Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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424 rows where state = "HI" and year = 2022 sorted by date descending
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| https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1026 | University of Hawai‘i Will Benefit From Solid Results In Federal Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill | 2022-12-31 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | House | HI | Ed Case | C001055 | case.house.gov | case | https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=16 | scraper | (Washington, DC) – Congressman Ed Case (HI-01), a member of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for all federal discretionary spending, has announced millions in funding and other actions he sought and secured to strengthen the University of Hawaii’s (UH) position as a major research institution and economic generator for the state. The funds are included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Omnibus Appropriations measure recently passed by Congress and signed into law by President Biden. “This funding measure continues to showcase a very productive partnership between our Hawai’i congressional delegation and UH, our flagship institution of higher education and engine of our economy, with its excellent record of attracting hundreds of millions in research funding,” said Case. “In President Lassner’s report to the UH Board of Regents earlier this year, he referred to the result of our FY 2022 federal spending bill as ‘an excellent year for UH’ and thanked the Hawai‘i congressional delegation, ‘all of whom have been actively working on behalf of the State of Hawai‘i and the University of Hawai‘i with programs that will really help us serve our communities on every island.’ This year’s spending bill builds further on that foundation to provide UH with enhanced federal support.” Case worked to directly support UH through his Community Project Funding (CPF) requests by securing: · $6.5 million for the UH Center to complete construction of the Early Phase Clinical Research Center on its Kaka‘ako campus. The 17,000 square foot outpatient early phase clinical trial clinic—the first of its kind in State of Hawai‘i—will provide Hawai‘i cancer patients who have exhausted traditional treatments with greater access to novel clinical trials across multiple disciplines. Senators Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono also supported this request. · $1.8 million for the Hawai‘i Public Health Institute to develop and train navigators to support kūpuna and family caregivers. This is a joint initiative between UH-Mānoa and th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1025 | Case Ensures Continued Federal Assistance For Native Hawaiians In 2023 Omnibus Spending Measure | 2022-12-30 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | House | HI | Ed Case | C001055 | case.house.gov | case | https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=16 | scraper | (Washington, DC) – Congressman Ed Case (HI-01), a member of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for all federal discretionary spending, today announced millions in funding and other actions he sought and secured that will directly benefit the Native Hawaiian community. The funds are included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Omnibus Appropriations bill recently approved by Congress and signed into law by the President. “Native Hawaiians are a unique community within our national fabric, and so are many of their challenges and needs, especially in health care, education and housing,” said Case. “I successfully sought millions in funding to support and advance various Native Hawaiian economic, cultural, educational and health initiatives. The 2023 omnibus spending bill builds on past funding increases I have been able to secure for Native Hawaiian-serving programs and includes new funding to support specific needs within the Native Hawaiian community.” Provisions in the $1.7 trillion omnibus funding measure that Case sought and won approval for include: Native Hawaiian-Serving Programs and Initiatives · Native Hawaiian Education: $45.9 million, a $7 million increase, for the Native Hawaiian Education Program (NHEP). Of these funds, Congressman Case also secured $10 million in set-aside funding to specifically fund construction, renovation, and modernization of Native Hawaiian schools and education program – the first time ever NHEP funds will be made available for capital improvements. Congressman Case also secured additional report language directing the U.S. Department of Education to (1) provide sufficient funding to the Native Hawaiian Education Council and (2) offer technical assistance to quality applicants with experience educating Native Hawaiian children and youth. These new requirements seek to address concerns raised by Native Hawaiian education advocates and improve the program’s impact on Native Hawaiian community. · Native Hawaiian Health Care: $27 million, a $5 million increase, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/2022-year-in-review | 2022 Year in Review | 2022-12-30 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Aloha, Over the past year, Democrats in Congress have passed landmