworked, and they\u2019re working on crisis situations most of the time,\u201d she said.\nFAP officials contend it is unfair to blame their staff for failing to foresee which military parents will abuse their children when warning signs often are fragmentary or ambiguous.\n\u201cPredicting these kinds of events is an extremely difficult thing to do,\u201d said Dr. Terri Rau, a psychiatrist and senior policy analyst for the Navy\u2019s\u00a0Fleet and Family Support Programs in Norfolk, Va., which oversees\u00a0FAP.\nYet in some cases, there were clear warning signs.\nIn August 2012, for example, Tamryn Klapheke starved to death in her crib at her parents\u2019 house on Dyess Air Force Base in Texas. She was 22 months old.\nState prosecutors said her mother, Tiffany Klapheke, had left the infant without food or water for four days while her husband, an Air Force enlisted man, was overseas. Her two other children were also badly malnourished.\nBoth the base FAP office and Texas\u2019\u00a0Child Protective Services, the state agency responsible for investigating child abuse, had been repeatedly warned of neglect at the house.\nAir Force doctors had notified both offices in 2010 and 2011 that the older children were underweight and had missed medical appointments.\n\u201cThe consequences of not feeding the child could be fatal,\u201d Edward Wilcock, the FAP social worker assigned to Tamryn\u2019s case, wrote in her file in September 2011.\nBut FAP closed its case three months later when Klapheke completed her assigned doctor visits and Tamryn had gained a little weight, records show.\nChild Protective Services in Taylor County, where Dyess is located, closed its own investigation a week before Tamryn starved to death. Its last face-to-face contact with the family was 10 months earlier, courts records show.\nKlapheke, 23, was convicted of injury to a child and sentenced in state court to 30 years in prison. Four employees from Child Protective Services resigned over misconduct in the case. The two older children were placed with a foster family.\nWilcock, who remains employed by FAP at Dyess,\u00a0declined to comment for this story.\nCapt. Nicole Ferrara, a base spokeswoman, said the Air Force investigated whether \u201cvarious personnel met their required duty obligations,\u201d and said \u201cappropriate action was taken to address the findings.\u201d She declined to disclose the findings\u00a0or the action taken.\nFAP\u00a0also failed Kylee Houston, who lived her entire brief life inside the secure gates of Naval Air Station New Orleans.\nJust 14 weeks old, the malnourished infant died in a soiled crib at her home on March 15, 2015. An autopsy blamed accidental suffocation.\nKylee\u2019s twin sister and four siblings, all under age 5, also suffered from extreme neglect, police found.\nState prosecutors put them all in foster care and arrested the parents on charges of cruelty to juveniles and second-degree murder.\nThe father, Navy Seaman Xavier Houston, pleaded guilty in January to cruelty to juveniles and is serving a 10-year prison sentence. His wife, Calendria, is awaiting trial.\nFAP was well aware of the danger.\nOn July 1, 2014, neighbors called the military police when they heard the parents fighting, a frequent occurrence. The police report noted that one child was filthy and the house reeked of dirty diapers.\nThe police shared the report with the base Fleet and Family Support Center, which oversees the FAP\u00a0office. But the\u00a0office\u00a0didn\u2019t inform Louisiana\u2019s child welfare agency, as an agreement between the base and the state required.\nA month later, on Aug. 5, Calendria Houston complained to\u00a0base authorities that her husband had \u201cleft their four children, ranging in age from 3 years old to 5 months old, unattended at their residence,\u201d according to a Navy investigation.\u00a0\nAt his commander\u2019s urging, Xavier Houston had met a FAP counselor \u201ca handful of times\u201d to discuss his strained marriage, but not the welfare of his children, according to Houston\u2019s attorney, Clarke Beljean.\nThat failure angers Charles J. Ballay, the district attorney in Louisiana\u2019s Plaquemines Parish who is prosecuting the parents.\nThe military was \u201caware or should have been aware\u201d that the Houstons were neglecting their children, Ballay said. \u201cSomebody should have taken action to save the life of this young child.\u201d\nThe Navy appears to agree.\nMike Andrews, a Navy spokesman, said \u201cseveral\u201d contractors involved in the Houston case resigned after Kylee\u2019s death. He declined to identify them or say if they quit in response to pending disciplinary action.\nMilitary police on the base were instructed for the first time to notify Louisiana\u2019s child protection agency in cases \u201cinvolving child welfare of any kind,\u201d Andrews said.\nFAP\u00a0has come under fire before.\u00a0\nIn the early 1980s, about a decade after the Army, Navy and Air Force each developed programs for treating domestic violence on military installations, an investigation by federal auditors found the efforts were poorly funded, understaffed and often inadequate.\nCongress provided additional money in response and ordered the Pentagon to keep better track of personnel accused of abuse. After cases continued to increase, Congress in 2001 created an independent task force to evaluate the military\u2019s efforts.\nThe panel issued 193 recommendations, including\u00a0a call for the Pentagon to hire hundreds of \u201cvictim advocates\u201d on military bases to help abused children and spouses, whom panel members felt often received short shrift from FAP.\nThe task force delivered its report to Congress on the same day in March 2003 that U.S. forces invaded Iraq. During a House Armed Services Committee hearing, distracted lawmakers ducked into side rooms to watch the invasion on TV. The Pentagon ultimately adopted many of the changes the panel proposed.\nIn 2011, Jessica Wright, then undersecretary of Defense for personnel and readiness, ordered another \u201ctop-level rapid review\u201d of FAP. It produced 84 \u201cpreliminary ideas\u201d for improvements.\nIt also led to creation of an Integrated Project Team\u00a0to recommend ways to \u201chelp families in need and at risk as early as possible,\u201d said Sakrisson, the Pentagon spokesman.\nRep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and a major in the\u00a0Army National Guard, is one of the few lawmakers to focus on the issue.\nCongress this month passed a national defense authorization bill that includes a provision Gabbard introduced that requires military personnel to immediately report suspected cases of child abuse to FAP and to state child protection agencies.\nYet even when the military and civilian agencies cooperate, victims go undetected.\nIn November 2011, for example, Laquita Lewis told police that her boyfriend, Jerrell Edwards, had punched and nearly strangled her after she complained he was driving too fast. Both sailors were stationed at Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia.\nSince her son Jaiden, who was 2 1/2, was in the vehicle and she was pregnant with Edwards\u2019 child, the FAP office opened an investigation into \u201cchild neglect and domestic physical abuse,\u201d records show.\nNavy commanders ordered the couple to break off contact for a month.\nBut the base \u201cincident determination committee\u201d\u00a0\u2014 a panel that includes senior officers, FAP officials, military police, hospital personnel and others who see abuse cases \u2014 voted to close the case three months later, ruling that Edwards\u2019 behavior \u201cdid not meet criteria for abuse,\u201d records show.\nVirginia Child Protective Services, which had opened a separate investigation, closed its case after social workers made a single visit to Lewis\u2019 apartment.\nEdwards, who broke up with Lewis, was discharged from the Navy for using marijuana. But she let him move in after their baby was born.\nIn April 2012, Lewis found Edwards trying to revive Jaiden at the apartment. The toddler was unconscious and bleeding from the mouth, according to Navy documents.\nJaiden died at the hospital hours later, and an autopsy revealed a \u201cruptured stomach, lacerated liver and bruising to his colon,\u201d as well as an apparent cigarette burn on his foot,\u00a0the records show.\nThe incident determination committee\u00a0reexamined the evidence. This time they concluded that Edwards had repeatedly subjected Jaiden to \u201csevere physical abuse,\u201d case records show.\nEdwards was convicted in May 2014 in state court of murder and child abuse\u00a0and sentenced to 30 years in prison.\u00a0\n\u201cI thought I was doing the right thing by letting him spend time with his new child,\u201d Lewis said in a telephone interview. \u201cIt\u2019s a decision I live with every day. But I can\u2019t help feel that the Navy failed me and Jaiden in some way.\u201d\nNo case better highlighted the military\u2019s failure to protect children than the brutal death of 5-year-old Talia Williams. The tragedy inspired Gabbard, the Hawaii lawmaker hoping to reform FAP, to call her legislation \u201cTalia\u2019s Law.\u201d\n\u201cThis young girl was abused for months and not removed from the abuse, even though she was living in military housing and the military has mandatory reporting,\u201d said Gabbard, a major in the Army National Guard. The procedures \u201cfailed Talia and they have failed many, many other children in military families.\u201d\nTalia was killed in July 2005 after months of near-daily beatings by her stepmother, Delilah Williams, and her father, Spc. Naeem Williams, a soldier at Wheeler Army Airfield in Hawaii.\nAt one point, military police took Talia to a base medical clinic after her day-care center reported bruises on her arms and back.\nTalia told the staff that her father hit her with \u201cMr. Paddle\u201d when he got angry, according to court testimony. But she was returned to her parents.\nOne of her stepmother\u2019s co-workers later went directly to FAP to report her concerns that Talia was being abused. She recounted overhearing Williams say it was \u201cOK to whip a child, just don\u2019t leave any marks,\u201d according to court records.\nHilda Borja, the FAP\u00a0official who received the complaint, took no action, according to Army and court records.\nAn Army investigation later found Borja was \u201cnegligent in her duty to report suspected child abuse.\u201d The report cited \u201ca series of missed opportunities\u201d by authorities that could have prevented Talia\u2019s death.\nBorja resigned before the Army finished its disciplinary proceedings, officials said. In a brief phone interview, she said \u201cthe truth is I had nothing to do with that family.\u201d\nSpc. Williams was sentenced last year to life in federal prison for murder. His wife was sentenced to 20 years in prison after she testified against him.\nBut the case had an unusual postscript.\nIn 2008, Tarshia Williams, Talia\u2019s biological mother, sued the Army in federal court for negligence and wrongful death.\nJustice Department\u00a0lawyers argued that the Army could not be held liable for child abuse on military bases.\u00a0Protecting battered children, even on a base, was the job of Hawaii\u2019s Department of Human Services, not the Army, the government lawyers argued.\n\u201cThe Army has no legal framework for taking custody or otherwise acting formally to protect abused children, and therefore explicitly relies on\u201d state child protection agencies, the Justice Department claimed\u00a0in court documents.\nU.S. District Judge Alan C. Kay rejected the government\u2019s\u00a0motion to dismiss the case. The Justice Department settled with Talia\u2019s mother last year for $2 million.\nPolice responding to gunfire at a mobile home near Ft. Bragg one night found a soldier in full military gear, waving an AR-15 assault rifle and trying to get a child to snort a powerful prescription tranquilizer.\nSpc. Devin Havis and Samantha Bryant, his girlfriend, were abusing Klonopin and urging Bryant\u2019s 13-year-old daughter, Brittany, \u201cto engage in this drug use,\u201d according to a police report from the October 2015 incident.\nOfficers found the girl hiding in a closet with her 17-month-old half-brother Rylan.\nPolice charged Havis and Bryant with child abuse and \u201cfighting with firearms in the presence of minors.\u201d Bryant was committed to a local hospital\u2019s mental health ward for three days. The two children were placed in foster care at Ft. Bragg for their protection while military and civilian agencies investigated.But America\u2019s largest Army base \u2014 \u00a0a heavily guarded enclave that is home to 238,000 soldiers and civilians \u2014 proved no refuge.\u00a0\nOn April 14, four months after a state judge returned the two children to their mother, Rylan drowned in a pond near the mobile home.\nBryant was charged with involuntary manslaughter and child neglect and is in Moore County jail awaiting trial. Havis \u2014 who was not prosecuted on the earlier charges \u2014 was kicked out of the Army with a general discharge, one level below an honorable discharge.\u00a0\nRylan\u2019s death was one of at least five child fatalities or severe abuse and neglect cases at Ft. Bragg over the last 14 months.\nFt. Bragg officials declined to discuss the five cases, citing legal proceedings. But it\u2019s clear, from court records and interviews, that the system failed toddler Rylan Ott.\nHis father, Spc. Corey Ott, had married Samantha Bryant in 2014, and their relationship was volatile.\n\u201cShe liked to drink and party, and so did I, but when she drank, she got crazy,\u201d Ott said in an interview.\nThey lived in a cramped apartment on Ft. Bragg after Rylan was born, and then moved to an on-base house. Bryant\u2019s daughter, Brittany, came from Texas to live with them.\nBut after Ott began an eight-month deployment to the United Arab Emirates, Bryant moved to a mobile home off base with the two children. She also began seeing Havis, a military policeman.\n\u201cShe got my boy and my truck and just took off,\u201d Ott said. \u201cI felt like I was losing my family.\u201d\u00a0\nWhen Ott returned in September 2015, Bryant refused to rejoin him. She showed him a new AR-15 rifle with a high-powered sight, saying she had bought it herself. Ott didn\u2019t believe her, convinced that the weapon was proof she was seeing another soldier.\nBryant and Havis were arrested three weeks later for firing the AR-15 and sniffing Klonopin, an anti-seizure medication that is often abused, around her children.\u00a0\nSgt. Shane Mills and his wife, Amanda, whose daughters attended school with Brittany, agreed to act as foster parents while the Moore County child protective services agency investigated the case.\nRylan was \u201creal quiet\u201d and very thin when he arrived on Nov. 2, Amanda Mills recalled. After a month, he had become a \u00a0\u201csweet, smiling, laughing\u201d little boy, she said.\nThe toddler\u2019s mother was allowed to visit three times a week. But Bryant was so disruptive that the Mills asked authorities to halt the visits. After that, social workers drove the children to offices 25 miles away so Bryant could see them in supervised visits.\u00a0\nOn Dec. 17, 2015, after a daylong hearing, North Carolina District Judge Scott C. Etheridge ordered Rylan and Brittany returned to their mother. He cited a state law that calls for courts to seek family reunification whenever possible.\nThe Moore County social services department backed the ruling, noting that Bryant had finished a class on parenting.\nThe judge rebuffed pleas from the foster parents and from Pamela Reed, a court-appointed social worker who had urged him not to send the children back to their mother.\nThe judge also rejected Ott\u2019s request for custody, ruling he hadn\u2019t spent enough time with the boy \u2014 mostly due to his long overseas deployment \u2014 to be a good father.\n\u201cI left that courthouse in tears,\u201d recalled Ott, who quit the Army the next day.\nWhen child protection workers arrived to take Rylan and Brittany to their mother, Shane and Amanda Mills also broke into tears, fearing for the children\u2019s safety, they said.\n\u201cWhen this thing goes south \u2014 not if, but when \u2014 you call me, day or night,\u201d Shane Mills said he told the social workers. \u201cI will be there to pick up these children.\u201d\nThe Mills never got a call. They learned Rylan had drowned when Brittany posted a photo on Instagram last April of the smiling toddler in her lap.\n\u201cRIP. This little boy is my little brother and he was really a blessing,\u201d she wrote. \u201cI love you Rylan Ott \u2026 but [you\u2019re] with God now.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/president-signs-gabbard-s-talias-law-strengthen-protections-military-children", "President Signs Gabbards Talia's Law to Strengthen Protections for Military Children", "2016-12-27", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HI\u2014Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) released the statement below after \u201cTalia\u2019s Law\u201d was signed into law by President Obama:\n\u201cMore than a decade after Talia Williams\u2019s tragic death, there have been more than 29,000 cases of child abuse and neglect in military homes. Until now, the same gaps in the military\u2019s reporting requirements that failed to protect Talia and so many other military children remained.\u00a0Enactment of Talia\u2019s Law closes these gaps by requiring the same protections that exist for any other child to also protect children in military families. While this cannot right the wrongs that failed to protect Talia, Talia\u2019s Law honors her life by helping to get military children, and their families, the support and care they need and deserve,\u201d said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard.\u00a0\n\u201cMy daughter went through so much pain and agony and I am so proud that Talia\u2019s Law will prevent other kids from experiencing what my daughter went through. I am thankful and honored that my daughter\u2019s legacy will live on through Talia\u2019s Law, and I am grateful for everyone who played a part in getting her law passed, moving one step forward to saving a child\u2019s life,\u201d said Tarshia W. Hampton, Talia Williams\u2019 mother who wrote the original concept of Talia\u2019s Law. Tarshia brought the concept to Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to introduce in Congress.\n\u201cProtection and early intervention can prevent situations like what Talia faced from happening again. By passing Talia\u2019s Law, Child and Family Service (CFS) anticipates that all military personnel will become more empowered to follow all of the child welfare reporting mandates without fear of retaliation from their command, that child abuse and neglect will no longer be underreported, and that reporting will no longer be discouraged by the military\u2019s chain of command,\u201d said Amanda Pump, Program Administrator for Child & Family Service.\n\u201cTalia\u2019s Law will create a further safety net to prevent a child from going through what happened to Talia. An issue of child abuse or neglect that goes unreported or underreported is a failure to allow for a child\u2019s right to safety and a healthy childhood. Abuse of any household member is simply unacceptable. Talia\u2019s Law will enforce early identification and response which is critical to the protection from further abuse. Thank you Congresswoman Gabbard for standing up for our children to assure that their safety and their basic needs are preserved,\u201d said Ryan Kusumoto, President/CEO of Parents And Children Together.\nBackground: In 2005, five year old Talia Williams was beaten to death by her father, who was a soldier stationed at Schofield Barracks in Hawai\u02bbi. Leading up to her death, Talia suffered months of abuse from her father and stepmother. Despite multiple reports made to military officers, the case stayed within the military\u2019s chain of command, and nothing was done to take Talia out of harm\u2019s way.\nOutside of the military, mandated reporters (generally, professionals that come into contact with children such as physicians, psychologists, social workers, teachers, and others) are required to report any suspected cases of child abuse and neglect directly to State Child Protective Services. However, the military\u2019s reporting requirements do not currently require the same direct reporting requirements to state authorities.\nTo close the communications gap that may exist between mandated reporters and those who may report to the State on their behalf, Talia\u2019s Law:\n Requires servicemembers and their dependents to immediately report known or suspected instances of child abuse and neglect to their installation Family Advocacy Program Office. These offices are tasked with the prevention, education, intervention, and investigation of spouse and child abuse.\n\tAdditionally requires servicemembers and their dependents to report any known or suspected child abuse directly to State Child Protective Services, or another appropriate state agency.\n In February, the House of Representatives unanimously passed Talia\u2019s Law (H.R. 3894), introduced by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard and Senator Mazie Hirono worked to include Talia\u2019s Law in this year\u2019s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was signed into law by President Obama on December 23.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-presidents-visit-to-pearl-harbor-strengthens-us-japan-alliance", "Hirono: President’s Visit to Pearl Harbor Strengthens U.S.-Japan Alliance", "2016-12-27", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono: President\u2019s Visit to Pearl Harbor Strengthens U.S.-Japan Alliance\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 27, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono attended joint remarks by President Barack Obama and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe marking their visit to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor.\r\n\u201cPresident Obama and Prime Minister Abe\u2019s visit to Pearl Harbor is a testament to reconciliation and a continued, strong alliance between our two countries,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cIn the years ahead, the U.S-Japan alliance will remain a cornerstone in our unwavering commitment to promote stability and stronger economic partnerships with our Indo-Asia-Pacific partners.\r\nSenator Hirono was accompanied by World War II veteran Dr. Yoshinobu Oshiro of Pearl City. Dr. Oshiro served in the Military Intelligence Service and later was the Senator\u2019s sixth grade teacher.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/in-the-news/op-ed-gabbard-right-oppose-extremists-fighting-syrian-governm", "Op-Ed: Gabbard right to oppose extremists fighting Syrian government", "2016-12-26", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By Salah Zakkour\nAs Syrians, we stand with Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard to end the war in Syria, and support her \u201cStop Arming Terrorists\u201d bill (HR 6504) as the most effective way to bring an end to five years of suffering and bloodshed in our country.\nSome claim that efforts to stop arming the \u201crebel\u201d forces fighting to overthrow the Syrian government undermines the Syrian people\u2019s struggle for democracy and reform. They incorrectly believe that the rebels fighting against the Syrian government today are the same people who were peacefully protesting in 2011. In reality, the \u201crebels\u201d in Syria today have been overtaken by Salafist extremists who are aligned with the likes of al-Qaeda, ISIS and other terrorist groups.\nIt\u2019s easy to oversimplify the situation in Syria because of misinformation, propaganda, and a lack of understanding of Syria\u2019s history and culture. While there were peaceful demands for reforms within Syria\u2019s political system in 2011 \u2014 more freedom for political parties and the press, and removal of the state of emergency that had limited democratic freedoms \u2014 this peaceful reform movement was quickly hijacked by armed extremists, who came under the control of Muslim Brotherhood, al-Qaeda and other Salafist groups.\nThe nonviolent opposition resisted all forms of external intervention and violence and called for \u201ca democratic national regime,\u201d through \u201cpeaceful\u201d and \u201cgradual\u201d change. But it was the violence of those sectarian extremists that forced the nonviolent protestors off the streets.\nThis is the reality of the Syria conflict: On the one hand we have extremists, supported by foreign fighters and terrorists from over 100 countries trying to overthrow the elected government of Syria, and on the other hand, we have the Syrian government and army who are defending Syria, with many innocent civilians caught in between. If Syrian President Bashar Assad is removed from power, the nonviolent opposition, religious minorities, and others will be wiped out as Syria will be taken over by the strongest fighting force on the ground \u2014 extremists led by groups like al-Qaeda.\nImagine what would happen to the people of Syria if these violent extremists, who have been carrying out some of the most brutal and disgusting acts against innocent civilians, took over our country. We only have to look at the chaos, devastation and terror in Libya or Iraq to see what will happen to Syria if they are successful.\nThese terrorist and extremist organizations who make up the \u201crebel forces\u201d would not have lasted long without support from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey and others. That is why Gabbard\u2019s \u201cStop Arming Terrorists\u201d bill is so important to our struggle in Syria. This bill neither supports Assad nor does it ignore the democratic rights of the Syria people. It simply prohibits U.S. government direct and indirect support for terrorist groups like Jabhat Fateh al-Sham or Ahrar al-Sham, and aims to put an end to a war that has led to the death of hundreds of thousands of Syrian people, resulted in the displacement of millions, and destroyed our country\u2019s infrastructure. It will give the people of Syria the peace we need to decide for ourselves the future of Syria.\nAs Syrians and Syrian-Americans, we wholeheartedly support Congresswoman Gabbard\u2019s courageous work. Furthermore, we do not object to robust screening of immigrants from regions beset by terrorism. Far from treating us as a \u201cthreat,\u201d Gabbard has shown utmost concern and respect for our community, the Syrian people and for all new Americans, which is why so many Syrians at home and in the U.S. support her tireless efforts to bring peace to Syria.\n\u00a0\nSalah Zakkour is a Sunni Muslim Syrian-American from Aleppo who now works in Ohio.\u00a0This was co-signed by fellow Syrians and Syrian-Americans: Rami Muamar \u2022 Micheile Muamar \u2022 Immanuel Kaplo \u2022 Hannah Youssef \u2022 Nabil Kaplo \u2022 Bairt Alkass \u2022 Malk Kouki \u2022 Ghazoah Hanna \u2022 Zane Alabdine Zakkour \u2022 Anne Zakkour \u2022 Fahed Zakkour \u2022 Nahla Zakkour \u2022 Saleh Zakkour \u2022 Khaled Baram \u2022 Afif Ghalwanji \u2022 Nadeem Habbal \u2022 Simon Khoury \u2022 Shawqia Adboudan \u2022 Geneivra Scott \u2022 Mamoun Alabbassi \u2022 Amen Tomeh \u2022 Rana Kouki \u2022 Mario Tomeh \u2022 Georgio Tomeh \u2022 Emanuel Wasouf \u2022 Tigram Hanonick \u2022 Lena Obied \u2022 Jamil Ibrahim \u2022 Talal Bitar \u2022 Mike Matook \u2022 Basal Rahal \u2022 Silva Barsoum", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://hanabusa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/department-defense-announces-30m-modified-contract-award-f-22", "DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE ANNOUNCES $30m MODIFIED CONTRACT AWARD FOR F-22 MAINTENANCE", "2016-12-22", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Colleen Hanabusa", "H001050", "hanabusa.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 On Thursday, December 22, 2016, the Department of Defense announced that Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co. has been awarded a $30,602,218 modification to a previously awarded contract for F-22 sustainment. Lockheed Martin will use the funding to support the F-22 Reliability and Maintainability Maturation Program. Honolulu\u2019s Hickam Air Force Base was named as one of ten work sites around the nation, with work expected to be complete by the end of 2020. \n\u00a0\nCongresswoman Hanabusa: I am very pleased by the announcement of significant additional funding for F-22 sustainment at Hickam Air Force Base. Our F-22 Raptors are a key component of the 21st century Air Force and are instrumental to protecting the skies over the Pacific. This additional support will improve our military readiness and make sure our airmen have the resources they need to carry out the crucial work of defending our state and our nation.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/hawaii-to-receive-federal-funds-to-help-homeless-veterans", "Hawaii to Receive Federal Funds to Help Homeless Veterans", "2016-12-22", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hawaii to Receive Federal Funds to Help Homeless Veterans \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t Funding Will Support 20 Homeless Veterans and Their Families \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 22, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tHONOLULU \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that the U.S. Departments of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) awarded $189,098 to the Hawai\u2018i Public Housing Authority to provide affordable housing for an additional 20 homeless veterans and their families in Hawai\u2018i.\r\n\u201cWe have a fundamental moral obligation to help house those who have served our country in uniform,\u201d said Senator Schatz. \u201cThis funding will help struggling veterans secure reliable housing and give them access to vital clinical and counseling services. While we still have a long way to go toward solving the crisis of veteran homelessness, these grants will help us get closer to reaching that goal.\u201dAs a member of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Schatz has continuously supported funding for the Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program, homeless assistance grants, and other affordable housing programs.This funding will support up to 20 homeless and vulnerable veterans and their families gain access to affordable rental housing units through the private market.The HUD-VASH funding announced today is in addition to a $1.25 million allotment received by the state in May, and a $330,960 allotment received in November. The combined $1.77 million in HUD-VASH funding is supporting more than 160 housing vouchers to help homeless veterans offset the cost of rental housing as well as provide them with counseling services.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-ilwu-petition-to-us-department-of-labor", "Schatz Statement on ILWU Petition to U.S. Department of Labor", "2016-12-22", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Schatz Statement on ILWU Petition to U.S. Department of Labor \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 22, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tHONOLULU \u2013 U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i) issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) approving the International Longshore and Warehouse Union\u2019s (ILWU) petition requesting adjustment assistance for bulk sugar workers as a result of the closing of HC&S:\r\n\u201cTruckers that hauled bulk sugar were directly and severely impacted by the closing of HC&S, and I\u2019m very glad the Department of Labor approved the ILWU\u2019s petition for assistance. Federal funding from the USDOL will help displaced workers make ends meet and provide opportunities to gain new skills and find new jobs. Losing a job can have a devastating impact on families and this funding will be able to provide some relief.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-welcomes-first-hawaiian-airlines-flight-from-haneda-to-kona", "Hirono welcomes first Hawaiian Airlines flight from Haneda to Kona", "2016-12-21", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono welcomes first Hawaiian Airlines flight from Haneda to Kona\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 21, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono welcomed visitors from Hawaiian Airlines\u2019 inaugural flight on its new direct route from Haneda Aiport in Tokyo to Kona International Airport.\r\n\u201cToday\u2019s flight is the culmination of years of effort to reestablish international flights outside of North America to Kona, which is important for the Hawaii Island economy\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cThe visitors we welcomed today will only be the first to experience our unique culture and everything that makes Hawaii a special place.\u201d\r\nSenator Hirono wrote to Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx to urge him to approve Hawaiian Airlines\u2019 application for the direct route. The U.S. Department of Transportation approved Hawaiian Airlines\u2019 application on May 13, 2016.\r\nSenator Hirono also toured the new Federal Inspection Services (FIS) facility at Kona International Airport, which will process international visitors who fly directly to and from Kona. After the FIS facility closed in 2010, Senator Hirono worked with federal, state, and County officials, and community and business leaders to reestablish the facility.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/hawaii-to-receive-more-than-11-million-to-help-the-homeless", "Hawaii to Receive More Than $11 Million to Help the Homeless", "2016-12-20", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hawaii to Receive More Than $11 Million to Help the Homeless \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 20, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tHONOLULU \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that Hawai\u2018i will receive 45 Continuum of Care (CoC) grants for 10 state, local and non-profit agencies totaling $11,519,682 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for fiscal year 2016.\r\n\u201cHomelessness is an urgent problem, and these funds will help homeless individuals and families get back on their feet and find a place to live,\u201d said Senator Schatz. \u201cAs we work to address homelessness in Hawai\u2018i, I will continue to work with officials at HUD and elsewhere to make sure we receive our fair share of federal funding.\u201d \u00a0\r\nThe state received an increase of nearly $150,000 in CoC grants in FY2016 compared to last year.\u00a0 The CoC Program promotes planning and strategic use of federal resources to address homelessness in communities across the country. CoC grants support non-profits, as well as state and local governments in rehousing homeless individuals and families, and support self-sufficiency among homeless individuals and families.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-to-serve-on-judiciary-committee-continue-fighting-for-hawaii-priorities-in-united-states-senate", "Hirono to serve on Judiciary Committee, continue fighting for Hawaii priorities in United States Senate", "2016-12-19", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono to serve on Judiciary Committee, continue fighting for Hawaii priorities in United States Senate\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tWill also sit on Committees on Armed Services, Energy and Natural Resources, Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and Veterans\u2019 Affairs\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 19, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono announced that she will return to serve on the Senate Judiciary Committee \u2013 which will be instrumental in defending civil rights, vetting a Trump administration\u2019s Supreme Court nominees, and standing up for immigrant communities \u2013 in the 115th Congress.\r\nSenator Hirono will also continue to serve on the Senate Committees on Armed Services, Energy and Natural Resources, Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and Veterans\u2019 Affairs.\r\n\u201cThe Senate Judiciary Committee will be on the front lines of fighting to protect Hawaii from the incoming Trump administration\u2019s proposals that erode civil rights and target immigrants,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cI look forward to continuing to advance Hawaii priorities on committees that are vital to our national security, growing Hawaii\u2019s economy, and protecting the environment.\u201d\r\nSenator Hirono laid out the following priorities for her committees in the upcoming Congress:\r\nSenate Armed Services Committee: Senator Hirono will continue to advocate for Hawaii\u2019s interests in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, setting strong parameters about the use of our military, and advocating for military families.\r\nAs a member of the Armed Services Committee this year, Senator Hirono successfully included several Hawaii-focused provisions in this year\u2019s defense authorization.\r\nSenate Energy and Natural Resources Committee: Senator Hirono will fight against policies that move our nation away from sustainable, clean energy sources, support research and development into the next generation of clean energy systems and sources, and ensure that Hawaii\u2019s entrepreneurs and workforce can take advantage of advances in clean energy.\r\nAs a Committee member this year, Senator Hirono held a field hearing on strengthening Hawaii\u2019s water security.\r\nSenate Judiciary Committee: As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Senator Hirono will defend voting and civil rights, vet the President-elect\u2019s pick for the Supreme Court, and protect immigrant communities and DREAMers.\r\nSenator Hirono previously served on the Judiciary Committee in the 113th Congress, where she was a key author of the Senate\u2019s 2013 comprehensive immigration reform bill.\r\nSenate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee: Senator Hirono will continue to promote science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education and entrepreneurship opportunities for women and minorities, and make sure Hawaii businesses have a fair shot at federal opportunities.\r\nAs a member of the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, Senator Hirono held a field hearing on Maui to examine how to boost women and minority participation in STEM careers.\r\nSenate Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee: Senator Hirono will continue her work expanding access to earned benefits, improving care for all veterans, and ensuring a smooth transition from active duty for veterans and their families.\r\nAs a member of the Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee, Senator Hirono passed legislation that equalizes paid leave for veterans who work for the Transportation Security Administration and Federal Aviation Administration, and improves access to health care and benefits for veterans.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-appointed-to-banking-housing-and-urban-affairs-committee", "Schatz Appointed To Banking, Housing, And Urban Affairs Committee", "2016-12-19", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Schatz Appointed To Banking, Housing, And Urban Affairs Committee \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t Senator to Continue on Appropriations, Commerce, Indian Affairs, and Ethics Committees \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 19, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tHONOLULU \u2013 Today, the Senate Democratic Steering Committee ratified committee assignments for the 115th Congress and announced that U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i) will join the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Schatz will also continue to serve on the Senate committees on Appropriations; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Indian Affairs; and Ethics.\r\n\r\n\u201cThis post is an important one because the Committee oversees federal housing and transit agencies, putting me in a better position to leverage federal resources to support Hawai\u2018i\u2019s unique housing needs and advocate for local transit strategies in Honolulu and across the state.\r\n\r\n\u201cCombining this new role with my position on the Appropriations Committee will allow me to help create domestic policies and annual spending plans for each of the critical federal housing, transportation, and finance programs.\r\n\r\n\u201cThis Committee also has broad jurisdiction over banks and the financial system and oversees international economic sanctions and export controls, which play an important role in U.S. foreign policy.\u00a0 As a member, I plan to focus on improving policies that protect consumers from predatory financial products and services, and will work to make sure we provide effective oversight over the banking industry and prevent another financial crisis.\r\n\r\n\u201cThis assignment is an honor, and I\u2019m looking forward to working with my colleagues on the Committee in the next Congress.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/in-the-news/garden-island-wwii-filipino-vet-receive-highest-civilian-award", "Garden Island: WWII Filipino vet to receive highest civilian award", "2016-12-16", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Originally published in the Garden Island:https://thegardenisland.com/news/local/military/wwii-filipino-vet-to-receive-highest-civilian-award/article_15de57c0-8c5c-5549-9e1a-386100087ae7.html\n \n\tWWII Filipino vet to receive highest civilian award \nThe islands last surviving Filipino World War II veteran will soon receive the nations highest civilian honor.\nThe Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act was signed into law by President Barack Obama Thursday, awarding Kauai resident and World War II veteran Sixto Tabay the medal.\nTabay is the last surviving Filipino veteran on Kauai  out of 13  who served on the 12th Infantry Division, a group of 10,473 Filipinos enlisted from the Philippines to fight for the United States.\nThough the war ended in 1945, Tabay is considered a World War II veteran because he is among the Filipino veterans recruited to serve.\nIm very thankful for my services in the United States Army, said Tabay in a previous TGI interview. The veteran served from 1946 to 1949 as a small arms repairman.\nHe is among the 18,000 Filipino World War II veterans alive today who will be with the countrys highest civilian award.\nThe Filipino veterans of World War II overcame many challenges in their fight for compensation, family reunification, and verification of wartime service. By signing our bill into law, President Obama recognized these veterans courage and perseverance, both during the war and in the decades of battles for benefits that followed, said Sen. Mazie Hirono, who along with Rep. Tulsi Gabbard introduced the bill.\nAfter enduring 75 years of injustice and humiliation, Filipino World War II veterans regained their honor and dignity when Congress passed the Congressional Gold Medal Award  a historic bill which President Obama signed into law, said Maj. General Antonio Taguba (Retired), chairman of the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project.\nHistory has been made as President Obama signs into law our bill to honor the more than 200,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers that served our country during World War II, Gabbard said in a release. These loyal and courageous soldiers suffered, fought, with many giving up their lives alongside their American counterparts throughout the war. This recognition is a testament to each and every one of our Filipino World War II veterans who earned and deserve their place amongst our greatest generation.\nThe Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, awards the medal collectively to the over 260,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers who responded to President Roosevelts call-to-duty and fought under the American flag during World War II.\nHirono and Gabbard will work together with the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project to organize Congressional Gold Medal ceremonies.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-announces-11-million-for-hawaii-to-fight-zika-virus", "Hirono announces $1.1 million for Hawaii to fight Zika virus", "2016-12-16", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono announces $1.1 million for Hawaii to fight Zika virus\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 16, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono announced that the Hawaii Department of Health will receive $1.1 million in Centers for Disease Control funding to fight the Zika virus. The funding will bolster Hawaii\u2019s lab testing capacity as well as a variety of education, and vector control measures.\r\n\u201cHawaii needs to be vigilant against the continued threat posed by Zika, and this funding increases the Hawaii Department of Health\u2019s capacity to prevent and respond to a potential Zika outbreak,\u201d said Senator Hirono.\r\n\u201cWe are grateful for the continued support provided to Hawaii by Congress and CDC to improve the Hawaii Department of Health\u2019s capacity to protect our local communities by expanding Zika-related preparedness and response activities,\u201d said Keith Kawaoka, Deputy Director of Environmental Health. \u201cWith the high volume of travel and warm weather we experience in Hawaii year-round, growing our Vector Control detection and response capabilities is crucial to preventing potential mosquito-borne disease outbreaks statewide.\u201d\r\n\u201cThese funds will allow us to support and enhance key Zika-related department programs to safeguard our state\u2019s public health in the long run. In addition to building a greater capacity for disease investigation and laboratory testing, we\u2019ll also be better able to support the mothers and babies who have been impacted by the effects of Zika,\u201d said Dr. Sarah Park, Hawaii State Epidemiologist.\r\nThe grants were funded through emergency supplemental funding that Senator Hirono supported, and Congress approved, in September. Earlier this year, Senator Hirono met with Governor David Ige, Hawaii Director of Health Dr. Virginia Pressler, and top Hawaii public health experts to raise awareness of the threat Zika poses to Hawaii families.\r\nHawaii will receive federal Centers for Disease Control funding from three programs:\r\n \r\nZika Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity Activities ($919,149) \u2013 This program supports vector control programs, strengthens laboratory capacity, and bolsters participation in the U.S. Zika Pregnancy Registry to monitor pregnant women with Zika and their infants.\r\nPublic Health Preparedness and Response Activities ($58,603) \u2013 This funding is awarded to communities at high risk for Zika outbreaks, and can be used to rapidly respond to a Zika outbreak, and to strengthen coordination between government and non-government first responders.\r\nZika Birth Defects Surveillance Activities ($200,000) \u2013 This program establishes systems to rapidly detect microcephaly\u2013a serious birth defect directly linked to Zika\u2013 and other adverse outcomes potentially related to Zika virus infection during pregnancy.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/in-the-news/hawaii-news-now-president-obama-signs-law-recognize-wwii-filipino-vets", "Hawaii News Now: President Obama signs law to recognize WWII Filipino vets", "2016-12-15", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Originally published by Hawaii News Now:https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/story/34068451/wwii-filipino-vets-to-be-recognized-with-congressional-gold-medal-under-new-law\n \n\tPresident Obama signs law to recognize WWII Filipino vets \nThe president has signed into law a measure that will award Filipino veterans of World War II the Congressional Gold Medal.\nThe measure was sponsored by U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), and U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii).\nHawaii's congressional leaders have been pushing for the measure to recognize the approximately 18,000 Filipino WWII veterans still alive in the U.S., as most of them are in their 90s.\nThe Filipino veterans of World War II overcame many challenges in their fight for compensation, family reunification, and verification of wartime service,\" Hirono said, in a news release. \"By signing our bill into law, President Obama recognized these veterans courage and perseverance, both during the war and in the decades of battles for benefits that followed.\"\nGabbard said, \"These loyal and courageous soldiers suffered, fought, with many giving up their lives alongside their American counterparts throughout the war. It has been an honor to personally get to know some of these veterans and their families, and to hear them humbly tell their courageous stories of service.\"\nHirono and Gabbard said they'd work with the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project to organize Congressional Gold Medal ceremonies.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-gabbard-bill-award-filipino-veterans-congressional-gold-medal-signed-law", "Hirono-Gabbard Bill to Award Filipino Veterans Congressional Gold Medal Signed into Law", "2016-12-15", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 President Barack Obama signed into law today the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act introduced by Senator Mazie K. Hirono and Representative Tulsi Gabbard.\n\u201cThe Filipino veterans of World War II overcame many challenges in their fight for compensation, family reunification, and verification of wartime service. By signing our bill into law, President Obama recognized these veterans\u2019 courage and perseverance, both during the war and in the decades of battles for benefits that followed,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cThis day is only possible thanks to the commitment of veterans, families, and advocates in Hawaii and across the country who worked tirelessly to see this effort through Congress. While this recognition is long overdue, the Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting tribute to the sacrifice that these veterans made for our country.\u201d\n\u201cToday, history has been made as President Obama signs into law our bill to honor the more than 200,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers that served our country during World War II,\u201d said Representative Tulsi Gabbard. \u201cThese loyal and courageous soldiers suffered, fought, with many giving up their lives alongside their American counterparts throughout the war.\u00a0 It has been an honor to personally get to know some of these veterans and their families, and to hear them humbly tell their courageous stories of service. Though less than 18,000 of our Filipino WWII veterans are still alive today, this recognition is a testament to each and every one of our Filipino WWII veterans who earned and deserve their place amongst our greatest generation. To our Filipino veterans, their families, and all who worked so hard to make today a reality, maraming salamat sa inyong lahat.\u201d\n\u201cAfter enduring 75 years of injustice and humiliation, our Filipino World War II veterans regained their honor and dignity when Congress passed the Congressional Gold Medal Award - a historic bill which President Obama signed into law today. With deep gratitude, our nation has now come to fully recognize the service and sacrifice of our brave heroes who fought valiantly under the American flag,\u201d said Major General Antonio Taguba (Retired), Chairman of the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project.\n\u201cToday we celebrate the final step in the long-awaited process to award Filipino World War II veterans with the Congressional Gold Medal. We thank President Obama for signing this legislation to award our heroes with the highest civilian honor and reiterate our gratitude to our champions in Congress--especially Senator Hirono and Representative Gabbard--and advocates such as the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project and NaFFAA, for making sure the legacy of Filipino World War II veterans is never forgotten,\u201d said National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA) National Director Christopher Kang.\nS. 1555, the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, awards the medal collectively to the over 260,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers who responded to President Roosevelt\u2019s call-to-duty and fought under the American flag during World War II.\nSenator Hirono and Representative Gabbard will work together with the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project to organize Congressional Gold Medal ceremonies.\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-gabbard-bill-to-award-filipino-veterans-congressional-gold-medal-signed-into-law", "Hirono-Gabbard Bill to Award Filipino Veterans Congressional Gold Medal Signed into Law", "2016-12-15", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono-Gabbard Bill to Award Filipino Veterans Congressional Gold Medal Signed into Law\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 15, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tPresident Barack Obama signed into law today the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act introduced by Senator Mazie K. Hirono and Representative Tulsi Gabbard.\r\n\u201cThe Filipino veterans of World War II overcame many challenges in their fight for compensation, family reunification, and verification of wartime service. By signing our bill into law, President Obama recognized these veterans\u2019 courage and perseverance, both during the war and in the decades of battles for benefits that followed,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cThis day is only possible thanks to the commitment of veterans, families, and advocates in Hawaii and across the country who worked tirelessly to see this effort through Congress. While this recognition is long overdue, the Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting tribute to the sacrifice that these veterans made for our country.\u201d\r\n\u201cToday, history has been made as President Obama signs into law our bill to honor the more than 200,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers that served our country during World War II,\u201d said Representative Gabbard. \u201cThese loyal and courageous soldiers suffered, fought, with many giving up their lives alongside their American counterparts throughout the war.\u00a0 It has been an honor to personally get to know some of these veterans and their families, and to hear them humbly tell their courageous stories of service. Though less than 18,000 of our Filipino WWII veterans are still alive today, this recognition is a testament to each and every one of our Filipino WWII veterans who earned and deserve their place amongst our greatest generation. To our Filipino veterans, their families, and all who worked so hard to make today a reality, maraming salamat sa inyong lahat.\u201d\r\n\u201cAfter enduring 75 years of injustice and humiliation, our Filipino World War II veterans regained their honor and dignity when Congress passed the Congressional Gold Medal Award - a historic bill which President Obama signed into law today. With deep gratitude, our nation has now come to fully recognize the service and sacrifice of our brave heroes who fought valiantly under the American flag,\u201d said Major General Antonio Taguba (Retired), Chairman of the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project.\r\n\u201cToday we celebrate the final step in the long-awaited process to award Filipino World War II veterans with the Congressional Gold Medal. We thank President Obama for signing this legislation to award our heroes with the highest civilian honor and reiterate our gratitude to our champions in Congress--especially Senator Hirono and Representative Gabbard--and advocates such as the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project and NaFFAA, for making sure the legacy of Filipino World War II veterans is never forgotten,\u201d said National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA) National Director Christopher Kang.\r\nS. 1555, the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, awards the medal collectively to the over 260,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers who responded to President Roosevelt\u2019s call-to-duty and fought under the American flag during World War II.\r\nSenator Hirono and Representative Gabbard will work together with the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project to organize Congressional Gold Medal ceremonies.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/president-obama-signs-schatz-hatch-tele-training-bill-into-law", "President Obama Signs Schatz-Hatch Tele-Training Bill Into Law", "2016-12-15", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "President Obama Signs Schatz-Hatch Tele-Training Bill Into Law \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t Bipartisan Law Will Improve Health Care in Rural Areas \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 15, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tHONOLULU - President Barack Obama signed into law the Expanding Capacity for Health Outcomes (ECHO) Act, a bipartisan bill introduced by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i) and Orrin Hatch (R-Utah). This law will increase access to high-quality health care in hard-to-reach regions.\r\n\u201cTechnology has the potential to transform the way we train doctors and deliver health care,\u201d said Senator Schatz. \u201cThis law will help connect primary care providers in underserved areas with specialists at academic hubs, making it easier for medical professionals to access the continuing education they need to provide high-quality health care to more people.\u201d\r\nAlthough nearly one-fourth of the population lives in rural areas, only about 10 percent of physicians practice in these hard-to-reach regions. People living in rural areas have higher rates of some chronic diseases and many face high transportation costs when they need to visit a doctor.\r\nThe ECHO model is an innovative continuing medical education program that uses interactive videoconferencing to link specialist teams with primary care providers in rural and underserved areas. Together, they participate in weekly tele-clinics that combine teaching with mentoring and case-based learning. The ECHO Act aims to better integrate this model into health systems across the country, improving training for doctors and health care quality for patients.\u00a0\r\nTo learn more about the ECHO Act, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hawaii-island-receives-federal-funding-for-buses-that-reduce-toxic-pollutants", "Hawaii Island receives federal funding for buses that reduce toxic pollutants", "2016-12-14", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hawaii Island receives federal funding for buses that reduce toxic pollutants\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 14, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono announced that the Hawaii Department of Health will receive nearly $200,000 in federal funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to replace two diesel-powered buses on Hawaii Island with lower-emission buses. The new buses, part of Hawaii County\u2019s Hele-On bus service, will reduce toxic pollutants released by diesel exhaust.\r\n\u201cHawaii County\u2019s Hele-On Bus provides an important means of transportation for residents and visitors across the island and these new buses with up-to-date emissions technology will result in cleaner air for Hawaii County and a positive impact on our climate,\u201d said Senator Hirono, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.\r\n\u201cHawaii County is grateful and appreciative of being a recipient of this grant from the EPA\u2019s Diesel Emission Reduction Program,\u201d said Tiffany Kai, County of Hawaii Mass Transit Administrator. \u201cThe replacement buses will allow Hawaii County\u2019s Mass Transit Agency to improve efficiency while reducing emission and increasing the lifetime of our buses. We are fortunate to be a part of this project as it will allow our county to lead by example in our ongoing effort to sustain a clean and healthy environment. We would also like to thank Senator Hirono for her tireless work in securing this grant on behalf of our island community.\u201d\r\nThe two buses will be purchased with a combination Hawaii County funding and funding from the EPA\u2019s Diesel Emission Reduction Program. The project will reduce emissions of fine particulate matter by 1.1 tons, smog-forming nitrogen oxides by 16.6 tons and carbon monoxide by 4.7 tons over the lifetime of the buses.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/an-open-letter-to-the-federal-employees-of-america", "An Open Letter to the Federal Employees of America", "2016-12-14", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Wednesday, December 14, 2016\r\n            \r\n                 An Open Letter to the Federal Employees of America \r\n\r\n                \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n    By:\u00a0\r\n    Sen. Brian Schatz\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n        \r\n                Wednesday, December 14, 2016\r\n            \r\n           \r\n\r\n\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n            Dear Federal Employees of America:\r\nThe end of 2016 is rapidly approaching. As you prepare to take time off to go home for the holidays and spend time with your families, many of you may be concerned about what lies ahead. You may be struggling with professional decisions like whether you should retire early or leave the public sector. So there is something I want to say to all federal workers: Your contributions are essential to our nation, and I\u2019ve got your back.\r\nWe\u2019ve all been hearing statements by politicians in the halls of Congress, in the news, and even on Twitter threatening to gut the federal workforce, cut earned benefits, reduce paychecks, make it easier to fire people at will, and other destructive and misguided actions. To you, as federal employees, these statements must be particularly hurtful. But I want to assure all federal workers that you\u2019ve got allies in Congress and around the country ready to fight for you.\r\nEighty-five per cent of federal workers live and work outside of the D.C. area. You live and work in small towns, in urban centers, and around the country. You protect our borders, maintain our parks, and care for our veterans. The federal workforce represents the diversity of our country. You do crucial work for our government and for the American people.\r\nIn many places, the federal government is the main employer\u2014and those jobs are vital to the local economy. The next administration should understand the importance of federal workers. Our federal workforce must not be used for purposes of partisan rhetoric and political games.\r\nI want to let all federal workers know that we will continue to work in the Senate to fight efforts to undermine you and the work that you do. Our laws that protect workers have not changed and neither has our obligation to you. We will look for opportunities to improve the federal workplace and strengthen the federal workforce. So keep up the great work across America.\u00a0\r\nThank you for all that you do for our country. I wish you all a happy holiday season and the best in the new year.\r\nSincerely,\r\nBrian Schatz\r\nTo read this post on Medium, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-hawai-i-receive-31-million-fight-invasive-species", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard: Hawaii to Receive $3.1 Million to Fight Invasive Species", "2016-12-13", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HI\u2014Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) announced today that Hawai\u02bbi will receive $3.1 million to fight invasive species like the coconut rhinoceros beetle, coffee berry borer, Rapid Ohia Death, and fruit flies. The funding, allocated from the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) in accordance with\u00a0Section 10007 of the 2014 Farm Bill, is part of 513 projects supported nationwide that aim to prevent the introduction or spread of plant pests and diseases that threaten U.S. agriculture and the environment, as well as ensure the availability of a healthy supply of clean plant stock.\u00a0\n\u201cIn Hawai\u02bbi, invasive species like the coffee berry borer, fruit fly, and macadamia felted coccid have cost our farmers millions, and put hundreds of farms, thousands of local workers, and our agriculture industry at great risk,\u201d\u00a0said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. \u201cWe need to provide more support to our farmers who contribute so much to our community and our economy. \u00a0This funding\u00a0will provide Hawai\u02bbi with critical resources to combat these invasive pests.\u201d\n\"The University of Hawai\u02bbi is very pleased to hear that a new project has been funded through USDA-APHIS on the management of the coffee berry borer in Hawai\u02bbi and Puerto Rico,\u201d said Ray Carruthers, Specialist at the University of Hawai\u02bbi College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources. \u201cThe main thrust of this effect will be to coordinate control efforts with on-going Federal, State and local projects on CBB management, along with the additional development of new insect biological control technologies. We feel that developing, testing and the eventual use of insect parasitoids will be a key for long-term sustainable management of the CBB in both Hawai\u02bbi and Puerto Rico.\"\nBackground:\u00a0Rep. Tulsi Gabbard introduced the\u00a0Areawide Integrated Pest Management\u00a0(AIPM) Act (H.R.3893) and the\u00a0Macadamia Tree Health Initiative\u00a0(H.R.6249) in the 114th\u00a0Congress to fight invasive species in Hawai\u02bbi and across the United States, and to fund critical research for invasive species like the macadamia felted coccid. In August, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard conducted an\u00a0agriculture tour\u00a0on Hawai\u02bbi Island where she met with local agriculture professionals and researchers about invasive species in Hawai\u02bbi. \u00a0\nToday\u2019s announcement includes the following funding for projects in Hawai\u02bbi:\n $87,771 for emerging diseases, viral spillover, and the risk to agricultural pollinators (Academia)\n\t$265,811 for the USDA Compendium of Fruit Fly Host Information (CoFFHI) (Academia)\n\t$27,600 for the National Survey of Honey Bee Pests and Diseases in Hawai\u02bbi (State Government)\n\t$148,000 for the Palm Commodity Survey (Academia)\n\t$165,500 for Hawai\u02bbi Pre-Clearance X-ray Support (APHIS)\n\t$260,000 for Genomic approaches to fruit fly exclusion and pathway analysis (year 3) (Academia)\n\t$303,000 for Genomic approaches to fruit fly exclusion and pathway analysis (year 3) (Non-APHIS-Federal)\n\t$42,090 for Little Fire Ant Education for Nursery Supply Stores (Academia)\n\t$40,995 for Integrated and Sustainable Approach to Manage New Invasive Pests of Ficus Trees in Hawai\u02bbi's Urban Landscapes - Year 2 (Academia)\n\t$41,000 for Activators and Attractants for Giant African Snail (Academia)\n\t$120,000 for Response to Rapid Ohia Death, a disease threatening forests (State Government)\n\t$125,000 for Systems approach for the management of coffee berry borer in Hawai\u02bbi and Puerto Rico with emphasis on biological control (Academia)\n\t$100,000 for Systems approach for the management of coffee berry borer in Hawai\u02bbi and Puerto Rico with emphasis on biological control (State Government)\n\t$115,000 for Systems approach for the management of coffee berry borer in Hawai\u02bbi and Puerto Rico with emphasis on biological control (Non-APHIS-Federal)\n\t$975,000 for Response to Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle in Hawai\u02bbi (Academia)\n\t$250,000 for Response to Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle in Hawai\u02bbi (State Government)\n \u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-the-american-people-deserve-to-know-the-full-extent-of-russian-interference-in-2016-election", "Hirono: The American people deserve to know the full extent of Russian interference in 2016 election", "2016-12-13", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono: The American people deserve to know the full extent of Russian interference in 2016 election\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t2016 election Joins call for bipartisan, independent inquiry into Russian interference, leads call for President Obama to declassify relevant intelligence\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 13, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono \u2013 a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence \u2013 expressed her support for an independent, bipartisan, Congressional inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 election and raised six important questions this review should answer.\r\n\u201cThe Intelligence Community\u2019s assessment that Russia intended to interfere in the 2016 U.S. election is deeply disturbing,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cLast month I joined my colleagues on the Senate Intelligence Committee in writing a letter to urge President Obama to de-classify information about Russian interference. The American people deserve to know as much as possible about Russia\u2019s attacks on our democratic institutions. This is something he can and should do quickly.\r\n\u201cPresident Obama recently asked the Intelligence Community to provide an assessment before he leaves office. This is an important and positive step.\r\n\u201cI also support an independent, bipartisan, Congressional inquiry into this matter. This review should focus on answering, among others, the following core questions:\r\n \r\nTo what extent were computer systems at U.S. national party committees compromised?\r\nTo what extent was information stolen from those computer systems disclosed?\r\nWas information leaked from both political party organizations equally \u2013 and if not, why not?\r\nDid staff members of the presidential campaigns have any contact with Russian officials or Wikileaks during the campaign?\r\nTo what degree are Russian President Vladimir Putin or other high-ranking officials personally involved in directing these Russian activities?\r\nHow do we prevent Russia from interfering in future U.S. elections?\u201d\r\n \r\nLast month, Senator Hirono sent a letter to President Obama calling on him to declassify any and all intelligence pertaining to Russian interference in the 2016 election.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/senate-passes-schatz-sullivan-markey-international-fisheries-bill", "Senate Passes Schatz-Sullivan-Markey International Fisheries Bill", "2016-12-13", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Passes Schatz-Sullivan-Markey International Fisheries Bill \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t Bipartisan Legislation Will Implement Pacific and Atlantic Fisheries Treaties \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, May 18, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON \u2013 The U.S. Senate unanimously passed S.1335, the Ensuring Access to Fisheries Act. The bipartisan legislation, introduced by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), will implement treaties ratified by the Senate last year to better manage\u00a0certain fisheries in the North and South Pacific and the North Atlantic.\u201cI thank Senator Sullivan and Senator Markey for their work to bring our oceans into international conservation and management,\u201d said Senator Schatz.\u00a0 \u201cWith the parts of this legislation that Senator Sullivan and I drafted, we have brought the remaining Pacific fisheries under international management.\u00a0 Our legislation gives the U.S. an opportunity to ensure that our oceans are managed sustainably now and for the future.\u201d\u201cThe Ensuring Access to Fisheries Act will rightfully give the United States a voice and assert our influence in both the fisheries management and conservation decisions in high seas areas of the Pacific Ocean covered by these treaties,\u201d said Senator Sullivan.\u00a0 \u201cDoing so will provide opportunities for our fishermen in the future, and help to protect their current activities for generations to come.\u201d\u201cFish do not follow political boundary lines on a map,\u201d said Senator Markey. \u201cInternational cooperation is essential to ensure healthy fishery resources in the North Atlantic and across the globe.\u00a0I thank Senators Schatz and Sullivan for their partnership on this effort and look forward to getting this legislation signed by the President.\u201d\u00a0Together with other existing treaties S.1335 would bring all high seas fisheries in the Pacific Ocean under international management bodies to ensure access for U.S. fishermen, and responsible management of ocean resources.\u00a0The bill will also implement updates to the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Convention to better manage international North Atlantic fisheries.\u00a0To streamline consideration, Senators Markey and Schatz combined their fisheries legislation\u2014S. 1251, the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Convention Amendments Act, and S. S. 1336, the South Pacific Fisheries Convention Implementation Act.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/senate-passes-schatz-sasse-data-transparency-legislation", "Senate Passes Schatz-Sasse Data Transparency Legislation", "2016-12-12", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Passes Schatz-Sasse Data Transparency Legislation \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 12, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON \u2013 The U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Open, Public, Electronic and Necessary (OPEN) Government Data Act, legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i) and Ben Sasse (R-Neb.). The bipartisan bill will require public data to be accessible at\u00a0Data.gov\u00a0so individuals, organizations, and other government offices can utilize it.\u201cPublic information belongs to the public, and it\u2019s the government\u2019s job to make sure that data is available and easily accessible in today\u2019s ever-changing digital world,\u201d\u00a0said Senator Schatz.\u00a0\u201cI thank Senator Sasse for working with me to get this through the Senate, and I look forward to continuing our work in the next Congress.\u201d \u201cI'm proud to work across the aisle with Senator Schatz to bring a 21st century solution to this city's antiquated, 20th century approach to data,\u201d\u00a0said Senator Sasse.\u00a0\u201cBecause transparency keeps Washington accountable to the people, government data should be made public unless an administration makes a compelling reason not to. After passing the Senate with bipartisan support, we have momentum to carry this important work into the new year.\u201d The OPEN Government Data Act will require, by default, the data included at\u00a0Data.gov\u00a0to be machine-readable format to make it accessible to anyone and easily searchable. It also protects privacy and national security information when making federal government data available to the public while requiring federal agencies use it to improve decision-making.\u201cThe passage of the OPEN Government Data Act marks another milestone in the open data movement,\u201d\u00a0said Hudson Hollister, Executive Director of the Data Coalition.\u00a0\u201cThis bill builds on open data reforms such as the DATA Act. Our Coalition and the emerging open data industry thank Senators Sasse and Schatz for their leadership.\u201dSupporters of the legislation include: the Sunlight Foundation, the Data Coalition, Center for Data Innovation, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Taxpayers for Common Sense, and BSA/The Software Alliance.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-stands-up-for-american-workers", "Hirono stands up for American workers", "2016-12-10", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono stands up for American workers\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tVotes to prevent cuts to health care for coal miners and widows\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tSaturday, December 10, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono joined with 36 Senators \u2013 including Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Harry Reid (D-NV), and Brian Schatz (D-HI) \u2013 and voted to stand up for middle class workers after Congressional Republicans moved to deny thousands of mine workers and widows the health care they earned.\r\nAfter the vote, Senator Hirono released the following statement:\r\n\u201cThe working people in our country need to know who\u2019s on their side. Workers in this country are getting screwed every single second, minute, and hour of the day. I\u2019m taking a stand on this bill to stand with them.\r\n\u201cThis fight is not just about coal miners. It\u2019s about all working people. Today, it\u2019s the coal miners. Tomorrow, it will be federal workers and other labor unions.\r\n\u201cI opposed this bill to send a message to Congressional Republicans and President-elect Trump. I will resist every attempt they make to weaken unions or to deny working people the benefits they\u2019ve earned.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/talia-s-law-heads-president-s-desk", "Talias Law Heads to the Presidents Desk", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCRep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) released the statement below after Talia's Law passed the U.S. Senate as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation now heads to the President for his signature.  \n\t  \n\tMore than a decade after Talia Williams's tragic death in 2005, there have been more than 29,000 cases of child abuse and neglect in military homes. Yet the same gaps in the military's reporting requirements that failed to protect Talia and so many other military children remain unchanged. Today, in memory of Talia, the United States Congress passed my legislation to close these reporting gaps and better protect thousands of children in military families. While this cannot right the wrongs that failed to protect Talia, this action honors her life by making long-overdue changes to get military children, and their families, the support and care they need and deserve, said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard.   \n\t  \n\tI am happy and thrilled my daughter's law has been passed by Congress and is headed to the White House. My daughter went through so much pain and agony and I am so proud that Talia's Law will prevent other kids from experiencing what my daughter went through. I am thankful and honored that my daughter's legacy will live on through Talia's Law, and I am grateful for everyone who played a part in getting her law passed, moving one step forward to saving a child's life, said Tarshia W. Hampton, Talia Williams' mother who wrote the original concept of Talia's Law. Tarshia brought the concept to Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to introduce in Congress. Protection and early intervention can prevent situations like what Talia faced from happening again. By passing Talia's Law, Child and Family Service (CFS) anticipates that all military personnel will become more empowered to follow all of the child welfare reporting mandates without fear of retaliation from their command, that child abuse and neglect will no longer be underreported, and that reporting will no longer be discouraged by the military's chain of command, said Amanda Pump, Program Administrator for Child & Family Service.  \n\t  \n\tThe passing of Talia's Law will create a further safety net to prevent a child from going through what happened to Talia. An issue of child abuse or neglect that goes unreported or underreported is a failure to allow for a child's right to safety and a healthy childhood. Abuse of any household member is simply unacceptable. Talia's Law will enforce early identification and response which is critical to the protection from further abuse. Thank you Congresswoman Gabbard for standing up for our children to assure that their safety and their basic needs are preserved, said Ryan Kusumoto, President/CEO of Parents And Children Together.  \n\t  Background: In 2005, five year old Talia Williams was beaten to death by her father, who was a soldier stationed at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. Leading up to her death, Talia suffered months of abuse from her father and stepmother. Despite multiple reports made to military officers, the case stayed within the military's chain of command, and nothing was done to take Talia out of harm's way.\nOutside of the military, mandated reporters (generally, professionals that come into contact with children such as physicians, psychologists, social workers, teachers, and others) are required to report any suspected cases of child abuse and neglect directly to State Child Protective Services. However, the military's reporting requirements do not currently require the same direct reporting requirements to state authorities.  \n\t  \n\tTo close the communications gap that may exist between mandated reporters and those who may report to the State on their behalf, Talia's Law would:\n Require servicemembers and their dependents to immediately report known or suspected instances of child abuse and neglect to their installation Family Advocacy Program Office. These offices are tasked with the prevention, education, intervention, and investigation of spouse and child abuse.\n\tAdditionally require servicemembers and their dependents to report any known or suspected child abuse directly to State Child Protective Services, or another appropriate state agency.\n   \n\tIn February, the House of Representatives unanimously passed Talia's Law (H.R. 3894), introduced by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard and Senator Mazie Hirono worked to include Talia's Law in this year's National Defense Authorization Act.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-introduces-legislation-stop-arming-terrorists", "VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Introduces Legislation to Stop Arming Terrorists", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCRep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) introduced the Stop Arming Terrorists Act today. The legislation would prohibit the U.S. government from using American taxpayer dollars to provide funding, weapons, training, and intelligence support to groups like the Levant Front, Fursan al Ha and other allies of Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, al-Qaeda and ISIS, or to countries who are providing direct or indirect support to those same groups.\nThe legislation is cosponsored by Reps. Peter Welch (D-VT-AL), Barbara Lee (D-CA-13), Dana Rohrabacher (R-CA-48), and Thomas Massie (R-KY-04), and supported by the Progressive Democrats of America (PDA) and the U.S. Peace Council.\nVideo of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard's speech on the House floor is available here\nRep. Tulsi Gabbard said, Under U.S. law it is illegal for any American to provide money or assistance to al-Qaeda, ISIS or other terrorist groups. If you or I gave money, weapons or support to al-Qaeda or ISIS, we would be thrown in jail. Yet the U.S. government has been violating this law for years, quietly supporting allies and partners of al-Qaeda, ISIL, Jabhat Fateh al Sham and other terrorist groups with money, weapons, and intelligence support, in their fight to overthrow the Syrian government.[i]\nThe CIA has also been funneling weapons and money through Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar and others who provide direct and indirect support to groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda. This support has allowed al-Qaeda and their fellow terrorist organizations to establish strongholds throughout Syria, including in Aleppo.\nA recent New York Times article confirmed that rebelgroups' supported by the U.S. have entered into battlefield alliances with the affiliate of al-Qaeda in Syria, formerly known as alNusra.'This alliance has rendered the phrase moderate rebels' meaningless. Reports confirm that every armed anti-Assad organization unit in those provinces [ofIdliband Aleppo] is engaged in a military structure controlled by [al-Qaeda's]Nusramilitants.'\nA recent Wall Street Journal article reported that many rebel groups are doubling down on their alliance' with alNusra. Some rebel groups are renewing their alliance, while others, likeNoural-Din al-Zinki,a former CIA-backed group and one of the largest factions in Aleppoare joining for the first time.The Syria Conquest Frontformerly known as the al-Qaeda-linkedNusraFrontis deeply intermingled with armed opposition groups of all stripes across Syria's battlefields.\nThe CIA has long been supporting a group calledFursanalHaqq, providing them with salaries, weapons and support, including surface to air missiles. This group is cooperating with and fighting alongside an al-Qaeda affiliated group trying to overthrow the Syrian government.The Levant Front is another so-called moderate umbrella group of Syrian opposition fighters. Over the past year, the United States has been working with Turkey to give this groupintelligence support and other forms of military assistance.This group has joined forces with al-Qaeda's offshoot group in Syria.\nThis madness must end.We must stop arming terrorists.The Government must end this hypocrisy and abide by the same laws that apply to its' citizens.\nThat is why I've introduced the Stop Arming Terrorists billlegislation based on congressional action during the Iran-Contra affair to stop the CIA's illegal arming of rebels in Nicaragua.It will prohibit any Federal agency from using taxpayer dollars to provide weapons, cash, intelligence, or any support to al-Qaeda, ISIS and other terrorist groups, and it will prohibit the government from funneling money and weapons through other countries who are directly or indirectly supporting terrorists, concluded Rep. Tulsi Gabbard.\nStephen Kinzer, a senior fellow at the Watson Institute for International Studies at Brown University, and award-winning author and journalist said, The proposal to stop sending weapons to insurgents in Syria is based on the principle that pouring arms into a war zone only intensifies suffering and makes peace more difficult to achieve. Congress made a decision like this about the Nicaraguan contras during the 1980s. Aid to the contras was cut off by the Boland Amendment. The result was a peace process that finally brought an end to wars not only in Nicaragua, but also in El Salvador and Guatemala. This is the example we should be following. Cutting off arms shipments forces belligerents to negotiate. That is what we achieved in Nicaragua. It should be our goal in Syria as well.\nDonna Smith, Executive Director of Progressive Democrats of America said, \"Progressive Democrats of America believes that it is fundamentally wrong for the United States to fund those groups or individuals aligned with al-Qaeda, Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, ISIS, or other terrorist/extremist organizations. The 'Stop Arming Terrorists' bill authored by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, of Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District, would help bring an end to the human tragedy unfolding in Syria where the haunting eyes of the innocent children of Aleppo call on us all to stop supporting those who threaten and kill them with ferocious intention. War is war, and terrorism is terrorism whether waged by the state or from external forces. PDA supports this measure.\"\nAlfred Marder, President of the U.S. Peace Council said, The U.S. Peace Council is honored to endorse and support the Stop Arming Terrorists Bill' as a major contribution to peace. This legislation will serve to galvanize the anti-war movement and the opposition to regime change policies that characterize our present foreign policy.\nBackground: The Stop Arming Terrorists bill prohibits U.S. government funds from being used to support al-Qaeda, ISIS or other terrorist groups. In the same way that Congress passed the Boland Amendment to prohibit the funding and support to CIA backed-Nicaraguan Contras during the 1980's, this bill would stop CIA or other Federal government activities in places like Syria by ensuring U.S. funds are not used to support al-Qaeda, Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, ISIS, or other terrorist groups working with them. It would also prohibit the Federal government from funding assistance to countries that are directly or indirectly supporting those terrorist groups. The bill achieves this by:\n Making it illegal for any U.S. Federal government funds to be used to provide assistance covered in this bill to terrorists.The assistance covered includes weapons, munitions, weapons platforms, intelligence, logistics, training, and cash.\n\tMaking it illegal for the U.S. government to provide assistance covered in the bill to any nation that has given or continues to give such assistance to terrorists.\n\tRequiring the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to determine the individual and groups that should be considered terrorists, for the purposes of this bill, by determining: (a) the individuals and groups that are associated with, affiliated with, adherents to or cooperating with al-Qaeda, Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, or ISIS; (b) the countries that are providing assistance covered in this bill to those individuals or groups.\n\tRequiring the DNI to review and update the list of countries and groups to which assistance is prohibited every six months, in consultation with the House Foreign Affairs and Armed Services Committees, as well as the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.\n\tRequiring the DNI to brief Congress on the determinations.\n \n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senate-passes-defense-bill-that-includes-key-hawaii-priorities", "Senate Passes Defense Bill That Includes Key Hawaii Priorities", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Passes Defense Bill That Includes Key Hawaii Priorities\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tStrengthens Child Abuse Reporting Requirements in Honor of Talia Williams; \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 8, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono, Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower, secured Hawaii priorities in the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that passed the Senate today. The NDAA is a bill that lays out the resource levels and defense policy for the year. Senator Hirono is also a member of the NDAA Conference Committee, which reconciled differences between different versions of the bill passed by the Senate and House earlier this year.\r\n\u201cHawaii\u2019s vital role, especially in the Indo-Asia-Pacific Rebalance, continues to be reflected in our national security priorities for the coming year,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cFrom securing nearly $300 million in military construction funding to including Talia\u2019s Law, which improves child abuse reporting requirements in honor of Talia Williams, this comprehensive legislation strengthens our national security and benefits our service members.\u201d\r\nThis year\u2019s NDAA includes Hirono priorities to provide nearly $300 million to improve military installations in Hawaii, and prevents devastating cuts to Hawaii\u2019s Impact Aid program. Senator Hirono also fought to include Talia\u2019s Law, a measure named after five-year-old Talia Williams, who died after months of abuse by her father and stepmother, that requires Department of Defense employees who interact with children to report suspected abuse to civilian authorities like the Hawaii Child Welfare Services.\r\nSenator Hirono was able to secure the following priorities for Hawaii:\r\nTalia\u2019s Law\r\nThe final bill includes the Senator\u2019s provision to strengthen prompt reporting and action on child abuse. Talia\u2019s Law, named in remembrance of Talia Williams, a five-year-old girl who died after months of abuse at the hands of her father and stepmother, requires immediate reporting of credible information to The Family Advocacy Program office at a military installation. Department of Defense employees who interact with children will also be required to report suspected abuse to civilian State Child Protective Services.\r\nOver $277 Million for Hawaii\u2019s Military Installations\r\n \r\n$73 million for the Navy Regimental Consolidated Communications and Electrical facility at Marine Corps Base Hawaii (Oahu)\r\n$40 million for the U.S. Army Pacific Headquarters Command and Control Facility at Fort Shafter (Oahu)\r\n$32 million for Aircraft Maintenance Hangar Upgrades (Oahu)\r\n$30 million for the construction of a water transmission line for Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (Oahu)\r\n$15 million for energy conservation projects at National Security Agency (NSA)-Hawaii in Wahiawa (Oahu)\r\n$11 million for the Air National Guard\u2019s F-22 Composite Repair Facility at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (Oahu)\r\n$2.6 million for facility upgrades at the Defense Information Systems Agency Pacific Command, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (Oahu)\r\n$43 million for the Navy Power Plant & Electrical Distribution Systems at Pacific Missile Range Facility Barking Sands (Kauai)\r\n$31 million for the Army National Guard Hilo Combined Support Maintenance Shop to support Pohakuloa Training Area (Hawaii Island)\r\n \r\nFunding Dry Dock Repair at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard\r\nThe final bill included a provision to allow for the repair, recapitalization, and certification of dry docks at Naval shipyards. This provision is intended to support the upkeep and maintenance of our nation\u2019s shipyards, including Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard.\r\nU.S.-Palau Compact\r\nSenator Hirono has consistently pushed for the national security importance of the United States\u2019 Compact Agreement with Palau and our obligations to Palau under the agreement. The final bill calls on the President to include funding for the agreement in the Fiscal year 2018 budget request.\r\nINDO-ASIA-PACIFIC REBALANCE:\r\nSoutheast Asia Maritime Security Initiative Extension\r\nThe final bill includes Senator Hirono\u2019s provision extending the Southeast Asia Maritime Security Initiative through 2020. The Southeast Asia Maritime Security Initiative is a joint effort with our allies and partners in Southeast Asia that helps countries share information, identifies potential threats, and works toward addressing challenges.\r\nEDUCATION:\r\nSaves Hawaii\u2019s Impact Aid Funding\r\nThe Impact Aid program provides Hawaii funding to help finance the education of military-connected children. As a Co-Chair of the Senate Impact Aid Coalition, Sen. Hirono successfully fought to include strong funding for the Impact Aid program with $30 million in supplemental impact aid and $5 million for impact aid for children with severe disabilities.\r\nConnecting Students to STEM Careers\r\nDuring the Senate\u2019s consideration of the NDAA, Senator Hirono partnered with Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) to protect the STARBASE program, which provides elementary students with opportunities to explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). The students served under the program are historically underrepresented in STEM fields. The final bill includes $25 million for the STARBASE program, which is consistent with the Senate\u2019s bill and $5 million more than what the House had provided.\r\nHEALTH CARE:\r\nCreation of Online Patient Portal\r\nThe final bill includes Senator Hirono\u2019s provision to create an online patient portal that would help patients with managing appointments, test results, and communications with providers. The bill implements a standardized appointment system and health care provider productivity standards.\r\nTelehealth Services\r\nSenator Hirono successfully included provisions in the bill that will enhance the use of telehealth services in the military health system.\r\nEvaluation and Treatment of Veterans and Civilians at Military Treatment Facilities \r\nSenator Hirono supported a provision to provide access in special cases for civilians and veterans to be evaluated and treated at Military Treatment Facilities. This will improve access in Hawaii in cases where veterans and civilians are unable to access the care they need at other health care facilities.\r\nMedically Necessary Foods\r\nThe final bill includes Senator Hirono\u2019s provision that would allow special foods and nutrients necessary due to metabolic disorders and other conditions to be covered under TRICARE. Covering these medically necessary foods should improve beneficiary health and reduce hospitalization.\r\nRural and Remote Considerations for Health Care Services\r\nSenator Hirono partnered with Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) to ensure that DoD takes into consideration the unique challenges of providing health care services in rural and remote locations when entering into medical support contracts with local providers.\r\nMILITARY FAMILIES:\r\nReauthorization of National Guard and Reserve Suicide Prevention Programs\r\nScheduled to expire in 2017, a provision authored by Sen. Hirono extends to 2018 the requirement that the Department of Defense carry out programs that provide members of the National Guard and Reserves and their families in Hawaii and across the country with training in suicide prevention, resilience, and community healing and response to suicide, including provision of such training at Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program events.\r\nMilitary Spouses\r\nSenator Hirono championed language in the final bill which would improve the Department of Defense\u2019s ability to hire military spouses as the military member moves from assignment to assignment.\r\nSMALL BUSINESS:\r\nExtension of the SBIR and STTR programs\r\nThe final bill includes a provision that Senator Hirono supported that extends the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs for 5 years. Since both programs\u2019 creation, Hawaii businesses have received 593 awards totaling over $161 million.\r\nVETERANS:\r\nAsian American and Pacific Islander Medal of Honor Review\r\nSenator Hirono strongly supported a provision requiring the DoD to review the service records of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) veterans from the Korean and Vietnam wars to determine if the award of the Medal of Honor is appropriate.\r\nOverseas Civilian Pay\r\nSenator Hirono successfully included a provision to allow overtime pay for civilian employees temporarily assigned to support Navy ships forward deployed in Japan.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-senators-to-trump-medicare-and-medicaid-should-be-protected-not-cut", "Schatz, Senators to Trump: Medicare and Medicaid Should Be Protected, Not Cut", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Schatz, Senators to Trump: Medicare and Medicaid Should Be Protected, Not Cut \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t More than 500,000 People in Hawai\u2018i Rely on Medicare and Medicaid \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 8, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and 18 other senators called on President-elect Donald Trump to protect Medicare and Medicaid and not cut it, as his recent actions have suggested he might do. In a letter to Trump, the senators raised concerns over his choice for U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Rep. Tom Price, and language on the transition website that calls for changes to Medicare and Medicaid.\u201cOver one hundred million Americans rely on these programs for health care,\u201d the senators wrote. \u201cLow-income children and families and people with disabilities are the primary beneficiaries of Medicaid. Millions of seniors and individuals with disabilities have earned and rely on their Medicare benefits. Medicaid is the only assistance available to millions of low and middle-income families who have a loved one requiring nursing home care. As you noted when you extolled their benefits on your campaign website, cutting these programs would be devastating.\u201dToday, nearly 245,000 people in Hawai\u2018i are Medicare beneficiaries, and more than 300,000 Hawai\u2018i residents are enrolled in Medicaid/CHIP. Since its creation, these programs have provided vital health care services for seniors and families in need.     In addition to Senators Schatz, Warren, and Wyden, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Al Franken (D-Minn.),\u00a0 Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai\u2018i).Full text of the letter available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-honors-75th-anniversary-pearl-harbor", "VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Honors 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCIn a speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives today, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) honored the 75th Anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor:\nVideo of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard's speech is available here\nMy heart is in Hawaii today. At almost this exact time, on this very day 75 years ago, the first bombs were dropped in the attack on Pearl Harbor. More than 2,400 people perished on that fateful day that will forever live in infamy.\nWe remember our brothers and sisters who paid the ultimate price, and those who answered the call to serve in the months and years that followed, including our two former Senators Inouye and Akaka, and the more than 320,000 who gave their lives in that war. \nWe remember the Japanese Americans whose lives forever changed when after the attack on Pearl Harbor, they were thrown into internment camps. And the brave Nisei, who in spite of these atrocities, volunteered to serve, forming the Nisei-only \"Go For Broke\" 442nd Infantry Regiment, serving courageously, and sacrificing greatly. \nMay we never forget what happened at Pearl Harbor, the lessons learned, and the sacrifices of all who served.\nBackground: Last month, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard reintroduced a House resolution originally authored by Congressman Takai that commemorates the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, and honoring the more than 320,000 men and women who gave their lives in defense of the United States during World War II.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://hanabusa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/representative-hanabusa-delivers-floor-speech-honoring-our-world-war-ii", "REPRESENTATIVE HANABUSA DELIVERS FLOOR SPEECH HONORING OUR WORLD WAR II VETERANS ON THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF PEARL HARBOR", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Colleen Hanabusa", "H001050", "hanabusa.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.\u00a0\u2013 On Wednesday, December 7, 2016, Representative Colleen Hanabusa delivered a speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives honoring our World War II veterans on December 7, 2016, the 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor. \nCongresswoman Hanabusa:\u00a0 Over 2,400 Americans lost their lives in the attack on Pearl Harbor.\u00a0 \u00a0Let us not forget the sacrifices of the greatest generation and the diversity of the men and women who fought hand-in-hand to protect the civil liberties for which our country is respected throughout the world.\nhttps://www.c-span.org/video/?c4635471/rep-hanabusa-pearl-harbor-75th", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://hanabusa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/representative-hanabusa-meets-fta-acting-administrator-carolyn-flowers", "REPRESENTATIVE HANABUSA MEETS WITH FTA ACTING ADMINISTRATOR CAROLYN FLOWERS", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Colleen Hanabusa", "H001050", "hanabusa.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.\u00a0\u2013 On Wednesday, December 7, 2016, Representative Colleen Hanabusa met with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Acting Administrator Carolyn Flowers regarding the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) rail project and the FTA\u2019s letter dated December 6, 2016.\nCongresswoman Hanabusa:\u00a0 I had a very productive meeting with Acting Administrator Carolyn Flowers today, and I remain confident of the FTA\u2019s continuing commitment to partner with the City and County of Honolulu on the rail project.\u00a0 While the FTA letter dated December 6, 2017 did not grant the City\u2019s request for a July 30, 2017 Recovery Plan submission date, it did provide an earlier date (April 30, 2017) that will actually benefit the City by allowing access to the next layer (tronch) of federal funds following the submission of an acceptable Recovery Plan. \u00a0I encourage HART, under the leadership of Krishniah Murthy, to continue working closely with the FTA as they prepare their Recovery Plan consistent with FTA guidance.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/21st-century-cures-act-to-advance-cancer-research-in-hawaii", "21st Century CURES Act to advance cancer research in Hawaii", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "21st Century CURES Act to advance cancer research in Hawaii\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tBill also shores up access to essential medical equipment for Hawaii seniors\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 7, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono voted to support the 21st Century CURES Act, a comprehensive bill to accelerate medical research, which passed the Senate today.\r\n\u201cThis bill directs additional resources to Hawaii researchers on the cutting edge of uncovering new cancer treatments and strengthens seniors\u2019 access to essential durable medical equipment under Medicare\u2019s new reimbursement system,\u201d said Senator Hirono.\r\n\"I am grateful for Senator Hirono's support of the 21st Century CURES Act,\u201d said Dr. Randall Holcombe, Director of the University of Hawaii Cancer Center. \u201cThis legislation will accelerate the pace of cancer research at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center and provide direct benefit for the people of Hawaii.\u201d\r\n\u201cWe are grateful that Congress included relief for Hawaii residents living in rural areas in this important legislation,\u201d said George Greene, Healthcare Association of Hawaii President and CEO. \u201cWe also reiterate our thanks to Senator Hirono for her tireless work on this issue. This legislation will open the door to further actions that could address the access issues our providers have faced since cuts started almost four years ago. We look forward to continuing our work with Senator Hirono and our government officials in making sure that Hawaii\u2019s seniors have access to the medical equipment and supplies they need.\u201d\r\nThe bill includes $4.8 billion in funding for the National Institutes of Health for research, including nearly $2 billion for Vice President Joe Biden\u2019s moonshot initiative to accelerate finding cures for cancer. As one of only 69 National Cancer Center-designated centers in the nation, the University of Hawaii Cancer Center is eligible for funding to advance research on the genetic diversity of tumors and the mechanisms of cancer development.\r\nThe 21st Century CURES Act also includes language Senator Hirono fought for to help Hawaii seniors access essential medical equipment. Because of changes in Medicare reimbursement rates, Hawaii Medicare beneficiaries have been at a disadvantage in procuring medical equipment such as oxygen tanks and wheelchairs. The legislation passed today eases these cuts, as well as calling for the long-term evaluation of the detrimental effects the rate changes have on rural communities like those in Hawaii.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-leads-effort-to-recognize-the-75th-anniversary-of-attack-on-pearl-harbor", "Hirono leads effort to recognize the 75th anniversary of attack on Pearl Harbor", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono leads effort to recognize the 75th anniversary of attack on Pearl Harbor\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tResolution precedes visit from Japanese Prime Minister Abe and President Obama to Pearl Harbor on December 27\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 7, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono led a bipartisan coalition in introducing a resolution marking the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.\r\n\u201cOn this solemn anniversary we honor not only those who lost their lives in the attack on Pearl Harbor, but also those who sacrificed so much in the years that followed during World War II,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cWhile we will always remember what happened 75 years ago, today is also an opportunity to reflect on the power of reconciliation, the strength of our alliance with Japan, and the importance of remaining engaged in the Asia-Pacific.\u201d\r\nThe resolution was cosponsored by 30 Senators: Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Susan Collins (R-ME), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Mark Kirk (R-IL), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Ed Markey (D-MA), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Christopher Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Gary Peters (D-MI), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), John Thune (R-SD), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).\r\nSenator Hirono\u2019s resolution pays tribute to the thousands service members and civilians killed in the attack, and honors all American World War II service members. It also acknowledges the strong alliance the United States has forged with Japan since World War II ended. Click here to download a copy of the resolution.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-fta-extension", "Schatz Statement on FTA Extension", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Schatz Statement on FTA Extension \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 7, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i) released the following statement regarding the Federal Transit Administration\u2019s (FTA) approval of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit\u2019s request for an extension to submit its Recovery Plan:\u201cThe city has developed a more clear-eyed, realistic plan to get the rail project back on track. More must be done in the coming months to ensure we can complete the project, but this extension is welcome news \u200efor Honolulu and is further indication of the FTA\u2019s commitment to the rail project.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-president-elect-trumps-nomination-of-scott-pruitt-as-epa-administrator", "Schatz Statement on President-Elect Trumps Nomination of Scott Pruitt as EPA Administrator", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Schatz Statement on President-Elect Trump\u2019s Nomination of Scott Pruitt as EPA Administrator \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 7, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i) released the following statement today regarding President-elect Donald Trump\u2019s nomination of Scott Pruitt as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).\u201cClimate change is real, urgent, and caused by humans. It is a scientifically proven fact that any EPA Administrator should accept.\u00a0 That\u2019s why I cannot support Scott Pruitt, a denier of climate science, to lead the EPA. \u201cThe EPA has the enormous responsibility of protecting our environment and keeping Americans safe and healthy. Its administrator should share those goals, but Scott Pruitt\u2019s record has shown us that he does not.\u00a0 While the EPA is tasked with protecting our people and our environment from the impacts of climate change, he denies the science behind it.\u00a0 And while the agency has worked to keep our air and water clean and safe, Scott Pruitt has worked to undermine the very rules that protect those resources. \u201cThe health of our planet and our people is too important to leave in the hands of someone who does not believe in scientific facts or the basic mission of the EPA.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-announces-more-than-3-million-in-federal-funding-to-fight-invasive-species", "Hirono announces more than $3 million in federal funding to fight invasive species", "2016-12-06", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono announces more than $3 million in federal funding to fight invasive species\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tWill fund fight against Rapid Ohia Death, coffee berry borer, other invasive species\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 13, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono announced that federal, state, and academic organizations in Hawaii will receive nearly $3.1 million in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) funding to fight invasive specie\u00ad\u00ads, which will address threats facing Hawaii\u2019s environment and farmers, including Rapid Ohia Death, the coffee berry borer, the coconut rhinoceros beetle, and the little fire ant. The funding will also support agriculture pre-clearance inspections at airports.\r\n\u201cHawaii is on the front line in addressing invasive pests, and early detection is critical to protecting our agriculture and environment,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cThis funding will advance critical programs that help farmers and land managers address invasive species, as well efforts to keep these pests from spreading to other communities.\u201d\r\n\u201cThe University of Hawaii is very pleased to hear that a new project has been funded through USDA-APHIS on the management of the coffee berry borer in Hawaii and Puerto Rico,\u201d said Raymond Carruthers, University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources Extension Agent. \u201cThe main thrust of this effect will be to coordinate control efforts with on-going Federal, State and local projects on CBB management, along with the additional development of new insect biological control technologies. We feel that developing, testing and the eventual use of insect parasitoids will be a key for long-term sustainable management of the CBB in both Hawaii and Puerto Rico.\u201d\r\n\u201cDLNR is very appreciative of the assistance from USDA APHIS through Farm Bill funding to contain the fungus causing Rapid Ohia Death on Hawaii Island. State, federal, private, and community efforts are all needed to deal with this urgent issue,\u201d said Robert Hauff, State Protection Forester, Division of Forestry & Wildlife, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.\r\nEarlier this year Senator Hirono wrote directly to USDA in support of this funding, which will be divided amongst USDA research efforts in Hawaii, the University of Hawaii, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, and the Hawaii Department of Agriculture. In 2015, Senator Hirono and USDA Deputy Secretary Krysta Harden met with Hawaii Island farmers, where they saw firsthand the lasting impact that invasive species such as the coffee berry borer have on Hawaii\u2019s coffee crops.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/in-the-news/rolling-stone-standing-rock-tulsi-gabbard-what-dakota-pipeline-decision-means", "Rolling Stone: Standing Rock: Tulsi Gabbard on What the Dakota Pipeline Decision Means", "2016-12-05", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Thousands of U.S. veterans descended on Cannon Ball, North Dakota this weekend, determined to defend protesters opposing the construction of the final leg of the Dakota Access pipeline. Among them was U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), a major in the Hawaii Army National Guard. The Congresswoman landed in Bismarck at 10 p.m. on Friday night, ready to help resist if the North Dakota National Guard was in fact, as rumored, deployed to clear out the camp.\nThen something unexpected happened: On Sunday night, the Army Corps of Engineers announced it would not grant Energy Transfer Partners, the corporation constructing the project, an easement to route the pipeline under Lake Oahe. The decision was a huge victory for the Standing Rock Sioux, whose reservation lies directly downriver. Gabbard spoke with Rolling Stone on a layover between her flights back to Washington on Monday to explain what the decision means.\nI want to start by just hearing about your reaction to the news that broke yesterday that the Army Corps of Engineers' announcement that it would not grant the easement.\nIt was an unexpected turn of events. It was wonderful news that really showed the power of bringing people together in a peaceful way and raising their voices in unity for the protection of water, showed what's possible when that happens.\nAs word started trickling around in different sections  I started getting text messages and calls from different people asking if it's true  the tension and excitement was in the air [all around the camp] and, finally, the chairman of the tribe, Chairman Archambault, confirmed that it was true and, you know, it was very emotional moment to see how something that the tribe has been fighting for years, and thousands of people who had come from all over the country and even different parts of the world, had gathered there for months, raising their voices as water protectors  to see how all of that paid off was a very powerful moment.\n[It] was a big moment for the people of Standing Rock, but it was [also] a symbol for the many other challenges that still exist and how we can go about bringing change.\nDid you have any sense the decision was coming?\nYou know, I didn't. We've obviously been pressing for this exact action to occur, and I met with Chairman Archambault right when I got to Standing Rock on Saturday and the last question I asked him was, 'I've got to go back to Washington on Monday for votes: What's the number one message you want me to take back?' And he said: 'Deny the easement. Plain and simple: Deny the easement.\" To hear that news come out just the following day  on a Sunday afternoon  it's a powerful thing to know the people's voices were actually heard.\nWhat does yesterday's decision mean for the company, Energy Transfer Partners, building the pipeline?\nBecause the Army Corps has said they will not approve the easement for any pipeline to occur in that specific location under Lake Oahe, in effect, that will cause the [company building the] pipeline to look at other routes. So whether that means they are going to reexamine other routes that they had previously considered and ruled out, or if they are going to try to determine if there are any other additional routes that they had not previously considered  I don't know if it's one or the other or both. But the other key component, that is really important that goes along with this announcement is something [else] that the tribe has been pushing for for a long time, which is making sure that they order and environmental impact statement of the whole project in whatever route they end up choosing.\nWait... There wasn't an environmental impact statement prepared for this project already?\nShockingly, no. There was an environmental assessment done, which is not nearly as comprehensive as an environmental impact statement... With an environmental assessment they look at data and numbers and assess statistics, but what an environmental impact statement will do is it will mandate in-depth and extensive public hearings  conversations with the community and many other actions in an attempt to determine not only what the data shows, but will the actual impact of this project be on people and communities and their environment and their resources, such as water, so that's an important win as well. And I was shocked to learn that that had not been done previously. And that begs a bigger policy question: when you're building a gigantic pipeline that crosses through four different states, how is is possible that an EIS is not a mandatory part of that process?\nWhat's next for the tribe, and for all of the demonstrators that came to Standing Rock  how long do they plan to remain at the encampment?\nWell, there are other issues that they would like to pursue. One that was mentioned was actually trying to change the law and the policy. If you have a project that encroaches on or crosses over treaty lands, the current requirement is that the tribal leaders are simply consulted, but there is no consent required. They would like to change the consultation [requirement] to a requirement of consent before anything can be constructed over or through tribal lands. There are a number of other policy issues that they are going to continue to try to pursue.\nAnd, look, they are also cognizant of the response that the Energy Transfer Partners company responded with to the Army Corps announcement. I spent quite a bit of time with [the tribe chairman and] other tribal leaders late in the evening and there was so much joy, but along with the joy in the announcement is resolve and an understanding that it's not over.\nThe work will continue, as far as the tribal leaders are concerned, and it's the same with the water protectors who have come there. I spent some time at the veterans camp last night after the announcement was made, and you know, they are concerned with the safety and security of the people there. Some of them shared with me that they plan to stay until the drilling pad is disassembled and the Dakota Access Pipeline construction team leaves  they want to see this all the way through to the end, and ensure that those who end up staying, they're able to help make sure that there is peace and stability for the gathering of the people there throughout the duration. ...But I think everyone is thinking hard about where they can be most helpful. Others are talking about where is the next fight to protect our water. There's a situation in Utah. There's a situation in New Mexico. There are people I met from Flint, Michigan who would like to see this same attention and resolve brought to resolve their situation there. You know, there's not a lack of things to do, unfortunately.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://hanabusa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-obama-meet-japanese-prime-minister-shinzo-abe-honolulu-hawaii", "PRESIDENT OBAMA TO MEET WITH JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER SHINZO ABE IN HONOLULU, HAWAII ON DECEMBER 27, 2016 AND VISIT THE USS ARIZONA MEMORIAL AT PEARL HARBOR", "2016-12-05", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Colleen Hanabusa", "H001050", "hanabusa.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.\u00a0\u2013 On Monday, December 5, 2016, President Obama announced that he will meet with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Honolulu, Hawaii, on December 27, 2016 to review their joint efforts over the past four years to strengthen the U.S.-Japan alliance, including the close cooperation by the U.S. and Japan on a number of security, economic, and global challenges. President Obama will also accompany Prime Minister Abe to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor where the two will honor those killed in the war.\u00a0 The two leaders\u2019 visit will showcase the power of reconciliation that has turned former adversaries into the closest of allies, united by common interests and shared values. \nCongresswoman Hanabusa:\u00a0 The visit by the Japanese Prime Minister to Pearl Harbor just over 75 years after Japan\u2019s attack in 1941 is historic and symbolic of the strong relationship President Obama has forged with Prime Minister Abe and the people of Japan.\u00a0 President Obama\u2019s historic visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park last May opened the door for greater healing and deeper reconciliation between the two countries.\u00a0 Prime Minister Abe\u2019s visit to Pearl Harbor on December 27th will honor the 75th Commemoration of Pearl Harbor taking place this Wednesday, December 7, 2016, in Hawaii.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-fcc-investigation-into-sandwich-isles-communications", "Schatz Statement on FCC Investigation into Sandwich Isles Communications", "2016-12-05", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Schatz Statement on FCC Investigation into Sandwich Isles Communications \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 5, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON \u2013\u00a0U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i), ranking member of the Senate Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, issued the following statement in response to the Federal Communications Commission\u2019s (FCC) announcement relating to Sandwich Isles Communications\u2019 (SIC) improper use of Universal Service Funds.\u00a0\r\n\u201cI fully support the FCC\u2019s efforts to combat waste, fraud, and abuse of the Universal Service Fund by Sandwich Isles Communications.\u00a0 The mishandling of these funds is morally and legally unacceptable, and I expect SIC to fully comply with the order without disruptions in service or additional costs to their customers on Hawaiian Home Lands.\u00a0\r\n\u201cAt the core of the nation\u2019s communications policies is\u00a0the idea that all Americans deserve to have access to communications services \u2013 especially broadband.\u00a0 The Universal Service Fund was\u00a0created in an effort to ensure universal service and provides essential support to communications companies to provide telephone and broadband service in hard-to-serve areas of our country. As an island state with many rural communities, we understand the economic and social importance of telephone and broadband service and the need\u00a0for a robust universal service support system.\u00a0 But those companies who accept support from the fund must be good stewards of that money and use it appropriately.\r\n\u201cI have contacted FCC Chairman Wheeler to request his personal attention to this issue in order to ensure that customers are not made victims of SIC\u2019s mishandling of funds. I am confident the FCC will apply all of its statutory and regulatory powers to protect customers on Hawaiian Home Lands from disruptions in service in this case.\u201d\r\nClick here\u00a0to read Sen. Schatz\u2019s letter to FCC Chairman Wheeler.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/in-the-news/huffington-post-hawaii-s-tulsi-gabbard-joins-water-protectors-standing-rock", "Huffington Post: Hawaiis Tulsi Gabbard Joins Water Protectors at Standing Rock", "2016-12-04", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. CongresswomanTulsi Gabbard's(D-HI) Twitter handle is an accurate summation of the unpretentious woman who stood before 400 Veterans and Water Protectors at Sitting Bull College in Fort Yates, North Dakota. It was a frigid Dakota Saturday night, and you could have heard the proverbial pin drop echo against the metal walls as she addressed the crowd. Gabbard served two tours of duty in the Middle East, and she continues her service as a Major in the Army National Guard. In 2005 she completed a 12-month tour in Iraq, where she served in a field medical unit as a specialist with a 29th Support Battalion medical company. Gabbard was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal at the end of the tour.\nThe vets were proud to have one of their own in a visible leadership role. It was written on their faces and obvious in the occasional tear that was quickly wiped away.\nIn a show of solidarity with the Standing Rock Sioux, Congresswoman Gabbard is joining thousands of veterans from across the United States who have come to Standing Rock and the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation to protest the building of the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL). The pipeline, if approved by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, would cross under the Missouri River and threaten not only the water supplies of Standing Rock, but also that of the Cheyenne River Sioux to the south.\nIn a statement to the Oceti Sakowin Camp Gabbard said, I'm participating in the Dakota Access Pipeline protest because of the threat this project poses to water resources in four states serving millions of people.\nAddressing the universal issue of water quality, Gabbard said, Whether it's the threat to essential water sources in this region, the lead contamination in Flint, Michigan, or the threat posed to a major Hawaii aquifer by the Red Hill fuel leak, each example underscores the vital importance of protecting our water resources.\nSome may remember the Congresswoman as the person who introduced and nominated Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) for President of the United States during the second day of the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia last July 26. Gabbard quit her post as vice chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee to support Sanders in the primaries.\nIn recent days, Gabbard met with President-elect Donald Trump and his transition team last Monday. Sources say she is possibly being considered for positions in the Defense Department, State Department and the United Nations, according to aCNN report.\nVeterans for Standing Rock, are assembling at the Standing Rock Reservation from December 4-7 to relieve the water protectors from the harsh winter conditions and the constant emotional pressure and presence of militarized law enforcement.\nWe are veteransof the United States Armed Forces, including the U.S. Army, United States Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Coast Guard and we are calling for our fellow veterans to assemble as a peaceful, unarmed militia at the Standing Rock Indian Reservation on Dec 4-7 and defend the water protectors from assault and intimidation at the hands of the militarized police force and DAPL security, the organization said.\nNews reports of Morton County's use of the same weapons on Americans that veterans used against terrorists in Afghanistan and Iraq have mobilized the veteran's community, including Wesley Clark, the son of Gen. Wesley Clark. Clark has been instrumental in fundraising for the group. So far they have raised over $1 million.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-statement-army-corps-engineers-decision-not-grant-easement", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Statement on Army Corps of Engineers Decision to Not Grant Easement", "2016-12-04", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cannon Ball, NDRep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) released the following statement after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' (ACE) decision to deny the federal easement for the construction of any pipeline below Lake Oahe, which is the current route of the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL):\nThis is a historic moment for the Standing Rock Sioux and the water protectors who have gathered here from across the country. This announcement in effect requires the Dakota Access Pipeline to be reroutedan essential step in protecting water for millions of people in this region as well as respecting this sacred land.    \n\t  \n\tIn my meeting yesterday with Tribal Chairman Dave Archambault, he emphasized the importance of caring for our planet not as a resource, but as our relative. Water is life; we cannot survive without it. Whether it's the threat to essential water sources in this region, lead contamination in Flint, Michigan, the potential threat posed to our water by the Red Hill fuel storage facility on Oahu, or the many other threats to our water across our nation, we must act now to protect our precious water for current and future generations to come. I join Chairman Archambault, my fellow veterans, the thousands of water protectors here at Standing Rock, and millions of people around the world in expressing tremendous gratitude for this announcement. While we are victorious in this effort, our work to protect our water and take care of our land is far from over. We must continue to raise our voices as one in this worthy fight.\nThis weekend, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and thousands of veterans from across the country joined the water protectors at Standing Rock to stand in solidarity and call for an immediate halt to the pipeline's construction. She will return to Washington, DC Monday in time for votes in the House of Representatives.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/in-the-news/garden-island-pipeline-project-should-matter-hawaii", "Garden Island:  Pipeline project should matter to Hawaii", "2016-12-03", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Something happening some 3,000 miles away on the mainland usually wouldnt attract too much attention from our states legislative leaders.\nBut the Dakota Access Pipeline project is drawing looks from the Aloha State, and Rep. Tulsi Gabbard took a strong stand against it on Thursday.\nShe is right.\nIn a speech on the House floor, Gabbard called on President Barack Obama to immediately halt construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline and announced plans to join thousands of veterans from across the country to stand in solidarity with the Standing Rock Sioux in North Dakota this weekend.\nGrowing up in Hawaii, I learned the value of caring for our home, caring for our planet, and the basic principle that we are all connected in a great chain of cause and effect, she said.\nThe Dakota Access Pipeline is a threat to this great balance of life. Despite strong opposition from the Standing Rock Sioux and serious concerns raised by the EPA, the Department of Interior, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and other Federal agencies, the Army Corps of Engineers approved permits to construct the Dakota Access Pipeline without adequately consulting the tribes, and without fully evaluating the potential impacts to neighboring tribal lands, sacred sites, and their water supply. Just one spill near the tribes reservation could release thousands of barrels of crude oil, contaminating the tribes drinking water.\nGabbard isnt just coming on board.\nIn September, she and 18 House Democrats wrote to the president calling on the United States Army Corps of Engineers to fulfill their responsibility of holding meaningful consultation and collaboration with the Standing Rock Sioux over the route of the Dakota Access Pipeline.\nSince that didnt happen, shes clearly stating her position on this issue.\nWhich, again, leads one to question why folks in Hawaii should care about this project in a land far, far away Dont we have our own problems here? On Kauai, coral disease, a proposed dairy farm, a proposed landfill, water usage and polluted steams are just some of the areas in our environment that will affect the community. Our resources  land, water, air  are precious. Anyone who lives here knows this. They should be protected. They should be cared for.\nThe truth is, whether its the threat to essential water sources in this region, the lead contaminated water in Flint, Michigan, or the threat posed to a major Hawaii aquifer by the Red Hill fuel leak, each example underscores the vital importance of protecting our water resources, Gabbard said.\nThis pipeline, which has drawn continued protests of late, is consider by many, including Gabbard, a threat to the environment. Whether such projects are on an island in the ocean or cutting across land considered sacred, they must be vetted carefully. Many believe this did not happen with the Dakota Access Pipeline. Thats why many from Hawaii have traveled there to be part of the protests.\nGabbard points out Energy Transfer Partners, the company constructing the Dakota Pipeline, has a history of serious pipeline explosions, which have caused injury, death and property damage in the past decade. The future operator of the planned pipeline, Sunoco Logistics, has had over 200 environmentally damaging oil spills in the last six years alone.\nThese days, we should know better than to spoil the environment for  and this is what things usually come down to  money. Sometimes, we dont learn our lessons. Our track record at protecting the environment is blemished.\nGabbard put it well: Protecting our water is not a partisan political issue  it is an issue that is important to all people and all living beings everywhere. Water is life. We cannot survive without it. Once we allow an aquifer to be polluted, there is very little that can be done about it. This is why it is essential that we prevent water resources from being polluted in the first place.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-votes-against-arming-terrorists-defense-authorization-bill", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Votes Against Arming Terrorists in Defense Authorization Bill", "2016-12-02", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCRep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) released the following statement after voting against the FY17 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):  \n\t  \n\tThis bill contains the same deeply concerning and dangerous Syria train and equip measures that I've fought against since the program's inception.\nFirst, it creates the potential for dangerous ground-to-air missiles getting in the hands of ISIS, al-Qaeda, and other terrorist groups. Several months ago, as this bill was being crafted, I and many of my colleagues voted for an amendment that would have prohibited the Department of Defense from transferring any Man-Portable Air-Defense Systems (MANPAD) to fighters in Syria. In the wrong hands, these dangerous weapons are capable of shooting American planes out of the sky. The final bill that passed today allows for the transfer of MANPADs, with some weak restrictions, which could allow terrorist groups to get ahold of them and use them against the United States and our allies.   \n\t  \n\tSecond, the bill reauthorizes and extends the Syria train and equip program for two years. When the Department of Defense brought this program to Congress two years ago, I strongly opposed it due to a weak vetting process, and counterproductive objectives. As predicted, the program turned out to be a failure, and resulted in the United States wasting hundreds of millions of dollars, arming poorly vetted groups whoinstead of fighting against ISIS, al-Qaeda, or other terrorist groupsended up joining these terrorist groups in their battle to overthrow the Syrian government.  \n\t  \n\tOver the past 2 years, the Department of Defense has made several improvements to the vetting process and clarified the program's objectives. These improvements have helped to ensure that we work solely with forces that share our common goal of defeating ISIS. However, the bill that passed today leaves out all of these improvements, allowing these authorizing provisions to be used once again to further the illegal, counterproductive regime change war against the Syrian government. If successful, this war will strengthen groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda, worsen the humanitarian crisis, and cause even greater destruction and suffering in Syria. I will continue to do all I can to end this devastating war, focus our resources on nation building here at home, and defeat terrorist groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS who threaten the American people.  \n\t  \n\tThe FY17 NDAA passed the House today by a vote of 375-34. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and the Hawaii Congressional Delegation worked to secure the following provisions in the final bill:  \n\t Talia's Law will help to better protect military children from abuse and strengthen mandatory reporting requirements. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard introduced and passed Talia's Law through the House in February, and also included its language in this year's NDAA.  \n\t Strengthened missile defense capabilities against the threat posed by North Korea, including upgrades for existing missile defense infrastructure in Hawaii  \n\t Improved environmental protections for Hawaii, including requiring the Navy to brief Congress on the infrastructure plan to improve the Red Hill Underground Fuel Facility and protect the water aquifer from potential fuel leak contamination  \n\t $72 million for projects at Kneohe Bay Marine Corps Base Hawaii for a consolidated communications and electrical facility in support of modernization projects  \n\t $40 million for the second phase of the state-of-the-art Command and Control Facility at Fort Shafter  \n\t $31 million for a National Guard combined support maintenance shop in Hilo to support ongoing training at Phakuloa Training Area  \n\t More than $14 million for an energy conservation project at the National Security Agency-Hawaii in Kunia  \n\t Over $43 million for the continued power grid consolidation at Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai  \n\t $11 million for the Air National Guard F-22 Composite Repair Facility at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam  \n\t\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/senate-approves-schatz-thune-weather-forecasting-reforms", "Senate Approves Schatz-Thune Weather Forecasting Reforms", "2016-12-02", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Approves Schatz-Thune Weather Forecasting Reforms \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t Passage Comes After House and Senate Negotiators Reach Deal for Provisions to Become Law \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 2, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON \u2013 The U.S. Senate last night, approved H.R. 1561, the Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2016, by unanimous consent with a Senate amendment. The bill as amended, which leaders of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House Science Committee negotiated, adds other weather forecasting and research reform provisions from three bills (S. 1331, S. 1573, and H.R. 34), including reforms championed by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i), Commerce Committee Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.), and House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas).\r\n\u201cThis legislation opens the way for better outcomes when severe weather hits our communities,\u201d said Senator Schatz. \u201cThe bill strengthens the science to forecast severe heat and cold, storms, tornadoes, tsunamis, draughts, floods, and hurricanes so that our warnings are more timely and accurate.\u00a0The bill also improves how the government communicates these threats to the public, so that families and businesses can stay safe and be prepared so that they can recover quicker. We cannot stop a tsunami or a hurricane, but better forecasts and better warnings will save lives and livelihoods.\u201d\r\n\u201cThese reforms will help ensure that Americans benefit from advancements in weather forecasting and make federal forecasters better stewards of taxpayer dollars,\u201d said Senator Thune. \u201cFrom long-term forecasting that can prevent costly agricultural losses to more actionable information about severe weather, this legislation will help save lives and reduce avoidable property loss.\u201d\u00a0\r\n\u201cThis important bipartisan legislation will greatly improve our nation\u2019s weather forecasting and allow NOAA to harness the growing potential of the commercial weather industry to save lives and property,\" said Representative Smith. \u201cI'm proud to stand behind legislation that strengthens science while simultaneously fostering new research and programs to provide critical weather data.\u201d\u00a0\r\nHighlights of H.R. 1561 as approved by the U.S. Senate:\r\nSeasonal forecasting \u2013 Directs the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its component agency the National Weather Service (NWS) to create usable, reliable, and timely subseasonal and seasonal forecasts, and determine the impact of these forecasts on a variety of other weather conditions. Through an authorization of $26.5 million out of funds appropriated to NWS through fiscal year 2018, the legislation anticipates significant improvements in usable and reliable forecasts for time periods of 2 weeks to 2 years. This improvement in forecasting would, for example, allow farmers to make more informed decisions about when and what to plant.\u00a0\r\nForecast communication \u2013 Requires the NWS to designate at least one employee in each of the established 122 weather forecast offices as the warning coordination meteorologist. Even when forecasters accurately predict dangerous weather events, preventable deaths, injuries, and property loss occur due to shortcomings in communications about what is happening and what at-risk populations should do. Warning coordination meteorologists will focus on the regional area covered by the weather forecast office and work with local officials, media, and other channels to maximize the usefulness and effectiveness of emergency communications.\r\nTornado and hurricane forecasting \u2013 Focuses on forecasting improvements and new research into extreme weather events. Establishes a tornado warning improvement and extension program for federal cooperation with private sector and academic partners to focus on developing and extending accurate tornado forecasts and warnings beyond one hour. It also creates a similar collaboration program for improving hurricane forecasting and communication of storm surges.\r\nTsunami warning \u2013 Authorizes NOAA to put tsunami sensors onto commercial and federal telecommunications cables as a cost-effective improvement to the tsunami detection network and study and research efforts of tsunamis. Also authorizes grant funding to survey for \u201cpaleotsunamis\u201d\u2014evidence of devastating waves in prehistoric times, or periods before records were kept.\u00a0 By understanding past threats, communities can prepare better for future disasters.\r\nSatellite governance \u2013 Reforms NOAA\u2019s satellite procurement efforts by requiring consideration of existing systems and the overall cost of integrating new ones. The reform comes after the agency experienced costly difficulties in integrating new equipment with current ground and space systems. The bill further requires NOAA to enter into a pilot program contract to assess the private sector\u2019s capabilities in providing weather data.\u00a0\u00a0\r\nContracting disclosures \u2013 Addresses concerns about agency employees abusing the contracting process to enrich themselves with lucrative post-retirement contracts. The bill requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to annually disclose information about full-time equivalent contractors and those who formerly worked at the agency as federal employees.\r\nThe legislation, which the House must also approve before it is sent to the White House for signature, does not propose closure of any NWS facilities. Click here for a copy of H.R. 1561, as amended by the Thune substitute and also an amendment from Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash,) added to the legislation.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/kona-international-airport-resume-international-flights", "Kona International Airport to resume international flights", "2016-12-01", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "HONOLULU  Gov. David Y. Ige and the United States Customs and Border Protection announced the re-establishment of a Federal Inspection Service (FIS) facility at the Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA). The inaugural international flight from Kona to Tokyo, Japan is scheduled to depart on Dec. 20, 2016. The flight from Tokyo to Kona is scheduled to arrive at the Kona International Airport on Dec. 21, 2016.\nThe resumption of international flights to Kona will have a wide-ranging positive impact on Hawaii Island and the state as a whole by boosting tourism spending, creating jobs and generating millions of dollars for our economy, said Gov. David Y. Ige. I especially thank our partners at U.S. Customs and Border Protection for working with us to achieve this goal. This was a top priority for my administration and I am pleased that we were able to make the Federal Inspection Service facility in Kona a reality.\nIn fulfilling our important role protecting the border and fostering lawful travel, CBP relies on strong partnerships with stakeholders. This is why we are especially grateful for the commitment of Governor Ige and the people of Hawaii to providing adequate airport inspection facilities, said Brian Humphrey, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, director, field operations. In equal good faith, CBP is committed to providing a welcoming experience to passengers in Kona while we simultaneously protect America. \nThe new FIS will benefit Hawaii in several ways. The Hawaii Department of Transportation estimates new international flights to Kona will result in more than $7 million in annual projected tax benefits. International visitors will also spend tens of millions of dollars at local businesses and attractions, further boosting the economy and generating jobs. Hawaii has seen the numbers of international travelers increase by more than one million passengers, or nearly 60 percent, since the economic downturn in 2009. The trend in international passenger arrivals in Hawaii is expected to continue to grow, enhancing the need for a second airport to accept flights from international destinations.\nThe secondary international point of entry in Kona will ease congestion at the Honolulu International Airport, especially during daily peak hours and busy travel seasons. The FIS will improve health and safety by increasing resiliency in an emergency. Should an unforeseen incident occur in Honolulu, international flights would still be able to land safely in Kona. Currently, Honolulu is the only landing option in the state for international flights.\nThe United States Department of Transportation approved Hawaiian Airlines' request to fly non-stop international flights between Kona and Haneda International Airport in Tokyo beginning in December.\nWe look forward to welcoming our Tokyo guests with our authentic Hawaiian hospitality as they enjoy the convenience of our direct flights to the spectacular Kona coast, said Peter Ingram, executive vice president and chief commercial officer for Hawaiian Airlines. We are pleased to return international flights to the Big Island and thankful to all of our government, business and community partners for their support of our newest route.\nSeveral improvements are being made to the international arrivals section at KOA, including the installation of security cameras and motion sensors, an upgraded access control system, 10 Automated Passport Control kiosks to process incoming international passengers quickly and efficiently, and refurbished restrooms.\nAfter multiple meetings and on-site visits, we finally made it across the finish line, said Sen. Brian Schatz. I thank CBP and the Obama Administration for recognizing the potential of our visitor industry and for working with the State of Hawaii, the people of Kona, and many others in state government and the hospitality industry to finally get this done.\nAfter six years of working closely with federal and state officials, and community partners to reestablish direct international flights to Kona International Airport, today's announcement is good news for Hawaii's tourism industry and the Hawaii Island economy. In particular, I want to acknowledge the efforts of Customs and Border Protection to work with the state on the Federal Inspection Service facility that made this a reality, said Sen. Mazie K. Hirono.\nToday's announcement not only positively impacts our tourism-based economy, it addresses a critical safety and security need for our state by providing a secondary international port in case of emergency,\" said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02). \"This project has been a priority of mine, and became a reality through many years of hard work by community leaders, local businesses, and county, state, and Federal government. I especially want to thank HDOT and CBP for their leadership and upholding their commitment to reopening international travel to Kona.\nRegularly scheduled international flights to Kona began in 1996 and were discontinued in October 2010.\nNews conference photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHskPGAE9b\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-urges-president-immediately-halt-dakota-access-pipeline", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Urges President to Immediately Halt Dakota Access Pipeline", "2016-12-01", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCIn a speech on the House floor Thursday, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) called on President Obama to immediately halt construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline and announced plans to  \n\tjoin thousands of veterans from across the country to stand in solidarity with the Standing Rock Sioux in North Dakota this weekend.\nFull video of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard's speech on the House floor is available here\nGrowing up in Hawaii, I learned the value of caring for our home, caring for our planet, and the basic principle that we are all connected in a great chain of cause and effect.  \n\t  \n\tThe Dakota Access Pipeline is a threat to this great balance of life. Despite strong opposition from the Standing Rock Sioux and serious concerns raised by the EPA, the Department of Interior, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and other Federal agencies, the Army Corps of Engineers approved permits to construct the Dakota Access Pipeline without adequately consulting the tribes, and without fully evaluating the potential impacts to neighboring tribal lands, sacred sites, and their water supply. Just one spill near the tribe's reservation could release thousands of barrels of crude oil, contaminating the tribe's drinking water.  \n\t  \n\tThe impact of the Dakota Access Pipeline is clear. Energy Transfer Partners, the company constructing the Dakota Pipeline, has a history of serious pipeline explosions, which have caused injury, death, and significant property damage in the past decade. The future operator of the planned pipeline, Sunoco Logistics, has had over 200 environmentally damaging oil spills in the last 6 years alonemore than any of its competitors.  \n\t  \n\tProtecting our water is not a partisan political issueit is an issue that is important to all people and all living beings everywhere. Water is life. We cannot survive without it. Once we allow an aquifer to be polluted, there is very little that can be done about it. This is why it is essential that we prevent water resources from being polluted in the first place.\nOur Founding Fathers took great inspiration from Native American forms of governance, and the democratic principles that they were founded on. Their unique form of governance was built on an agreement called the Great Law of Peace, which states that before beginning their deliberations, the council shall be obliged, and I quote, to express their gratitude to their cousins and greet them, and they shall make an address and offer thanks to the earth where men dwell, to the streams of water, the pools, the springs and the lakes, to the maize and the fruits, to the medicinal herbs and trees, to the forest trees for their usefulness, and to the Great Creator who dwells in the heavens above, who gives all the things useful to men, and who is the source and the ruler of health and life.\"\nThis recognition of our debt to the Creator and our responsibility to be responsible members of this great web of life was there from the beginning of Western democracy.  \n\t  \n\tFreedom is not a buzzword. The freedom of our Founding Fathers was not the freedom to bulldoze wherever you like.\nOur freedom is a freedom of mind, a freedom of heart, freedom to worship as we see fit, freedom from tyranny and freedom from terror. That's the freedom this country was founded on, the freedom cultivated by America's Native people, and the freedom the Standing Rock Sioux are now exercising.  \n\t  \n\tThis weekend I'm joining thousands of veterans from across the country at Standing Rock to stand in solidarity with our Native American brothers and sisters. Together we call on President Obama to immediately halt the construction of this pipeline, respect the sacred lands of the Standing Rock Sioux, and respect their right to clean water. The truth is, whether it's the threat to essential water sources in this region, the lead contaminated water in Flint, Michigan, or the threat posed to a major Hawaii aquifer by the Red Hill fuel leak, each example underscores the vital importance of protecting our water resources.  \n\t  \n\tWe can't undo history, but we must learn lessons from the past and carry them forwardto encourage cooperation among free people, to protect the sacred, to care for the Earth and for our children, and our children's children. What's at stake is our shared heritage of freedom and democracy and our shared future on this Great Turtle Island, our great United States of America.   \n\t  Background: In September, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and 18 House Democrats wrote to President Barack Obama calling on the United States Army Corps of Engineers to fulfill their responsibility of holding meaningful consultation and collaboration with the Standing Rock Sioux over the route of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Full text of the letter is available here.  \n\t\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-votes-against-increasing-big-bank-risk", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Votes Against Increasing Big Bank Risk", "2016-12-01", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCToday, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) voted against H.R.6392, legislation that puts the economic security of millions of Americans at risk. The bill would undermine capital requirements put in place on large banks after the 2008 financial crisis, and water down the independent authority of the Federal Reserve to regulate large bank risk. The bill passed the House today by a vote of 254-161.\n  Video of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard urging Members of Congress to oppose H.R.6392 is available here  \n\t\nI rise today in strong opposition to H.R. 6392, a dangerous bill that puts the economic security of millions of Americans at risk.  \n\t  \n\tLet's not forget that just 8 short years ago, the lives of Americans all across the country were shaken and devastated by the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression.  \n\t  \n\tThe livelihoods of hard-working families were put at risk, millions of Americans lost their homes and saw their life savings wiped outall because of risky banking practices and the overgrown too big to fail' banks.  \n\t  \n\tAt that time Republicans and Democrats railed against the travesty that these banks exacted on the American people  \n\t  \n\tThis bill threatens to unravel the very protections we put in place to prevent a repeat of this economic crisis. It would gut higher capital requirements on 27 banks that together hold over $4 trillion in assetsnearly a quarter of all banking system assets in the United Statesand water down the independent authority of the Federal Reserve to regulate large bank risk.    \n\t  \n\t8 years ago, the failure of large regional banks like Countrywide, Washington Mutual, and Wachoviamajor subprime mortgage lenders leading up the crisiscreated shockwaves throughout our financial system and hurt the American people. This bill would scale back the Federal Reserve's ability to regulate these banks, placing greater risk and burden on the backs of the American people.  \n\t  \n\tI urge my colleagues to stand with the people and vote against this dangerous legislation.  \n\t  Background: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has long-supported true financial reform, including a restoration of the Glass-Steagall Act, breaking up the big banks, and increased capital requirements for the nation's largest banks. She has supported legislation like the Return to Prudent Banking Act, which would reinstate provisions of the Glass-Steagall Act to keep investment banking separate from commercial banking, as well as prevent the largest banks from engaging in speculative trading.\n  \n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-announces-more-than-57-million-in-federal-funding-for-hawaiis-public-preschools", "Hirono Announces More Than $5.7 Million in Federal Funding for Hawaii’s Public Preschools", "2016-12-01", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono Announces More Than $5.7 Million in Federal Funding for Hawaii\u2019s Public Preschools\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tProgram Gives Nearly 1,000 Hawaii Preschoolers Access to Early Education\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 1, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono announced that Hawaii will receive $5.74 million in continued support under the Preschool Development Grant program, which funds high-quality preschool in Hawaii\u2019s public charter schools, including Hawaiian language immersion programs.\r\n\u201cHawaii\u2019s Preschool Development Grant makes it possible for hundreds of Hawaii students to attend preschool, which is foundational for success in school and in life,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cI will work to see that the federal government comes through on its full four-year commitment to this vital program.\u201d\r\n\u201cIt\u2019s a wonderful opportunity for public charter schools in Hawaii to expand the educational offerings available to their communities by providing high-quality preschool programs. We are thrilled that this grant will enable us to continue to provide access to families who may otherwise be unable to afford preschool for their keiki,\u201d said Sione Thompson, Executive Director of the Hawaii State Public Charter School Commission.\r\nHawaii is one of 18 states nationwide that will receive more than $247.4 million in funding to continue their work in expanding access to high-quality preschool for children from low- to moderate-income families. The funding marks the third year of Hawaii\u2019s four-year Preschool Development Grant, which Senator Hirono worked to create. The four-year grant gives nearly 1,000 Hawaii students access to early education.\r\nSenator Hirono has continued to support early childhood education and expanded access to early learning programs in Hawaii\u2019s public schools. As Lieutenant Governor, she started Pre-Plus, which established public preschool classrooms on elementary school campuses in the State. Senator Hirono is also the author of the Providing Resources Early for Kids Act, or PRE-K Act, to further promote early childhood education, which she has advocated for in Congress since 2007. Last year, Senator Hirono worked with her colleagues to ensure that robust funding for the Preschool Development Grant program was included in the Every Student Succeeds Act, which became law on December 10, 2015 and updates federal K-12 programs and policies.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-reestablishment-of-kona-federal-inspection-facility-benefits-hawaii-economy", "Hirono: Reestablishment of Kona Federal Inspection Facility Benefits Hawaii Economy", "2016-12-01", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono: Reestablishment of Kona Federal Inspection Facility Benefits Hawaii Economy\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tDirect International Flights to and from Kona to Resume on December 20\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 1, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono applauded today\u2019s announcement that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection will reestablish a Federal Inspection Services (FIS) facility at Kona International Airport.\u00a0 The FIS checkpoint allows for international visitors to fly directly to and from Kona.\u00a0\r\n\u201cAfter six years of working closely with federal and state officials, and community partners to reestablish direct international flights to Kona International Airport, today\u2019s announcement is good news for Hawaii\u2019s tourism industry and the Hawaii Island economy,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cIn particular, I want to acknowledge the efforts of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to work with the state on the Federal Inspection Service facility that made this a reality.\u201d\r\n\u201cThe resumption of international flights to Kona will have a wide-range of positive impacts on Hawaii Island and the state as a whole by boosting tourism spending, creating jobs and generating millions of dollars for our economy,\u201d said Gov. David Y. Ige. \u201cI especially thank our partners at U.S. Customs and Border Protection for working with us to achieve this goal. This was a top priority for my administration and I am pleased that we were able to make the Federal Inspection Service facility in Kona a reality.\u201d\r\n\u201cThe advocacy of Sen. Hirono and the entire Hawaii Congressional delegation was instrumental in making our Haneda-Kona route a reality,\u201d said Peter Ingram, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer for Hawaiian Airlines. \u201cWe are excited to bring back international flights to the Big Island by offering our Japanese guests convenient access to the beautiful Kona coast.\u201d\r\nHawaiian Airlines will begin three-times weekly direct service from Kona to Haneda Airport in Tokyo on December 20, 2016. Senator Hirono wrote to Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx to urge him to approve Hawaiian Airlines\u2019 application for the direct route. The U.S. Department of Transportation approved Hawaiian Airlines\u2019 application on May 13, 2016.\r\nAfter the temporary Kona FIS facility was shut down in 2010, Senator Hirono brought together top state and federal officials, and community leaders to work on establishing a permanent facility. Senator Hirono also supported legislation and advocated directly to CBP to grant the State of Hawaii the ability to reimburse the federal government for expanded service to process international travelers.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/in-the-news/op-ed-giving-voice-millions-americans-end-us-wars-intervention", "Op-Ed: Giving Voice to Millions of Americans: End U.S. Wars of Intervention", "2016-11-30", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Giving Voice to Millions of Americans: End U.S. Wars of Intervention \nBy Tulsi Gabbard\nI recently met with President-elect Donald Trump to give voice to the millions of Americans, including my fellow veterans, who desperately want to end our country's illegal, counterproductive war to overthrow the Syrian government. We had an hour-long, meaningful, back-and-forth discussion about the problems with current U.S. policy in Syria and where to go from here.\nI felt it critical to meet with him now, before warmongering neocons convince him to escalate this war that has already taken more than 400,000 lives and left millions of Syrians homeless and in search of safety for themselves and their families.\nI conveyed to the President-elect how the post-9/11 neocon agenda of interventionism and regime-change has left U.S. foreign policy absurdly disconnected from our actual security interests. Our actions to overthrow secular dictators in Iraq and Libya, and attempts now to do the same in Syria, have resulted in tremendous loss of life, failed nations, and even worse humanitarian crises while strengthening the very terrorist organizations that have declared war on America.\nSince 2011, the United Statesworking with Saudi Arabia, the Gulf States, and Turkeyhas been providing support to rebel groups fighting to overthrow the government and take over Syria. A recent New York Times article reported that these rebel groups supported by the U.S. have entered into battlefield alliances with the affiliate of al-Qaeda in Syria, formerly known as al-Nusra. How the United States can work hand-in-hand with the very terrorist organization that is responsible for the killing of 3,000 Americans on 9/11 boggles my mind and curdles my blood.\nThis absurd alliance has allowed terrorist groups like al-Qaeda to establish strongholds throughout Syria, including in Aleppo, where they are now using the civilian population as human shields and their deaths as propaganda tools. \nAdditionally, escalating this regime-change war by implementing a \"no fly/safe zone\" in Syria would not only be ineffective, it would put the U.S. in direct military confrontation with nuclear-power Russia, require tens of thousands of ground troops and a massive U.S. air presence, and commit us to yet another endless war in the Middle East that does not serve American or Syrian interests.\nIn short, even if the U.S.-Saudi alliance were successful in overthrowing the Syrian government, we would be saddled with the responsibility of building a new nation in Syria. Trillions of U.S. taxpayer dollars, and who knows how many American lives, will be lost, and there will be little to show for it. As was true in Iraq and Libya, the U.S. has no credible government or leader able to bring order, security, and freedom to the people of Syria if Assad is overthrown. To maintain order after Assads fall would require at least 500,000 troops in a never-ending occupation.\nThe most likely outcome of this regime-change war is that it will open the door for ISIS, al-Qaeda, and other terrorist groups who are the most powerful fighting forces on the ground, to take over all of Syria, amass powerful weapons (many of which will have been provided to them by the U.S.), and pose a far worse threat to the Syrian people, religious minorities, and to the world.\nThe crux of my advice to President-elect Trump was this: we must end this ill-conceived, counterproductive regime-change war immediately. We must focus our precious resources on investing in and rebuilding our own country and on defeating al-Qaeda, ISIS, and other terrorist groups that pose a threat to the American people.\n###\nCongresswoman Tulsi Gabbard is a member of the House Armed Services and Foreign Affairs Committees. She is a combat veteran of two Middle East deployments and currently serves as a Major in the Hawaii Army National Guard. She has been a leading progressive advocate for ending U.S.-led regime change wars of intervention, and has introduced legislation to end the counterproductive regime change war in Syria. She was recently re-elected to serve a third term in the U.S. House of Representatives, where she represents Hawaiis 2nd Congressional District.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-representatives-unanimously-approves-hirono-gabbard-bill-award-filipino", "House of Representatives Unanimously Approves Hirono-Gabbard Bill to Award Filipino Veterans Congressional Gold Medal", "2016-11-30", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.- The House of Representatives unanimously passed the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act (S.1555), sponsored by Senator Mazie K. Hirono and Representative Tulsi Gabbard. The U.S. Senate unanimously passed the bill in July, which recognizes Filipino soldiers who fought under U.S. command during World War II.\nFor months, we have said that time is running out to recognize Filipino World War II veterans for their brave service, said Senator Hirono. Today's House passage is the culminationof decades of work by these veterans and their families to recognize their key role in the Allied victory, and their decades-long fight for benefits.\nToday, the United States Congress took an historic step forward in honoring the more than 200,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers that served our country during World War II. With unanimous support from the United State Congress, our bill now heads to the President's desk, said Representative Gabbard. Our Filipino WWII veterans have waited decades for this recognition alongside units like the Tuskegee Airmen and Hawaii's own 442nd/100th Infantry Battalion with the Congressional Gold Medalour nation's highest civilian honor. With just 18,000 of these Filipino World War II veterans still alive today, we cannot afford to wait any longer. I urge the President to sign this bill into law before the year's end, and honor our veterans with this long-overdue recognition.\nToday is truly a great day, a significant seminal period in American history  second only to the liberation of the Philippines and surrender of the Japanese Imperial Forces on August 15, 1945, says Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (Ret), chairman of the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP). Now we can tell our veterans with pride in our hearts that this grateful nation has, at last, granted them recognition for the selfless sacrifice they endured in war, and restored their dignity and honor in service to their nation.\nFor the hundreds of thousands of Filipino and Filipino American veterans who fought courageously for our country, we celebrate Congress' passage of the Congressional Gold Medal Act and look forward to President Obama signing this legislation, said National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA) National Director Christopher Kang. We thank Senator Hirono and Representative Gabbard for their long-time leadership in recognizing our heroes. The passage of this law is significant in showing our immense gratitude for the men and women who made great sacrifices to serve our country, and awarding the highest civilian honor will ensure that history will always remember them.\nSenator Mazie Hirono and Representative Tulsi Gabbard have been instrumental in getting the Congressional Gold Medal for the World War II Filipino veterans, said Ben Acohido, Service Officer, VFW Post 1572 1st Filipino Infantry Regiment, U.S. Army, Veterans of Foreign Wars-Hawaii Chapter. Senator Hirono and Representative Gabbard's leadership is appreciated in finally getting the recognition for the veterans nearly 75 years after the attack on Pearl Harbor and Manila.\nS.1555, the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, awards the medal collectively to the over 260,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers who responded to President Roosevelt's call-to-duty and fought under the American flag during World War II. The bill now heads to the President for his signature.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/house-of-representatives-unanimously-approves-hirono-gabbard-bill-to-award-filipino-veterans-congressional-gold-medal", "House of Representatives Unanimously Approves Hirono-Gabbard Bill to Award Filipino Veterans Congressional Gold Medal", "2016-11-30", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "House of Representatives Unanimously Approves Hirono-Gabbard Bill to Award Filipino Veterans Congressional Gold Medal\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tProvides Long Overdue Recognition to Filipino World War II Veterans\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 30, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tThe House of Representatives unanimously passed the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act (S.1555), sponsored by Senator Mazie K. Hirono and Representative Tulsi Gabbard. The U.S. Senate unanimously passed the bill in July, which recognizes Filipino soldiers who fought under U.S. command during World War II.\r\n\u201cFor months, we have said that time is running out to recognize Filipino World War II veterans for their brave service,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cToday\u2019s House passage is the culmination\u00a0of decades of work by these veterans and their families to recognize their key role in the Allied victory, and their decades-long fight for benefits.\u201d\r\n\u201cToday, the United States Congress took an historic step forward in honoring the more than 200,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers that served our country during World War II. With unanimous support from the United State Congress, our bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk,\u201d said Representative Gabbard. \u201cOur Filipino WWII veterans have waited decades for this recognition alongside units like the Tuskegee Airmen and Hawaii\u2019s own 442nd/100th Infantry Battalion with the Congressional Gold Medal\u2014our nation\u2019s highest civilian honor. With just 18,000 of these Filipino World War II veterans still alive today, we cannot afford to wait any longer. I urge the President to sign this bill into law before the year\u2019s end, and honor our veterans with this long-overdue recognition.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\u201cToday is truly a great day, a significant seminal period in American history \u2013 second only to the liberation of the Philippines and surrender of the Japanese Imperial Forces on August 15, 1945,\u201d says Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (Ret), chairman of the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP). \u201cNow we can tell our veterans with pride in our hearts that this grateful nation has, at last, granted them recognition for the selfless sacrifice they endured in war, and restored their dignity and honor in service to their nation.\u201d\r\n\u201cFor the hundreds of thousands of Filipino and Filipino American veterans who fought courageously for our country, we celebrate Congress' passage of the Congressional Gold Medal Act and look forward to President Obama signing this legislation,\u201d said National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA) National Director Christopher Kang. \u201cWe thank Senator Hirono and Representative Gabbard for their long-time leadership in recognizing our heroes. The passage of this law is significant in showing our immense gratitude for the men and women who made great sacrifices to serve our country, and awarding the highest civilian honor will ensure that history will always remember them.\u201d\r\n\u201cSenator Mazie Hirono and Representative Tulsi Gabbard have been instrumental in getting the Congressional Gold Medal for the World War II Filipino veterans,\u201d said Ben Acohido, Service Officer, VFW Post 1572 1st Filipino Infantry Regiment, U.S. Army, Veterans of Foreign Wars-Hawaii Chapter. \u201cSenator Hirono and Representative Gabbard\u2019s leadership is appreciated in finally getting the recognition for the veterans nearly 75 years after the attack on Pearl Harbor and Manila.\u201d\r\nS.1555, the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, awards the medal collectively to the over 260,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers who responded to President Roosevelt\u2019s call-to-duty and fought under the American flag during World War II. The bill now heads to the President for his signature.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/gabbard-stewart-bill-expand-veterans-healthcare-passes-house", "Gabbard-Stewart Bill to Expand Veterans Healthcare Passes House", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCCongresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) released the statement below after the House unanimously passed the Veterans TRICARE Choice Act (H.R.5458). The congresswoman introduced the legislation with Rep. Chris Stewart (UT-02) in 2015. The bill expands veterans' healthcare options by allowing veterans to temporarily pause their TRICARE benefits to participate in an employer's Health Savings Account (HSA) program if they so choose. Under current federal law, it is illegal for a TRICARE-eligible veteran to participate in an HSA program.\nAs a soldier and a veteran, I have seen firsthand the tremendous sacrifice our veterans and their families make in service to our country. That service should never limit their access to quality healthcare, and the ability to make decisions about their own health, said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. The Veterans TRICARE Choice Act gives our veterans the ability to choose the best healthcare options for themselves and their families.\nVideo of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard's speech on the House floor is available here\nOur veterans deserve our most profound gratitude, said Rep. Chris Stewart. Nothing about their military service should prevent them from accessing the same benefits as their non-veteran co-workers. The very least we can do is ensure they receive the benefits we've promised them, and that the process goes as smoothly as possible. We still have a lot of work to do on that front, but the passage of this bill is a great step in the right direction.\nBackground: Health Savings Accounts have proven to be an effective way to pay for medical costs and proactively save for future medical expenses. Employees invest and save tax-free money in HSAs, which are then used to pay for qualified medical expenses. These have become increasingly popular healthcare plans in the private sector.\nUnder current federal law, it is illegal for a TRICARE-eligible veterans to participate in an HSA program. The Veterans TRICARE Choice Act simply gives veterans the choice to voluntarily pause their TRICARE benefits in order to participate in an HSA program.\nThe Veterans TRICARE Choice Act is supported by the Association of the United States Navy (AUSN) and the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS).\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-passes-gabbard-cook-bill-encouraging-employers-hire-more-veterans", "House Passes Gabbard-Cook Bill Encouraging Employers to Hire More Veterans", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCThe HIRE Vets Act (H.R.3286), introduced by Reps. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) and Paul Cook (CA-08), unanimously passed the House today. This bipartisan bill would promote private sector recruiting, hiring, and retaining of men and women who served honorably in the U.S. military through a voluntary and effective program. Specifically, it would create a medallion program recognizing the meaningful, verifiable efforts undertaken by employers  both large and small  to hire and retain veterans. This bill will now move to the Senate.\nVideo of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard's speech on the House floor is available here\nRoughly 500 veterans return to civilian life every single day, joining the more than 2.9 million veterans that have returned home since 9/11. While we've taken some important steps to encourage employers to hire more veterans, more than 400,000 veterans across the country are still unemployed today, said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Through their service, veterans develop unique skills, experiences, and leadership training that make them especially valuable to employers. The HIRE Vets Act incentivizes employers to hire veterans, and recognizes employers that provide a supportive work environment to retain veteran employees.\nBackground: The bipartisan HIRE Vets Act would promote private sector recruiting, hiring, and retaining of men and women who served honorably in the U.S. military through a voluntary and efficient program. Specifically, it would create an awards program recognizing the meaningful, verifiable efforts undertaken by employers  both large and small  to hire and retain veterans. Cook and Gabbard designed the program to be self-funded.\nThrough the U.S. Department of Labor, the HIRE Vets Act would allow businesses to display HIRE Vets Medallions on products and marketing materials. These medallions would be awarded as part of a four-tiered system  Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum  associated with specific hiring and retention goals each year.\nThe program also establishes similar tiered awards for small and mid-sized businesses with less than 500 employees. To ensure proper oversight, the Secretary of Labor would be required to provide Congress with annual reports on the success of the program with regard to veteran employment and retention results.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-tulsi-gabbard-don-young-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-givingtuesday", "Reps. Tulsi Gabbard, Don Young Introduce Bipartisan Resolution on #GivingTuesday", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCCongresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) and Congressman Don Young (AK-AL) introduced a bipartisan resolution today recognizing #GivingTuesday, a global day of charitable giving and volunteerism. #GivingTuesday, the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, begins the holiday season in the spirit of service, following widely-recognized shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The resolution recognizes that philanthropy and charitable giving transcend party divides and unite people across boundaries.\nToo often, we focus on the issues that divide us, rather than those that unite us. #GivingTuesday highlights the principles of service, volunteerism, giving back to our communities, and helping those in need, said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Every single day, each of us can choose to be of service, whether it's helping a friend or family member, caring for our community and our planet, having a positive impact on those around us, or giving our time to a cause we care about. #GivingTuesday recognizes our opportunity to put service before self and to be a force for positive change in the world.  \n\t  \n\tAs we kick off the holiday season, it's extremely important to recognize the hard work and dedication of our many service organizations and non-profits, said Congressman Don Young. Because of your tremendous support and generous donations, these organizations are able to assist countless families and communities across the nation. Alaskans are often recognized for our hospitality and goodwill, and I encourage everyone back home to take part in this special day and share what you can with your local charity or non-profit.\nBackground: #GivingTuesday was launched by the 92nd Street Y and the United Nations Foundation in 2012, and has since become a worldwide movement, harnessing the power of social media and the generosity of people around the world to bring about real change. In its first year, #GivingTuesday brought together more than 2,500 organizations in all 50 States, and it has continued to gain momentum every year since, with more than 35,000 partners in the United States and around the world.  \n\t  \n\tFull text of the resolution can be found HERE. \n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-hatch-health-tele-training-bill-passes-unanimously-in-the-senate", "Schatz, Hatch Health Tele-Training Bill Passes Unanimously in the Senate", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Schatz, Hatch Health Tele-Training Bill Passes Unanimously in the Senate \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 29, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i) and Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) issued the following statements after the Expanding Capacity for Health Outcomes (ECHO) Act, legislation they introduced, passed in the Senate by a vote of 97-0. This legislation will increase access to high-quality health care in hard-to-reach regions.\u201cWe\u2019re now one step closer to supporting new ways to train health providers and deliver health care,\u201d\u00a0said Senator Schatz, a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education.\u00a0\u201cTechnology is changing the way medical professionals connect with each other and their patients.\u00a0 Our bill capitalizes on this technology to give health professionals in hard-to-reach areas the specialized training they need and help them reach more patients.\u201d\u201cOn a recent visit to southern Utah,\u00a0I\u00a0had the opportunity to visit a rural health center and speak to some of the\u00a0families\u00a0that rely\u00a0on services included in the ECHO Act,\u201d Senator Hatch said.\u00a0\u201cSome of these individuals had health conditions that required specialized care or could be managed much closer to home by health professionals they know and trust.\u00a0By using technology to connect patients and providers, this bill will benefit Utah\u2019s families by helping them receive the care they need, when they need it. \u00a0I\u2019m grateful for the valuable input Utah\u2019s health leaders have provided in crafting this\u00a0proposal.\u201d\u00a0Statements of Support Kelley Withy, MD, PhD, Director of the Hawai\u2018i/Pacific Basin Area Health Education Center, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii   \u201cECHO has been helping dozens of providers a month better understand behavioral health situations, geriatric cases, dementia sequelae and endocrine implications. It will be really helpful to the State to expand the offerings, and even to include mainland and Pacific groups as well.\u201dDr. Barbara McAneny, Immediate Past Chair of the American Medical Association:   \u201cProject ECHO is bridging geographic divides to connect physicians and experts with patients in underserved, rural areas. An exemplary model of using new technologies to improve patient care, Project ECHO has potential to bolster access to specialists, reduce incidence of chronic disease, and rein in costs through reduced travel and fewer ER visits. The AMA believes the ECHO Act would provide policymakers with critical information to expand such models to improve clinical practice.\u201dDan Hawkins,\u00a0Senior VP, Public Policy and Research,\u00a0National Association of Community Health Centers:   \u201cThe Expanding Connectivity for Health Outcomes (ECHO) Act is a bipartisan and innovative response to the need to connect primary care providers to specialists in rural and underserved areas. \u00a0Because health centers are all located in medically underserved urban and rural areas or serve medically underserved populations, they\u00a0regularly become the medical home for patients with complex needs and chronic conditions.\u00a0 This need is often amplified in rural areas which may have higher rates of chronic diseases and less access to specialty providers. By connecting specialists with primary care providers, the Project ECHO model allows for patients to access quality care close to home and creates opportunities for primary care physicians to manage complex needs in their own health centers. We applaud the efforts of Senator Hatch and Senator Schatz to examine the use of, and opportunities to use, technology-enabled collaborative learning and capacity building models, such as Project ECHO, to improve patient care and provider education.\u201dDr. Sanjeev Arora, M.D., Founder and Director, Project ECHO, University of New Mexico School of Medicine:   \u201cMedical knowledge is exploding, but it\u2019s often not traveling the last mile to ensure that patients get the right care in the right place at the right time. If we can leverage technology to spread best practices through case-based learning and mentoring of providers, we can move knowledge \u2013 instead of patients \u2013 to get better care to rural and underserved communities across the country.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0BackgroundRural Health Challenges\r\n \r\nOnly about 10 percent of physicians practice in rural areas of the United States despite nearly one-fourth of the population living in these areas.\u00a0\r\nRural areas have higher rates of some chronic diseases and face many challenges, including transportation, connectivity, and isolation.\r\nIt is difficult to recruit health care providers to work in rural and underserved areas, and opportunities for professional development and support in such areas can be difficult.\r\n \r\n   Project ECHO Model\r\n \r\nProject Extension for Community Health Outcomes (ECHO) is an innovative continuing medical education model that uses interactive videoconferencing to link specialist teams (\u201chubs\u201d) with primary care providers (\u201cspokes\u201d) in rural and underserved areas. Together, they participate in weekly teleECHO clinics that combine didactic teaching with mentoring and case-based learning.\r\nDemonstrated uses of Project ECHO have been numerous and include:\r\n\r\nAddressing disease conditions and topic areas, including hepatitis C, integrated addictions and psychiatry, chronic pain/headache management, and diabetes;\r\nA complex care program offering support to multidisciplinary teams providing primary and behavioral health care to high-need, high-cost patients; and\r\nPublic health interventions, including addressing H1N1, HIV, and tuberculosis as well as improving health and wellness within Native American populations.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n   Benefits of Project ECHO model for:\r\n \r\nPatients: Improved access to quality and accessible care, with high-patient satisfaction\r\nProviders: Increased knowledge for providers in rural/underserved areas, with ability to serve as a local resource; improved provider network; enhanced professional satisfaction and reduced isolation; more access to specialists.\r\nHealth care system: Higher retention of providers in rural/underserved areas; better care delivered in the right place at the right time by the right person; decreased costs (less travel for specialty visits, less hospitalizations and ER visits, better quality of care close to home, and treatment of chronic diseases earlier before complications arise).\r\nCurrent health care challenges: Project ECHO has successfully been used to increase the number of physicians able to prescribe buprenorphine for opioid abuse, to quickly educate health providers on public health crises such as H1N1, and to train providers to address complex mental health disorders.\r\n \r\n   The Enhancing Capacity for Health Outcomes (ECHO) Act:\r\n \r\nThe ECHO Act aims to better integrate the Project ECHO model\u2014referred to as a \u201ctechnology-enabled collaborative learning and capacity-building model\u201d\u2014into health systems across the country. \u00a0The bill does the following:\r\n\r\nRequires the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in collaboration with the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), to prioritize analysis of the model, its impacts on provider capacity and workforce issues, and evidence of its effects on quality of patient care.\r\nRequests a GAO report regarding opportunities for increased adoption of such models, efficiencies and potential cost savings from such models, ways to improve health care through such models, and field recommendations to advance the use of such models.\r\nRequires the HHS Secretary to submit a report to Congress on the findings of the GAO report and the HHS report, including ways such models have been funded by HHS and how to integrate these models into current funding streams and innovative grant proposals.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-gabbard-announce-house-vote-filipino-veterans-congressional-gold-medal", "Hirono, Gabbard Announce House Vote on Filipino Veterans Congressional Gold Medal Bill", "2016-11-28", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCSenator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI-02) announced today the House will vote on legislation to award WWII Filipino Veterans the Congressional Gold Medal. The bill unanimously passed the Senate in July, and is scheduled for a vote in the House on Wednesday, November 30. Should the bill pass the House, it will be sent to the President to be signed in to law.  \n\t  \n\tThis week, Congress will take the next step to recognize the brave and courageous service of Filipino World War II veterans like Domingo Los Banos from Kauai, said Senator Mazie Hirono. This Veterans Day, I joined Domingo aboard the USS Missouri to recount how these veterans were instrumental to our victory in the Pacific, but had to fight for decades to receive the benefits they earned. The unanimous support this bill earned in the Senate and the overwhelming backing it has in the House honors the sacrifice so many of these veterans made for our country.  \n\t  \n\tThis week, the House will take a historic vote to honor our Filipino World War II veterans with the Congressional Gold Medalour highest civilian honor. These loyal and courageous soldiers suffered, fought, and gave up their lives alongside their American counterparts throughout the war, and have waited decades for their service to be recognized. They cannot afford to wait any longer, said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. It has been an honor to personally get to know some of these veterans and their families, and to hear them humbly tell their courageous stories of service. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting to pass this timely legislation, and to honor our veterans with this long-overdue recognition.   \n\t  Background: Senator Mazie Hirono and Rep. Tulsi Gabbard introduced the Filipino Veterans of WWII Congressional Gold Medal Act in 2015, and have worked together toward the bill's final passage. The legislation acknowledges the more than 200,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers who responded to President Roosevelt's call-to-duty and fought under the American flag against the Imperial Forces of Japan during World War II. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor bestowed by the U.S Congress.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-gabbard-announce-house-vote-on-filipino-veterans-congressional-gold-medal-bill", "Hirono, Gabbard Announce House Vote on Filipino Veterans Congressional Gold Medal Bill", "2016-11-28", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono, Gabbard Announce House Vote on Filipino Veterans Congressional Gold Medal Bill\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 28, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI-02) announced today the House will vote on legislation to award WWII Filipino Veterans the Congressional Gold Medal. The bill unanimously passed the Senate in July, and is scheduled for a vote in the House on Wednesday, November 30. Should the bill pass the House, it will be sent to the President to be signed in to law.\r\n\u201cThis week, Congress will take the next step to recognize the brave and courageous service of Filipino World War II veterans like Domingo Los Banos from Kaua?i,\u201d said Senator Mazie Hirono. \u201cThis Veterans Day, I joined Domingo aboard the USS Missouri to recount how these veterans were instrumental to our victory in the Pacific, but had to fight for decades to receive the benefits they earned. The unanimous support this bill earned in the Senate and the overwhelming backing it has in the House honors the sacrifice so many of these veterans made for our country.\u201d\r\n\u201cThis week, the House will take a historic vote to honor our Filipino World War II veterans with the Congressional Gold Medal\u2014our highest civilian honor. These loyal and courageous soldiers suffered, fought, and gave up their lives alongside their American counterparts throughout the war, and have waited decades for their service to be recognized. They cannot afford to wait any longer,\u201d said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. \u201cIt has been an honor to personally get to know some of these veterans and their families, and to hear them humbly tell their courageous stories of service. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting to pass this timely legislation, and to honor our veterans with this long-overdue recognition.\u201d \u00a0\u00a0\r\nBackground: Senator Mazie Hirono and Rep. Tulsi Gabbard introduced the Filipino Veterans of WWII Congressional Gold Medal Act in 2015, and have worked together toward the bill's final passage. The legislation acknowledges the more than 200,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers who responded to President Roosevelt\u2019s call-to-duty and fought under the American flag against the Imperial Forces of Japan during World War II. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor bestowed by the U.S Congress.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/senate-sends-thune-schatz-legislation-protecting-consumer-reviews-to-president", "Senate Sends Thune-Schatz Legislation Protecting Consumer Reviews to President", "2016-11-28", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Sends Thune-Schatz Legislation Protecting Consumer Reviews to President \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t Bipartisan Proposal Put Forward by Thune, Schatz, and Moran Outlaws Abusive \u201cGag Clauses\u201d \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 28, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON \u2013 The U.S. Senate today, by unanimous consent, sent bicameral legislation to the White House for the President\u2019s signature that will outlaw the use of \u201cgag clauses\u201d in non-negotiable form contracts. Some businesses have attracted national scrutiny for using gag clauses to punish or silence honest criticism of products and services. The sponsors of the Senate version released the following statements:\r\n\u201cReviews on where to shop, eat, or stay on websites like Yelp or TripAdvisor help consumers make informed choices about where to spend their money. Every consumer has the right to share their honest experiences and opinions of any business without the fear of legal retaliation, and the passage of our bill brings us one step closer to protecting that right,\u201d said Internet Subcommittee Ranking Member Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i).\r\n\u201cBy ending gag clauses, this legislation supports consumer rights and the integrity of critical feedback about products and services sold online. I appreciate the bipartisan efforts of my Senate and House colleagues to get this legislation over the finish line,\u201d said Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.).\r\n\u201cJust as word of mouth is used by family and friends to share experiences with particular brands or businesses, online reviews have significant benefits to consumers in their purchasing decisions. I\u2019m pleased this legislation will now be sent to the president\u2019s desk. It will help make certain consumers in Kansas and across the country are able to make their voices heard without fear of lawsuits or financial repercussions for honest feedback,\u201d said Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance, and Data Security Subcommittee Chairman Jerry Moran (R-Kan.).\r\nThe Commerce Committee held a hearing on gag clauses on November 4, 2015, featuring testimony from Ms. Jen Palmer, a plaintiff in Palmer v. KlearGear, where a company demanded the removal of a negative online review or payment of $3,500 in fines because the online merchant\u2019s terms of service included a non-disparagement clause. When the review was not taken down, the company reported the unpaid $3,500 to a credit reporting agency as an outstanding debt, which negatively impacted the Palmers\u2019 credit.\r\nThune, Schatz, and Moran introduced S. 2044, the Consumer Review Freedom Act, in September 2015, and the Senate passed the measure unanimously last year. The Senate today approved the companion House version, H.R. 5111, introduced by Rep. Lance Leonard (R-N.J.) and Rep. Joseph Kennedy III (D-Mass.) earlier this year. Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) and Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) also sponsored an earlier House companion version of the legislation, H.R. 2110, to outlaw gag clauses.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-increase-seniors-access-to-shingles-vaccine", "Hirono Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Increase Seniors’ Access to Shingles Vaccine", "2016-11-22", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Increase Seniors\u2019 Access to Shingles Vaccine\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t1 in 3 Americans Will Develop Shingles in Their Lifetime\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 22, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenators Mazie K. Hirono and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) introduced the bipartisan Protecting Seniors through Immunization Act (S.3477) \u00a0to increase seniors\u2019 access to the shingles vaccine. Seniors are at a greater risk of developing shingles. Shingles is a painful rash and sufferers are at risk for developing more serious complications.\r\n\u201cSeniors in Hawaii and across the country, including millions on a fixed income, deserve the protection from the shingles virus regardless of their ability to pay for a vaccine. This bill, which I am proud to introduce with Senator Capito, provides these seniors access to the shingles vaccine without having to worry about high out of pocket costs,\u201d said Senator Hirono.\r\n\u201cWith roughly one million new cases emerging across the country each year, it is important that West Virginians have access to treatment that protects against shingles,\u201d\u00a0said Senator Capito. \u201cI\u2019m glad to partner with Senator Hirono to introduce this bill, which will make it easier for seniors, who face a greater risk of battling this painful disease, to receive the vaccines they need.\u201d\r\n\u201cThe Adult Vaccine Access Coalition (AVAC) endorses the Shingles Prevention Act, which would eliminate out-of-pocket shingles vaccine costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries and ensure that they receive important information about Medicare vaccine coverage,\u201d said Laura Hanson, co-chair of AVAC. \u201cLess than 30 percent of Americans over the age of 60 have received a shingles vaccine; this bill addresses two of the biggest barriers\u2014cost and lack of awareness\u2014that prevent more Americans from accessing it.\u00a0As a diverse health coalition\u00a0devoted\u00a0exclusively to increasing adult vaccine rates, AVAC applauds Senators Hirono and Moore Capito for their leadership on this bill.\u201d\r\nThe Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that seniors over 60 receive the shingles vaccine. However, because of high out of pocket Medicare costs, only about a quarter of seniors get vaccinated. The Protecting Seniors through Immunization Act provides the shingles vaccine free of charge for Medicare Part D beneficiaries, and improves outreach on the importance of getting vaccinated.\u00a0\r\nThe Protecting Seniors through Immunization Act is supported by 23 organizations including the American College of Preventative Medicine, the Infectious Diseases Society of America, and the National Council of Asian Pacific Islander Physicians.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/gabbard-statement-meeting-president-elect-donald-trump", "Gabbard Statement on Meeting with President-Elect Donald Trump", "2016-11-21", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "New York, NY\u2014U.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today released the following statement on her meeting with President-elect Donald Trump regarding Syria:\n\"President-elect Trump asked me to meet with him about our current policies regarding Syria, our fight against terrorist groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS, as well as other foreign policy challenges we face. I felt it important to take the opportunity to meet with the President-elect now before the drumbeats of war that neocons have been beating drag us into an escalation of the war to overthrow the Syrian government\u2014a war which has already cost hundreds of thousands of lives and forced millions of refugees to flee their homes in search of safety for themselves and their families.\n\u201cWhile the rules of political expediency would say I should have refused to meet with President-elect Trump, I never have and never will play politics with American and Syrian lives.\n\u201cServing the people of Hawai\u02bbi and our nation is an honor and responsibility that I do not take lightly. \u00a0Representing the aloha spirit and diversity of the people of Hawai\u02bbi, I will continue to seek common ground to deliver results that best serve all Americans, as I have tried to do during my time in Congress.\n\u201cWhere I disagree with President-elect Trump on issues, I will not hesitate to express that disagreement. \u00a0However, I believe we can disagree, even strongly, but still come together on issues that matter to the American people and affect their daily lives. We cannot allow continued divisiveness to destroy our country.\n\u201cPresident-elect Trump and I had a frank and positive conversation in which we discussed a variety of foreign policy issues in depth. I shared with him my grave concerns that escalating the war in Syria by implementing a so-called no fly/safe zone would be disastrous for the Syrian people, our country, and the world. It would lead to more death and suffering, exacerbate the refugee crisis, strengthen ISIS and al-Qaeda, and bring us into a direct conflict with Russia which could result in a nuclear war. We discussed my bill to end our country\u2019s illegal war to overthrow the Syrian government, and the need to focus our precious resources on rebuilding our own country, and on defeating al-Qaeda, ISIS, and other terrorist groups who pose a threat to the American people.\n\u201cFor years, the issue of ending interventionist, regime change warfare has been one of my top priorities. This was the major reason I ran for Congress\u2014I saw firsthand the cost of war, and the lives lost due to the interventionist warmongering policies our country has pursued for far too long.\n\u201cLet me be clear, I will never allow partisanship to undermine our national security when the lives of countless people lay in the balance.\"\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-denounces-top-trump-surrogates-comments-to-use-japanese-american-internment-as-precedent-for-muslim-registry", "Hirono Denounces Top Trump Surrogate’s Comments to Use Japanese American Internment as Precedent for Muslim Registry", "2016-11-17", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono Denounces Top Trump Surrogate\u2019s Comments to Use Japanese American Internment as Precedent for Muslim Registry\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 17, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono released the following statement in response to top Trump surrogate Carl Higbie\u2019s remarks that the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II should be used as precedent for the creation of a Muslim registry:\r\n\u201cThe internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II was a historic injustice and nothing like it should ever happen again,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cThe protection of our Constitution is not conditional; it applies to all of us. We cannot allow hate speech, racism, and anti-immigrant sentiment to become the new norm in our country, and we must continue to speak out against hate and prejudice. An inclusive and vibrant America is worth fighting for.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-using-japanese-american-internment-as-precedent-is-immoral-and-must-be-rejected-by-all-americans", "Schatz: Using Japanese American Internment as Precedent is Immoral and Must be Rejected by All Americans", "2016-11-17", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Schatz: Using Japanese American Internment as Precedent is Immoral and Must be Rejected by All Americans \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 17, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t  WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i) issued the following statement in response to Carl Higbie\u2019s comments on Fox News\u2019 \u201cThe Kelly File\u201d that World War II-era Japanese American internment camps could be used as \u201cprecedent\u201d for a Muslim registry.\u00a0\r\n\u201cThe internment of Japanese Americans was a dark chapter in our history.\u00a0 We should remember it and never repeat the same injustice. \u00a0Any suggestion that the classification of thousands of Japanese, Germans, and Italians during the World War II as \u2018enemy aliens\u2019 should be used as a precedent is immoral and must be rejected by all Americans.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/uh-professor-dr-chien-wen-tseng-md-appointed-to-the-us-preventive-services-task-force", "UH Professor, Dr. Chien-Wen Tseng, M.D., Appointed to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force", "2016-11-16", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "UH Professor, Dr. Chien-Wen Tseng, M.D., Appointed to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t Nominated by Schatz, Dr. Tseng Will Be the First Physician from Hawai\u2018i to Serve on National Health Care Task Force \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 16, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i), a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, issued the following statement after University of Hawai\u2018i professor, Dr. Chien-Wen Tseng M.D., M.P.H., M.S.E.E., was appointed to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Senator Schatz nominated Dr. Tseng for appointment to the task force.\r\n\u201cI congratulate Dr. Tseng on this appointment and for making history as the first physician from Hawai\u2018i to serve in this role,\u201d said Senator Schatz. \u201cThe task force will be well served by her years of clinical, research, and policy experience, and I\u2019m proud to have nominated her for this esteemed position.\u201d\r\nMembers of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force offer their judgement to help develop evidence-based recommendations for preventive services like counseling, screening, and medication.\u00a0 The independent panel\u2019s members are made up of experts in preventive medicine and primary care and serve 4-year terms.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-tulsi-gabbard-statement-passing-rep-clift-tsuji", "Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard Statement on the Passing of Rep. Clift Tsuji", "2016-11-15", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCCongresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) released the following statement today after the passing of Hawaii State House Representative Clift Tsuji:\nToday, Hawaii lost a dedicated public servant. Born and raised in Papaikou, Representative Clift Tsuji served the people of Hawaii Island throughout his life. After graduating from Hilo High School, Rep. Tsuji served as a U.S. Army Reservist with the 442nd Infantry out of Hilo, and continued to serve Hawaii Island in various community organizations, as a successful businessman, and as a representative for the people of Keaukaha, Panaewa, Waiakea, and parts of Hilo. As chair of the House Agriculture Committee, Rep. Tsuji helped champion legislation to fight invasive species and strengthen our biosecurity. I saw Rep. Tsuji recently at the Hilo Veterans Parade and, as usual, he was full of aloha, as he welcomed me to the community he loved so much. Today, my heart is with Rep. Tsuji's family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.\"\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-encourages-opportunities-veterans-technology", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Encourages Opportunities for Veterans in Technology", "2016-11-15", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DCRep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02), co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Future Caucus and of the Diversifying Tech Caucus, delivered opening remarks at the congressional briefing Veteran Readiness in Technology: Preparing Veterans for the 21st Century Economy, hosted by the Millennial Action Project, Engine, TwinLogic Strategies, and Amazon. The congresswoman spoke about how veterans are largely underrepresented in the rapidly growing technology industry, and about the importance of empowering veterans as they transition to civilian life. Following opening remarks, expert panelists discussed the current challenges transitioning service members and veterans face during their path towards a career in technology, and opportunities for veterans and servicemembers in the 21st century tech economy.\nRoughly 500 veterans return to civilian life every day, bringing with them unique experiences and skills from their military service. Our veterans are natural leaders, trained to make decisions under pressure, work together as a team, and accomplish the mission at hand, said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Veterans have been largely underrepresented in the tech community, making up just 2% the sector that drives much of our economic innovation across the country. Ensuring our veterans have access to training and opportunities that set them up for success in the 21st century tech economy is good for our economy, good for our tech industry, good for our country, and good for our veterans. \nBackground: Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard has introduced legislation like the Veterans' Entry to Apprenticeship Act, to enable veterans to use their GI Bill benefits for apprenticeship programs in the skilled-trade industry, as well as the HIRE Vets Act to incentivize employers to hire and retain veterans.\nThe photos below are available here for download\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-statement-on-the-passing-of-state-representative-clift-tsuji", "Hirono Statement on the Passing of State Representative Clift Tsuji", "2016-11-15", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono Statement on the Passing of State Representative Clift Tsuji\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 15, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono released the following statement on the passing of Hawaii State Representative Clift Tsuji:\r\n\u201cClift Tsuji represented the Hilo community that he grew up in, and his drive to build a better future was evident by his actions. Clift brought a wealth of experience and over 30 years of business acumen to the Hawaii State House of Representatives. His voice on behalf of agriculture across the state will be missed. I considered Clift a friend, and my thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-passing-of-clift-tsuji", "Schatz Statement on Passing of Clift Tsuji", "2016-11-15", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Schatz Statement on Passing of Clift Tsuji \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 15, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i) issued the following statement on the passing of state Representative Clift Tsuji.\u201cMy deepest condolences to the family and many friends of Representative Clift Tsuji.\u00a0 Rep. Tsuji was low-key in style but a firm fighter for the needs of the people of the Big Island.\u00a0 He will be especially remembered for his advocacy of agriculture and its essential role in the economy and culture of Hawai\u2018i.\u00a0 Clift was earnest, hard-working, and always had a kind word for people.\u00a0 He will be greatly missed.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://hanabusa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-colleen-hanabusa-sworn-into-office", "Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa Sworn into Office", "2016-11-14", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Colleen Hanabusa", "H001050", "hanabusa.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S.Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa was sworn in as a Member of the United States House of Representatives by House Speaker Paul Ryan on November 14, 2016.\nThe Honorable Colleen Hanabusa was elected to serve as Representative of Hawaii\u2019s 1st Congressional District. Representative Hanabusa was added to the rolls of the House upon executing the oath of office.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/-hawaii-to-receive-federal-funding-for-homeless-veterans-housing-program", "Hawaii to Receive Federal Funding for Homeless Veterans Housing Program", "2016-11-14", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hawaii to Receive Federal Funding for Homeless Veterans Housing Program \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 14, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON\u00a0\u2013\u00a0U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i), a member of the Appropriations Committee and the Subcommittees on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs announced that the U.S. Departments of Housing and Urban Development and Veterans Affairs awarded $330,960 to the Hawai\u2018i Public Housing Authority to help provide housing for 35 homeless veterans in our state.\r\n\u201cOne of the most basic obligations that we have to those who served our country is ensuring that each and every one of them has a roof over their head when they come home,\u201d said Senator Schatz. \u201cAs a state and as a nation, we have a moral, social, and financial obligation to fulfill that promise.\u00a0 These funds will help veterans who are struggling to find a home get access to the financial assistance and counseling services they need so that they can have a place to call their own.\u201d\r\nThis funding will provide up to 35 new affordable housing units for homeless and vulnerable veterans at the Hale Uhiwai Nalu development in Kapolei. Social services such as career and family counseling will also available to residents.\u00a0\r\nAccording to the 2016 Statewide Point-In-Time Count, homelessness among veterans has declined by 3% statewide and 12% on Oahu compared to 2015. In an effort to decrease homelessness among veterans, Honolulu participated in the 25 Cities Initiative, a joint effort by the Departments of Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, and the U.S. Interagency on Homelessness, and local community partners to reduce veteran homelessness.\r\nAs a member of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Schatz has continuously supported funding for the Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program, homeless assistance grants, and other affordable housing programs.\r\nThe HUD-VASH funding announced today is in addition to a $1.25 million allotment received by the state in May to provide affordable housing to more than 110 homeless veterans. The combined $1.5 million in HUD-VASH funding is supporting more than 145 housing vouchers to help homeless veterans offset the cost of rental housing as well as provide them with counseling services.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/on-veterans-day-hirono-renews-call-for-house-to-pass-bill-honoring-filipino-world-war-ii-veterans-", "On Veterans Day, Hirono Renews Call for House to Pass Bill Honoring Filipino World War II Veterans", "2016-11-11", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On Veterans Day, Hirono Renews Call for House to Pass Bill Honoring Filipino World War II Veterans \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tHirono: It Has Been Four Months Since the Senate Passed this Bill\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 11, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono spoke at the USS Missouri Memorial on Veterans Day. Her remarks focused on the contributions and sacrifices made by Filipino soldiers who answered President Franklin Roosevelt\u2019s call and fought alongside U.S. soldiers in World War II.\r\nSenator Hirono has spearheaded efforts, along with Filipino advocacy groups in Hawaii and across the country, to award the Congressional Gold Medal collectively to these Filipino veterans.\r\n\u201cIt has been four months since the Senate passed this bill,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cI have sent a letter to the House leadership asking them to schedule this bill for passage when the House returns for the Lame Duck session. When the House passes this bill, it will go directly to the President for his signature. Time is of the essence, since every day that goes by we are losing more of these veterans.\u201d\r\nSenator Hirono is the lead sponsor of S.1555, which would award the Congressional Gold Medal to the Filipino World War II veterans, which unanimously passed the Senate on July 13, 2016 and is awaiting House action.\r\n\r\nSenator Hirono speaks with Filipino World War II veteran Domingo Los Banos (center) and other veterans at the USS Missouri Memorial", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-veterans-day2016", "Schatz Statement on Veterans Day", "2016-11-11", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Schatz Statement on Veterans Day \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 11, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tHONOLULU\u00a0\u2013\u00a0U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i) issued the following statement in honor of Veterans Day. Senator Schatz will spend part of Veterans Day attending the Oahu Veterans Council\u2019s Veterans Day ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.\u00a0\r\n\u201cOn this Veterans Day, we honor the dedication and sacrifice of our veterans and their families. Less than one percent of Americans shoulder the immense responsibility of defending our nation. \u00a0They have never hesitated to answer the call when our country has needed them\u00a0and for that we are forever grateful. Today and every day we show our respect and gratitude for their courage, sacrifice, and\u00a0perseverance in the face of adversity. \u00a0To the more than 120,000 veterans who call Hawai\u2018i home,\u00a0we extend a special aloha\u00a0and hope each one of you will feel the gratitude of a thankful nation. Please join me today by thanking our veterans for their service.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-the-fccs-letter-to-atandt", "Schatz Statement on the FCC's Letter to AT", "2016-11-10", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Brian Schatz", "S001194", "www.schatz.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Schatz Statement on the FCC's Letter to AT&T \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 10, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tHONOLULU\u00a0\u2013\u00a0U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet,\u00a0issued the following statement in response to the Federal Communications Commission\u2019s letter to AT&T raising questions about their zero rating practices implemented through the company\u2019s sponsored data plan. \u00a0\r\n\u201cI support the FCC\u2019s approach to reviewing each of these zero rating practices on a case-by-case basis because in many instances they provide benefits to consumers. The expert agency is best positioned to examine these practices to determine if they empower consumers or jeopardize a free and open internet for all.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-celebrates-100th-anniversary-of-national-park-service-at-hawaii-volcanoes-national-park", "Hirono Celebrates 100th Anniversary of National Park Service at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park", "2016-11-07", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono Celebrates 100th Anniversary of National Park Service at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 7, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\r\nSenator Mazie K. Hirono marked the 100th anniversary of America\u2019s National Parks at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii Island. The Senator presented Hawaii fourth graders with Every Kid in a Park program passes, which provide free admission to National Parks for fourth graders nationwide to encourage exploration and learning.\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cAs we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Every Kid in a Park program promotes a lifelong appreciation for our environment and natural resources,\u201d said Senator Hirono.\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cSenator Hirono is a dedicated advocate of education for Hawaii youth, and fully embraces Every Kid in a Park,\u201d said Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando. \u201cThe Kau students who hiked with her today not only met one of Hawaii\u2019s senators, but were able to spend quality time outdoors with someone who truly advocates for our keiki and national parks.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\nEarlier this year, the Senate unanimously approved Senator Hirono\u2019s resolution commemorating the 100th anniversary of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Haleakala National Park.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/photos-video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-congratulates-service-member-graduates-honors", "PHOTOS & VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Congratulates Service Member Graduates, Honors Veterans of Foreign Wars", "2016-11-05", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HILeading up to Veterans Day Week, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) spent the day recognizing the service, sacrifice, and accomplishments of active duty service members and veterans of foreign wars at events on Oahu. This morning, she delivered congratulatory remarks to 48 men and women currently serving in the Army, Navy, and Air Force who just earned their degrees in higher education. She then presented the graduates with honorary certificates. The congresswoman connected with the service members, sharing her own experiences of earning her bachelor's degree in challenging conditions while serving on her Middle East deployment.  \n\t  \n\tCongresswoman Tulsi Gabbard delivered keynote remarks to over 300 veterans at the Annual Western Region Veterans of Foreign Wars and Auxiliary Conference. She thanked them for their service and sacrifice and spoke strongly about her commitment to fight for the benefits and care that they were promised, have earned, and deserve. She highlighted the recent atrocities in the DOD's attempts to claw back bonuses received in good faith by California National Guardsmen. She applauded veterans continuing their mission of service even after they lay down the uniform as they enter the civilian workforce, take on new leadership and mentorship roles, and volunteer in their communities.  \n\t  \n\tThere are too many misperceptions that persist with regards to post-traumatic stress or other challenges that some of our brothers and sisters are dealing with as they make this transition from the military to civilian world, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a twice-deployed Major in the Hawaii Army National Guard. We need to change this culture to one in our society where employers and leaders in our community go first to our veterans to employ them, to serve in positions of leadership, to make a difference in our communities, recognizing that our brothers and sisters in uniform are the best equipped to lead, knowing what it means to be a member of a team, to make decisions under pressure, to put service before self, and to always stay focused on the missionnever accepting failure, never accepting defeat.  \n\t  \n\tEnsuring that each of you, my brothers and sisters in arms, get the respect that you deserve, that you get the care, the services, and the benefits that you have earned through your service and that you're entitled to, and that you are honored and recognized for the sacrifices that you and your loved ones have made for your countrythis is what guides the work that I do every day in Congress.\nB-roll and excerpts from Rep. Tulsi Gabbard's keynote address at the VFW Conference are available here.  \n\t  Click the images below to download photos from the VFW Conference (1-3) and the Education Recognition Ceremony (4-6).\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-criminal-justice-reform-horizon", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard: Criminal Justice Reform Is On The Horizon", "2016-11-04", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HIAddressing the Academy of Architecture for Justice Conference today, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) discussed the unprecedented bipartisan momentum behind criminal justice reform. The Congresswoman spoke about wide-ranging support in Congress for measures like the Recidivism Risk Reduction Act (H.R.759), the Sentencing Reform Act (H.R.3713), and the SAFE Justice Reinvestment Act (H.R.2944), and discussed her continued work to push these measures forward before the year's end. She also discussed how successful local initiatives like veteran treatment courts, the Hawaii Opportunity Probation with Enforcement (HOPE) model, and State Juvenile Justice Hoopono Mamo Civil Citation Initiative are being used as justice reform models and being replicated in states across the country.  \n\t  \n\tOur broken criminal justice system is perpetuating inequality and tearing apart families across the country. As soaring costs continue to drain our local, state, and national resources, over 40% of people released from prison return within 3 years. It's clear our current system is not working, said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Criminal justice reform is a rare exception to the divisive partisanship of Congress, uniting lawmakers and organizers on both sides of the aisle. Momentum in Congress is stronger than ever before, and we need all hands working toward passing widely-supported reforms like the SAFE Justice Act and Sentencing Reform Act before the end of the year.   \n\t  Background: This is the first year that the Academy of Architecture for Justice Conference, hosted by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), has been held in Hawaii. Attendees included more than 200 top planners and designers of justice facilities across the country, as well as from Mexico, Canada, and Australia. The four-day conference is focused on sharing and developing best practices for justice architecture, including sustainable courts, detention and correction facilities, and public safety facilities. Click here more information.   \n\t  \n\tRep. Tulsi Gabbard is a cosponsor of bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation including the Recidivism Risk Reduction Act (H.R.759), the Sentencing Reform Act (H.R.3713), and the SAFE Justice Reinvestment Act (H.R.2944). Both H.R.759 and H.R.3713 have been reported out of committee, and are strongly supported by lawmakers in both parties.\nThe photos below are available here for download\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-statement-implementation-paris-climate-agreement", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Statement on Implementation of Paris Climate Agreement", "2016-11-04", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HIRep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) released the statement below on the Paris Climate Agreement, which goes into effect today:  \n\t  \n\tOur future and the future of every generation to come depend on the health of our planet. The Paris Climate Agreement marks the first universal, legally-binding commitment to reduce carbon emissions and promote clean energy. It requires every nation to do their part by taking steps to reduce carbon pollution and share responsibility for the future of our planet. That being said, by no means is this a cure-all solution.  \n\t  \n\tWe must ensure that our path forward benefits both our planet and our people. Millions of workers around the world, including in the United States, rely on the energy industry to put food on the table. Investing in renewable energy and sustainable jobs, as well as transitional training, will help to ensure these workers are not left behind. In fact, they are critical to the success of our future. The United States must lead by examplealong with aggressively reducing our carbon pollution, we must commit to investing in clean energy research and development, promote the growth of green jobs at home, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and empower our workers to succeed in a new generation of clean energy.  \n\t  Background: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is an original co-sponsor of H.Res.540, which supports unprecedented national priorities for combatting climate change, including goals for 50% of electricity derived from renewable sources by 2030 as well as the transition to 50% near zero greenhouse gas emissions and 100% clean renewable energy by 2050.  \n\t\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-expanding-preclearance-to-kansai-airport-benefits-national-security-hawaii-tourism", "Hirono: Expanding Preclearance to Kansai Airport Benefits National Security, Hawaii Tourism", "2016-11-04", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono: Expanding Preclearance to Kansai Airport Benefits National Security, Hawaii Tourism\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 4, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\r\nThe U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that it is expanding the U.S. Custom and Border Protection\u2019s (CBP) preclearance program to include Kansai International Airport in Osaka, Japan. Senator Mazie K. Hirono pushed top Administration officials to include Kansai in today\u2019s expansion.\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cIncluding Kansai International Airport in the preclearance program will improve Hawaii\u2019s competitiveness in the fast-growing Asia-Pacific tourism market,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cToday\u2019s announcement furthers the longstanding trust and security relationship between the United States and Japan.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cInitiatives that support our primary industry here in Hawaii are always welcome news, particularly those that make it easier for international visitors to travel to our state and have the potential to bring additional direct flights from Japan to the neighbor islands,\u201d said Chamber of Commerce Hawaii President and CEO Sherry Menor-McNamara. \u201cWe extend our appreciation to Senator Hirono for her advocacy leadership in expanding preclearance to Japan and, in this case, the Kansai Airport.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cI speak for Hawaii\u2019s tourism industry in commending Senator Hirono for her leadership to improve travel access from Osaka\u2019s Kansai International Airport to Hawaii\u2019s neighbor islands. Inbound travelers to Hawaii prefer the convenience of nonstop flights from their home regions and this initiative by Senator Hirono begins the process for airlines to enhance their Osaka service beyond Oahu,\u201d said President and CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority George D. Szigeti. \u201cJapan is Hawaii's largest international market for travelers and, with arrivals being flat year-to-date through September, the ease of nonstop service and enhanced accessibility from Osaka would strengthen our tourism industry and the state as a whole.\"\r\n\u00a0\r\nIn September, Senator Hirono urged Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson and Secretary of State John Kerry to include Kansai Airport in the expansion of the Preclearance program. Click here to read Senator Hirono\u2019s letter. Nearly 600,000 visitors fly from Kansai Airport to Honolulu every year.\r\n\u00a0\r\nLast year, Senator Hirono successfully pushed to include Tokyo\u2019s Narita Airport in the Preclearance program.\r\n\u00a0\r\nUnder the preclearance program, the same passenger immigration, customs, and agriculture inspections otherwise performed on arrival in the United States can be completed before departure at foreign airports. Preclearance allows CBP to better utilize its limited resources on U.S. soil, while screening travelers before they gain access to U.S. bound flights.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/photos-video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-announces-critical-milestone-crossed", "PHOTOS & VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Announces Critical Milestone Crossed For Congressional Gold Medal Bill to Honor WWII Filipino Veterans", "2016-11-01", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HIThis afternoon, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) hosted a roundtable of leaders from Hawaii's Filipino community to update them on the legislation she introduced to award the Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino Veterans of World War II (H.R.2737). The bill recently crossed a critical milestone and, after decades of attempted recognition for Filipino World War II veterans, is closer to passage than ever before.  \n\t  \n\tCongressional Gold Medal bills require two thirds of the House, or at least 290 members, to sign on to the bill before it can move forward. I'm happy to report to you today that we've exceeded this with 309 co-sponsors, with colleagues representing both parties and nearly every state and territory in our nation supporting legislation to recognize these men for their service and sacrifice, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard announced this afternoon to a group of leaders from Hawaii's Filipino community. Despite their critical role in the Pacific, Filipino World War II veterans have never been recognized by Congress for their service. We've waited far too long to recognize these heroes alongside units like the Tuskeegee Airmen and Hawaii's own 442nd/100th Infantry Battalion with the Congressional Gold Medal. With just 18,000 Filipino World War II veterans alive today, time is of the essence for Congress to pass this legislation and honor these courageous men with the long overdue recognition they deserve.  \n\t  \n\tLast year, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard introduced bipartisan legislation (H.R.2737) to award the Congressional Gold Medal to World War II Filipino veterans. The bill acknowledges over 200,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers who responded to President Roosevelt's call-to-duty and fought under the American flag against the Imperial Forces of Japan during World War II. 305 Members of Congress have signed on as co-sponsors of the congresswoman's bill, and she is working with House leadership to schedule it for a vote. With support from Hawaii's Filipino community and organizations across the country, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard hopes to pass the legislation before the end of the year.  \n\t  \n\tAt this afternoon's roundtable with Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, the group also discussed important issues regarding U.S.-Philippines relations, building greater understanding of Filipino history, culture, and contributions in the U.S., higher education, immigration and family reunification, transition programs for service members entering the civilian workforce, the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program, and more.\nB-Roll Video Footage from Today's Roundtable with Leaders of Hawaii's Filipino Community Available Here  \n\t  \n\tClick the photos below to download.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-lawmakers-call-timely-answers-pentagon-claw-backs", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Lawmakers Call For Timely Answers on Pentagon Claw Backs", "2016-10-31", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HIRep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) and 200 other Members of Congress called on the Department of Defense (DoD) to provide answers on reports that nearly 10,000 soldiers have been ordered to pay back enlistment bonuses. In a letter to Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter, the lawmakers called for an immediate halt to the recoupment efforts, demanded the DoD waive payment collection under their current authority, and called for timely answers on the Pentagon's plans to investigate and address this issue nationwide.  \n\t  \n\tRep. Tulsi Gabbard said, It is absolutely unacceptable for the DoD to claw back promises made to our veterans and their families, years after their service. During a time our nation was in great need, these guardsmen stepped up, put their lives on the line, and deployed and redeployed to defend our nation. While the DoD was right to immediately halt recoupment, many veterans have already been forced to pay back thousands of dollars, with interest, and now wait in uncertainty. The Pentagon should permanently waive the recoupment of these bonuses, reimburse those who have already repaid, and provide immediate answers to our veterans and their families.  \n\t  Full text of the letter Rep. Tulsi Gabbard and other lawmakers delivered to the Pentagon is available here\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/icymi-new-hirono-bill-to-protect-workers-in-hawaiis-longline-fleet-", "ICYMI: New Hirono Bill to Protect Workers in Hawaii’s Longline Fleet", "2016-10-31", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ICYMI: New Hirono Bill to Protect Workers in Hawaii\u2019s Longline Fleet \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, October 31, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono will introduce a bill in the new Congress to protect foreign fishermen from exploitation and preserve Hawaii\u2019s longline fishing industry. The Senator laid out her principles for this bill in the Honolulu Star-Advertiser:\r\n\u201cHirono\u2019s bill would give the fishermen temporary work visas designed to afford the workers wage protections, safe working conditions and contract enforcement provisions, similar to those afforded other foreign workers with comparable visas.\r\n\u201cThe visas would allow the fishermen to leave their vessels when docked in Honolulu, as well as travel in and out of Honolulu Airport. Currently, the workers aren\u2019t permitted to fly into the country in order to board the American boats. Instead, captains pick up the workers at foreign locations, such as Samoa.\r\n\u201cThe legislation is aimed at protecting the fishermen while also preserving the longline industry. Hirono has also been working with federal agencies to come up with nonlegislative fixes to the fishermen\u2019s plight.\r\n\u201c\u2018I am committed to protecting foreign fishermen from exploitation and preserving Hawaii\u2019s longline fishing industry,\u2019 Hirono said in a statement Saturday. \u2018I am reviewing relevant laws and regulations and working with federal agencies, stakeholders and other knowledgeable sources to develop legislation that will accomplish these goals.\u2019\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-fcc-s-ruling-important-milestone-online-privacy", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard: FCCs Ruling Is Important Milestone for Online Privacy", "2016-10-28", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HIRep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) released the statement below following the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) ruling that restricts how Internet providers use and sell customer data:  \n\t  \n\t\"Our privacy and civil liberties protections have not kept up with the rapid expansion of technology in today's digital age. As a result, corporations have largely gone unchecked, raking in billions by selling personal data without consent from consumers. The FCC's ruling gives Americans a say in how their personal and private data is used, and lays the groundwork for us to continue strengthening online privacy protections.\"  \n\t  Background: Yesterday, the FCC ruled 3-2 that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are required to get opt-in consent from consumers before they can collect and use consumers' personal data, which includes Web browsing history, app usage, health and financial information, geolocations, and the content of online communications. The new rules require service providers to tell consumers what data they collect and why, as well as to take steps to notify customers of data breaches.  \n\t  \n\tRep. Tulsi Gabbard, a founding member of the Fourth Amendment Caucus, has been a champion for strengthening privacy and civil liberties protections in the digital age. She has introduced legislation to strengthen the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB) and cosponsored legislation like the Electronic Communications Privacy Amendments Act and Email Privacy Act to modernize electronic privacy laws.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/photos-video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-hosts-congress-your-corner-addresses-maritime", "PHOTOS & VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Hosts Congress On Your Corner, Addresses Maritime Pilots, Supports Arts Education", "2016-10-26", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Kihei, MauiThis morning on Maui, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) delivered welcoming remarks and a congressional update to 250 maritime pilots who direct ship navigation in and out of Hawaii, as well as the country's twenty-four ocean-bordering states. She spoke about Hawaii's rich culture and history based on sea navigation; the importance of safe, environmentally responsible, and efficient maritime commerce; and the effects of dangerous trade agreements on our country. The congresswoman also met with Captain Nancy Wagner, the first female ship pilot in the United Statestoday, more than sixty women work in this capacity as a senior sea officer in charge of bringing a ship in and out of port and responsible for the safe navigation of huge cargo ships and tankers.\nIn Congress, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard serves on the STEAM Caucus, which values the inclusion of Arts Education in conjunction with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). Today, she toured the Maui Academy of Performing Arts (MAPA) facility and met with its directors to discuss the importance of their arts programs in schools and off-campus, which support literacy through the arts for students in grades 3-12.  \n\t  \n\tThis afternoon, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard hosted a Congress On Your Corner event, where she visited with more than forty people from across Maui, listened to their ideas and concerns, and answered questions about her work in Congress and at home in Hawaii. She also met with constituents and organization leaders in Makawao who are serving the needs of their community in various ways.\nB-Roll from today's meetings and events is available here for viewing / download.  \n\t  \n\tClick the images below to download.\n  \n\t  \n\tFor more information, please contact Erika Tsuji at (808) 286-0803.  \n\t  \n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-recognized-top-advocate-national-food-policy-0", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Recognized As Top Advocate For National Food Policy", "2016-10-26", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HIFood Policy Action announced Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) as a top advocate for improving the nation's food system. The congresswoman earned a perfect score on the recent release of the National Food Policy Scorecard for her leadership advancing good food policy in the 114th Congress.  \n\t  \n\tFighting for sensible, transparent food policies and supporting local and domestic agriculture have been among my key priorities. This Congress, we've unfortunately seen numerous attempts to roll back progress on good food policy, like undermining common sense food labeling standards across the country, fast-tracking the destructive Trans-Pacific Partnership, and lifting restrictions on the use of harmful pesticides near our vital water resources, said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Food security is a critical issue for people in Hawaii and across the U.S. and I will continue to work hard toward creating a more secure, safe, and healthy future for our people and our environment.  \n\t  \n\t\"Tulsi Gabbard is a strong food champion who has been a steadfast advocate for measures to fix our food system, voting to protect clean water, transparency in food labeling, workers' rights, and the long-term viability of our food supply. Her 100% score on the National Food Policy Scorecard showcases her leadership on food policy issues in Congress,\" said Tom Colicchio, Food Policy Action co-founder, chef and food advocate. \nThe photo below is available here for download  \nRep. Tulsi Gabbard has been a top advocate for a clear, transparent, uniform food labeling standard  \n\t\nBackground:  \n\tRep. Tulsi Gabbard has been a strong advocate for food and production safety and transparency, and was among just 18% of House members that received a perfect score on this year's Food Policy Action Scorecard. Food Policy Action recognized Rep. Tulsi Gabbard for:  \n\t Fighting against the DARK Act and fast-track Trade Promotion Authority (TPA)  \n\t Working to pass clear, easy-to-read food labeling standards  \n\t Protecting the Clean Water Act and upholding restrictions on pesticide use  \n\t Reauthorizing services for kpuna under the Older Americans Reauthorization Act  \n\t  \n\tRep. Tulsi Gabbard has introduced legislation to protect local agriculture and help local farmers fight back against invasive species, including the Macadamia Tree Health Initiative and the Areawide Integrated Pest Management Act. As an original cosponsor of H.R. 913, the Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act, she helped lead Congressional opposition to legislation like the DARK Act and S.764, legislation that pre-empts state and local laws that already require labeling of genetically modified foods and creates a food labeling system based solely on industry science and corporate influences. She has continued working to pass a clear, uniform national labeling standard that makes it easier for consumers to know what's in their food.  \n\t  \n\tFood Policy Action was established in 2012 through a collaboration of national food policy leaders in order to hold legislators accountable on votes that have an effect on food and farming. The National Food Policy Scorecard reflects the consensus of top food policy experts who select the key food policy votes each year. The scorecard considers lawmakers votes on a variety of issues relevant to food policy in the U.S., including domestic and international hunger, food safety, food access, farm subsidies, animal welfare, food and farm labor, nutrition, food additives, food transparency, local and regional food production, organic farming and the effects of food production on the environment.  \n\t  \n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-announces-more-than-15-million-in-federal-funding-for-hawaiis-public-schools", "Hirono Announces More Than $1.5 Million in Federal Funding for Hawaii’s Public Schools", "2016-10-25", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono Announces More Than $1.5 Million in Federal Funding for Hawaii\u2019s Public Schools\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tFunding Will Be Used to Improve Student Achievement\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, October 25, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono announced that the Hawaii Department of Education will receive $1.56 million in federal funding to improve academic achievement at schools throughout the state. The U.S. Department of Education funding will be allocated among Hawaii\u2019s priority status schools to provide students and teachers with additional resources to improve performance in the classroom.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\r\n\u201cThis funding ensures that Hawaii\u2019s public schools will continue to have the necessary resources to help all students succeed,\u201d said Senator Hirono.\r\n\u201cProviding the additional supports to schools that need it most is key to their success,\u201d said Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi. \u201cWe\u2019ve seen the impact extended learning opportunities and professional development for teachers have made. In order to make improvements, we need to provide schools resources. This grant allows us the opportunity to move forward.\u201d\r\nThe funding will be awarded through the U.S. Department of Education\u2019s School Improvement Grants (SIGs) program, which supports state and local educational agencies that demonstrate the greatest need for funds and the strongest commitment to improving student achievement. This year\u2019s award will continue to support the Hawaii Department of Education in its efforts to provide more opportunities for students and teachers in Hawaii\u2019s schools.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-hears-from-oahu-veterans-on-health-care-access-to-benefits", "Hirono Hears from Oahu Veterans on Health Care, Access to Benefits", "2016-10-22", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono Hears from Oahu Veterans on Health Care, Access to Benefits\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tHolds Eighth Veterans Roundtable at Oahu Veterans Center\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tSaturday, October 22, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono joined Oahu Veterans Council members to discuss a recent Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Inspector General report, prepared at the Senator\u2019s request, that assessed the impact of a six-point plant to improve patient wait times at the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS).\u00a0\r\n\u201cOur veterans deserve benefits and quality, timely medical care equal to their service and sacrifice on behalf of our country,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cI will continue to hold the VA accountable until every veteran in Hawaii receives the quality of care they deserve.\u201d\r\nTop Hawaii VA health care and benefits officials also attended the forum and briefed attendees on VA projects designed to improve health care access.\r\nAs a member of the Senate Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee, Senator Hirono has brought top VA officials to Hawaii to hear directly from veterans, and held veterans roundtables on every island. Senator Hirono has successfully championed legislative solutions signed into law to address health care access, housing, and other obstacles that Hawaii veterans face.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/photos-video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-honors-legacy-and-service-hawai-i-nisei-veterans", "PHOTOS & VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Honors Legacy and Service of Hawaii Nisei Veterans as Honolulu International Airport Unveils New Exhibit", "2016-10-21", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HIAt the Interisland Terminal of the Honolulu International Airport this morning, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) joined the Nisei Veterans Legacy Center and Department of Transportation officials at the unveiling and blessing ceremony of a new permanent exhibit celebrating Hawaii's Nisei veterans.\nIt's a privilege and an honor to be here to celebrate the Hawaii Nisei Veterans display and all that it symbolizesespecially with our Nisei veterans here today, representing service and sacrifice from different conflicts and different generations, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a twice-deployed Major in the Hawaii Army National Guard. Your courage during a very difficult time says so much about the values that we strive to uphold and celebrate in this great country. To have this display here provides the opportunity for people coming through as they travelboth kama'ina and visitors from across the country and around the worldto learn more about your sacrifice and to make sure that the legacy of your service continues for generations to come.\nThe exhibit was produced by volunteers from the Nisei Veterans Legacy Center, a nonprofit organization created to preserve and perpetuate the legacy of the Americans of Japanese Ancestry who served in the United States armed forces during World War II, including the 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, Military Intelligence Service, and 1399th Engineer Construction Battalion. Nisei stands for second generation and represents American citizens born in the United States whose parents immigrated from Japan. More information on the Nisei Veterans Legacy.\nClick the images below to download.\nB-Roll video footage from the unveiling of the Hawaii Nisei Veterans exhibit available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-unveils-exhibit-honoring-japanese-american-world-war-ii-veterans", "Hirono Unveils Exhibit Honoring Japanese American World War II Veterans", "2016-10-21", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono Unveils Exhibit Honoring Japanese American World War II Veterans\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, October 21, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono today commemorated the service of Japanese American World War II veterans at a new exhibit in the Honolulu International Airport. The Nisei Veterans Legacy Exhibit includes profiles of members of the 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, Military Intelligence Service, and the 1399th Engineer Construction Battalion.\r\n\u201cThrough this exhibit, millions of people who pass through Honolulu International Airport each year will have the opportunity to learn more about the heroism and service of Japanese American World War II veterans, who bravely fought for the United States even as their loyalty was questioned at home,\u201d said Senator Hirono.\r\nIn 2010, Senator Hirono championed legislation to award Japanese American World War II veterans the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the country\u2019s highest civilian honors.\r\n\r\n442nd Regimental Combat Team veteran Robert Kishinami and Senator Hirono view the new exhibit at Honolulu International Airport", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/photos-video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-congratulates-pearl-harbor-naval-shipyard", "PHOTOS & VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Congratulates Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard Apprentice Graduates", "2016-10-19", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam, HI This afternoon at the Historic Hickam Officers Club, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) delivered congratulatory remarks at a ceremony honoring 135 Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility apprentice program graduates. The congresswoman serves on the House Armed Services' Sea Power and Projection Forces Subcommittee and spoke about the importance of the journeymen's service and their work to care for the military's aging ships, especially with the United States' focus on the Asia-Pacific Region.\nThe Shipyard's Apprentice Program is a partnership between the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Honolulu Community College. The program prepares students for Shipyard careers by combining academic study with paid work experience. This year's graduating class includes journeymen in nineteen different trades..\nThe Shipyard is a field activity of Naval Sea Systems Command and a one-stop regional maintenance center for the Navy's surface ships and submarines. It is the largest industrial employer in Hawaii with a combined civilian and military workforce of over 5,000. Strategically located in the mid-Pacific, the Navy's largest ship repair facility between the West Coast and the Far East is about a week of steam time closer to potential regional contingencies in East Asia than sites on the West Coast.\nB-Roll Video Footage of the Graduation Ceremony Available Here For Download\nClick on the images below to download.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/photos-video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-connects-hawai-i-soldiers-employers-transition", "PHOTOS & VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Connects Hawaii Soldiers With Employers at Transition Summit", "2016-10-18", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Wahiawa, HIThis afternoon at Schofield Barracks, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) spoke to a group of more than 200 Hawaii soldiers who are considering a transition from military service to civilian life. She explained that our soldiers have the skills, leadership, and experience that would benefit any agency, organization, or business in the private sector. The congresswoman also highlighted some of the obstacles veterans face as highly trained applicants ready to join the civilian workforce when there are misconceptions about their preparedness once the uniform is laid down.  \n\t  \n\tThis kind of transition summit sends a strong message to our service memberswhen you're ready to lay down the uniform, you're not going to get kicked to the curb and left on your own, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a twice-deployed Major with the Hawaii Army National Guard. Changing misconceptions that a veteran may not be fit to serve in the workforce is necessaryand it comes down to each of us affecting change in our own spheres of influence. Tell your story and encourage your fellow soldiers to do the same to help those who have never served understand the value that our veterans bring to the table. The need for this understanding is real.  \n\t  \n\tIn Congress, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has worked to create incentives for businesses to hire veterans, to fight against attempts to roll back the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and to increase opportunities for veterans to participate in apprenticeship programs and more.  \n\t  \n\tOn the 12th anniversary of the Iraq War, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard launched the Post 9/11 Veterans Caucus, a bipartisan group of Members of Congress who have served in the military after 9/11, and who are dedicated to issues related to the newest generation of veterans. The caucus' legislative agenda focuses on the 2.8 million veterans who have served and deployed since 9/11 and provides a forum for this new generation of veterans to voice their concerns and ideas.  \n\t  \n\tCongresswoman Tulsi Gabbard introduced the bipartisan Veterans' Entry to Apprenticeship Acta bill that works to make that transition smoother by enabling veterans to use their GI Bill benefits to learn critical workplace skills or apprenticeship programs in the skilled-trade industry. Currently, GI Bill benefits cannot be used to cover the cost of Department of Labor approved pre-apprenticeship programs that teach the skills and techniques necessary to prepare individuals for training and careers in the skilled-trade industry.\nB-Roll from Rep. Tulsi Gabbard's Remarks Is Available Here for Download\nClick the images below to download.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-state-and-local-leaders-emphasize-how-public_private-partnerships-improve-hawaiis-water-security", "Hirono, State & Local Leaders Emphasize How Public & Private Partnerships Improve Hawaii’s Water Security", "2016-10-18", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono, State & Local Leaders Emphasize How Public & Private Partnerships Improve Hawaii\u2019s Water Security\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tGovernor David Ige, Environmental Experts Testify at Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee Field Hearing at State Capitol\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, October 18, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono today convened state and local leaders to examine how federal partnerships protect and sustain Hawaii\u2019s freshwater resources. Senator Hirono, Governor David Ige, state elected officials, and watershed resource experts outlined what Hawaii groups are currently doing to improve water security, and how the federal government can support these efforts.\r\n\u201cHawaii\u2019s native forested watersheds feed our state\u2019s water supply, and it is vital that we protect these precious resources,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cThe federal government will continue to play a critical role in supporting innovative strategies that protect our forested watersheds. We must continue to work with all stakeholders to improve conservation and ensure that our water resources are protected for generations to come.\u201d\r\n\u201cDuring the World Conservation Congress in Honolulu last month, I made an ambitious commitment to the global community to protect 30 percent of Hawaii\u2019s priority watershed forests by 2030,\u201d said Governor Ige. \u201cOnly 15 percent of priority watershed forests are protected. We can only reach this goal and exceed it through public-private partnerships between landowners and managers who recognize this is the best way to protect our forested watersheds and our fresh water source.\u201d\r\nSenator Hirono voted to permanently reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Senator Hirono also worked to get Hawaii\u2019s collaborative landscape proposal, \u201cIsland Forests at Risk,\u201d in the President\u2019s budget for FY 2016 and 2017. This proposal, which includes 13 public and private partners, provides funding to purchase and protect endangered species\u2019 habitats, culturally significant areas, and ecologically important lands in the state.\r\nSenator Hirono heard from a number of witnesses who shared federal, local, and cultural perspectives on how to improve Hawaii\u2019s water security, including:\r\n\u00a0\r\nState Senator Mike Gabbard\r\nChair, Hawaii State Senate Committee on Water, Land, and Agriculture\r\nState Representative Ryan Yamane\r\nChair, Hawaii State House of Representatives Committee on Water and Land\r\nMr. Steve Anthony\r\nDirector, U.S. Geological Survey Pacific Islands Water Science Center\r\nMr. Randy Moore\r\nRegional Forester, U.S. Department of Agriculture Pacific Southwest Region Forest Service\r\nMr. David Smith\r\nAdministrator, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife\r\nDr. Sam Gon\r\nSenior Scientist and Cultural Advisor, The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii\r\nMr. Matthew Gonser\r\nExtension Faculty, University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program\r\nMr. Trae Menard\r\nChair, Hawaii Association of Watershed Partnerships", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/press-releases/648-rep-tulsi-gabbard-lawmakers-call-for-answers-on-yahoo-email-surveillance", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Lawmakers Call for Answers on Yahoo Email Surveillance", "2016-10-14", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HI\u2014Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) and a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers delivered a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch and Director of National Intelligence James Clapper requesting answers on reports that Yahoo searched users\u2019 private emails at the request of the federal government. The full letter is available here.\n\u201cAs legislators, it is our responsibility to have accurate information about the intelligence activities conducted by the federal government,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cThere is significant confusion regarding the existence and nature of Yahoo\u2019s software program described by recent reports and the legal questions implicated by the accuracy of specific details. We request information and a briefing as soon as possible for all members of Congress to resolve the issues raised by these reports.\u201d\nIn July, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard helped launch the bipartisan Fourth Amendment Caucus, composed of lawmakers committed to protecting the privacy and security of Americans in the digital age. She has introduced the Strengthening Privacy, Oversight, and Transparency (SPOT) Act (H.R.2305) in both the 114th and 113th Congress to strengthen the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB) and expand its authority to balance the government\u2019s national security and counterterrorism activities with the need to protect the privacy rights of law-abiding Americans.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/photos-video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-tours-army-rotc-facility-uh-m-noa-mentors-cadets", "PHOTOS & VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Tours Army ROTC Facility at UH Mnoa, Mentors Cadets", "2016-10-14", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HIAt dawn this morning, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) met with Lieutenant Colonel Kate Conkey, Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) cadre, and more than one hundred cadets enrolled in the college-based officer training program. She toured the Warrior Battalion facility on the University of Hawaii at Mnoa campus, spoke with the cadets about her service in the Hawaii Army National Guard and in Congress, servant-leadership, and the Army Values, and answered a series of questions from the soon-to-be graduates and Army officers.\nB-Roll Video Footage is Available Here for Download\nClick the images below to download photos from Rep. Tulsi Gabbard's Warrior Battalion ROTC visit at UH Manoa.\n  Background\nThe Warrior Battalion is the only ROTC unit to ever be called to federal serviceon December 7, 1941 cadets were made part of the Hawaii Territorial Guard and assisted in guarding vital facilities on the island of Oahu, serving for a seven-week period. There are currently 132 Army cadets in the program, and eighteen of them are combat veterans. Since its inception, fourteen cadets and two cadre members from the Warrior Battalion have paid the ultimate sacrifice in service:\nWorld War II\nSSG Grover Kazutomi Nagaji  \n\tSGT Howard Mitsuru Urabe  \n\tSGT Jenhatsu Chinen  \n\tPVT Akio Nishikawa  \n\tPFC Hiroichi Tomita  \n\tSGT Daniel Betsui  \n\tSGT Robert Murata  \n\tMAJ Jack Johnson\nVietnam War\n2LT Thomas Blevins  \n\t2LT Frank Rodriguez  \n\tLTC Karl Lange  \n\t1LT Brian Kong  \n\tCPT Kenneth Good\nGlobal War on Terror\n1LT Nainoa Hoe  \n\t1LT Jeremy Wolfe  \n\t1LT Johnathan Brostrom\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-lawmakers-call-answers-yahoo-email-surveillance", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Lawmakers Call for Answers on Yahoo Email Surveillance", "2016-10-14", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HIRep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) and a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers delivered a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch and Director of National Intelligence James Clapper requesting answers on reports that Yahoo searched users' private emails at the request of the federal government. The full letter is available here.\nAs legislators, it is our responsibility to have accurate information about the intelligence activities conducted by the federal government, the lawmakers wrote. There is significant confusion regarding the existence and nature of Yahoo's software program described by recent reports and the legal questions implicated by the accuracy of specific details. We request information and a briefing as soon as possible for all members of Congress to resolve the issues raised by these reports.\nIn July, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard helped launch the bipartisan Fourth Amendment Caucus, composed of lawmakers committed to protecting the privacy and security of Americans in the digital age. She has introduced the Strengthening Privacy, Oversight, and Transparency (SPOT) Act (H.R.2305) in both the 114th and 113th Congress to strengthen the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB) and expand its authority to balance the government's national security and counterterrorism activities with the need to protect the privacy rights of law-abiding Americans.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/in-the-news/garden-island-hawaii-launches-text-911-service-thursday", "Garden Island: Hawaii launches Text-to-911 service Thursday", "2016-10-13", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A 911-texting service is being launched for the state of Hawaii.\nThe text-to-911 service provides practical mobile emergency communications, Hawaii Gov. David Ige said at press conference Thursday. This can be important to the disadvantaged community, the disabled, deaf and hard of hearing. Hawaii is proud to join six other states that have deployed this service across the country.\nText-to-911 can support plain text Short Messaging Services (SMS) messages only and is limited to 160 characters per text. Pictures, videos and emojis currently cannot be processed. In addition, callers must have active wireless service including a text or data plan, and the devices location service must be turned on.\nAccording to the Federal Communications Commission, Hawaii joins New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Indiana, New Jersey and North Dakota as states where text-to-911 is available statewide.\nThe service, which will be available where mobile service can be accessed, is made possible through funding for the Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). The Enhanced 9-1-1 Fund was established in accordance with Act 168/SLH 2011 and consists of monthly enhanced 911 surcharge collections imposed on each communications service connection, according to the Department of Accounting and General Services.\nThe rate of the surcharge is 66 cents per month for each communication service connection.\nE911 Board chair and Hawaii County Police Department Deputy Chief Paul Ferreira reported a total cost of over $3-4 million dollars per local area public safety answering points (PSAP) to upgrade the Computer Assisted Dispatch software systems and infrastructure that can now receive text messages.\nFerreira added that the 911-texting service was made possible through the coordination and collaboration between PSAP, government and the public industry.\nIts quite a breakthrough and a game-changing announcement thats being made today to serve our community at-large and to better help our first responders do their job, said Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. As the governor talked about, it is about extending access and closing the gap and providing service for those who are hearing and speech impaired in this technological age.\nTheres no question, she said, that this technology will help to save lives.\nIt is providing for those who may be victims of domestic violence or facing an active shooter situation where a phone call is not possible, Gabbard said.\nMayor Bernard P. Carvalho, Jr, said he is proud that Hawaii is one of the first states in the nation to implement the life-saving service.\nThere are many people who will benefit from the ability to text 911, such as the hearing and speech-impaired community and those involved in domestic violence or other situations where calling 911 isnt possible, he said. I applaud all of those who worked together to bring Text to 911 to Hawaii, especially our Kauai representatives.\nKauai Police Chief Darryl Perry added that Hawaiis Enhanced 911 Board has worked hard to bring the Text-to-911 feature to the community.\nOur gratitude goes out to all of those who played a role in making this service possible, most especially our dispatchers, who have the difficult job of coordinating our emergency response, he said. The public is reminded that those who can call 911 should, as calling 911 is a more efficient way to get emergency assistance.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-employee-owned-businesses-benefit-hawaii-families", "Hirono: Employee-Owned Businesses Benefit Hawaii Families", "2016-10-13", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono: Employee-Owned Businesses Benefit Hawaii Families\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, October 13, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono today commended Hawaii\u2019s employee owned business for creating a shared sense of success and responsibility in the workplace. Senator Hirono addressed Hawaii\u2019s Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Association, which supports employee owned businesses across the state.\r\n\u201cHawaii\u2019s ESOPs show that when workers are the shareholders, companies can focus on sustainable growth that creates jobs and boosts incomes over the long-term \u2013 not just the next quarter,\u201d said Senator Hirono.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-addresses-council-for-native-hawaiian-advancement", "Hirono Addresses Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement", "2016-10-12", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Mazie Hirono", "H001042", "www.hirono.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hirono Addresses Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 12, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSenator Mazie K. Hirono renewed her commitment to the Native Hawaiian community at the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement\u2019s annual convention.\r\n\u201cThe Native Hawaiian community has made significant strides in growing culturally significant and relevant initiatives that benefit families across Hawaii,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cHowever, there is still work to be done. Federal programs that improve educational opportunities, access to health care, and housing demonstrate the federal government\u2019s commitment to the Native Hawaiian community and must continue.\u201d\r\nSenator Hirono is a strong advocate in protecting federal programs that benefit the Native Hawaiian community. In the recent renewal of federal K-12 education laws, the Every Student Succeeds Act, Senator Hirono fought to protect federal grants for Native Hawaiian education programs.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/press-releases/644-rep-tulsi-gabbard-announces-federal-funds-for-maui-family-support-services", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Announces Federal Funds for Maui Family Support Services", "2016-10-11", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HI\u2014U.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today announced federal funding totaling $1 million that will help increase availability, affordability and improve the quality of child care programs for Native Hawaiian families through Maui Family Support Services.\u00a0  \n\t\u00a0  \n\t\u201cHawai\u02bbi families should not have to choose between their child\u2019s safety and meeting day-to-day needs. Yet a lack of access to quality and affordable childcare, especially on our neighbor islands, makes it increasingly difficult for families to make ends meet. This federal funding for the Quality Care for Hawaiian Keiki (QCHK) project will increase the number of quality child care providers in Maui County and help make childcare more affordable and accessible for more than 200 Native Hawaiian families in need,\u201d said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. \u00a0  \n\t\u00a0  \n\t\u201cWe are very excited and thankful for this federal grant as it will impact a lot of Native Hawaiian and Part-Hawaiian families in improving their self-sufficiency. \u00a0By providing them with child care subsidies, they will be able to go to work, go to school or attend training. \u00a0For families who are working part-time or going to school part-time, this grant will also assist them in increasing their work hours or school credits as they will be able to afford childcare. \u00a0In addition to subsidies, we will be able to assist child care providers (licensed providers as well as relatives who are providing care) in improving quality of their services by supporting their professional development,\u201d said Edeluisa M. Baguio-Larena, CEO of Maui Family Support Services.  \n\t\u00a0  Background: The Administration for Children and Families-Office of Child Care recently awarded Maui Family Support Services (MFSS) a $1,000,000 grant for the Quality Care for Hawaiian Keiki (QCH) project. The project will provide childcare subsidies to over 200 Native Hawaiian/ Part-Hawaiian families based upon eligibility. MFSS will serve families in Hana, Moloka\u02bbi and areas in Central and Upcountry in Maui. In addition, the MFSS QCHK project will increase the number of quality child care providers in Maui County by providing educational consumer information to promote informed childcare choices, provide activities that will improve the quality and availability of childcare, and having high-quality staff development for providers. MFSS will post and provide more information regarding the project\u2019s eligibility criteria and how to sign-up for services in the near future.\u00a0  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tRep. Tulsi Gabbard has worked closely with organizations like Maui Family Support Services and others across the state that support the social and economic needs of Hawai\u02bbi families. Last year, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard honored the 35th Anniversary of Maui Family Support Services and spoke about the impact MFSS has made for families and the Maui County community in a speech on the House floor.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tMaui Family Support Services was founded in 1980 with a mission to, \u201cpromote healthy family functioning by providing family support and educational services that build on family strengths.\u201d The organization\u2019s prime directive is to utilize its collective resources toward the prevention of child abuse and neglect. More information can be found at www.mfss.org.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-announces-federal-funds-maui-family-support-services", "Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Announces Federal Funds for Maui Family Support Services", "2016-10-11", "2016", "2016-10", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Tulsi Gabbard", "G000571", "gabbard.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honolulu, HIU.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today announced federal funding totaling $1 million that will help increase availability, affordability and improve the quality of child care programs for Native Hawaiian families through Maui Family Support Services.  \n\t  \n\tHawaii families should not have to choose between their child's safety and meeting day-to-day needs. Yet a lack of access to quality and affordable childcare, especially on our neighbor islands, makes it increasingly difficult for families to make ends meet. This federal funding for the Quality Care for Hawaiian Keiki (QCHK) project will increase the number of quality child care providers in Maui County and help make childcare more affordable and accessible for more than 200 Native Hawaiian families in need, said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard.   \n\t  \n\tWe are very excited and thankful for this federal grant as it will impact a lot of Native Hawaiian and Part-Hawaiian families in improving their self-sufficiency. By providing them with child care subsidies, they will be able to go to work, go to school or attend training. For families who are working part-time or going to school part-time, this grant will also assist them in increasing their work hours or school credits as they will be able to afford childcare. In addition to subsidies, we will be able to assist child care providers (licensed providers as well as relatives who are providing care) in improving quality of their services by supporting their professional development, said Edeluisa M. Baguio-Larena, CEO of Maui Family Support Services.  \n\t  Background: The Administration for Children and Families-Office of Child Care recently awarded Maui Family Support Services (MFSS) a $1,000,000 grant for the Quality Care for Hawaiian Keiki (QCH) project. The project will provide childcare subsidies to over 200 Native Hawaiian/ Part-Hawaiian families based upon eligibility. MFSS will serve families in Hana, Molokai and areas in Central and Upcountry in Maui. In addition, the MFSS QCHK project will increase the number of quality child care providers in Maui County by providing educational consumer information to promote informed childcare choices, provide activities that will improve the quality and availability of childcare, and having high-quality staff development for providers. MFSS will post and provide more information regarding the project's eligibility criteria and how to sign-up for services in the near future.  \n\t  \n\tRep. Tulsi Gabbard has worked closely with organizations like Maui Family Support Services and others across the state that support the social and economic needs of Hawaii families. Last year, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard honored the 35th Anniversary of Maui Family Support Services and spoke about the impact MFSS has made for families and the Maui County community in a speech on the House floor.  \n\t  \n\tMaui Family Support Services was founded in 1980 with a mission to, promote healthy family functioning by providing family support and educational services that build on family strengths. The organization's prime directive is to utilize its collective resources toward the prevention of child abuse and neglect. More information can be found at www.mfss.org.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 409, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"state\" = :p0 and \"year\" = :p1 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "HI", "p1": "2016"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=HI&year=2016", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 409, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=HI&year=2016&party=Democrat", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=HI&year=2016", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 409, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=HI&year=2016&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=HI&year=2016", "results": [{"value": "HI", "label": "HI", "count": 409, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?year=2016", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=HI&year=2016", "results": [{"value": "2016", "label": "2016", "count": 409, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=HI", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2016-10-11,https~3A~2F~2Fgabbard~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress-releases~2Frep-tulsi-gabbard-announces-federal-funds-maui-family-support-services", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=HI&year=2016&_next=2016-10-11%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fgabbard~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress-releases~2Frep-tulsi-gabbard-announces-federal-funds-maui-family-support-services&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 136.60269090905786, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}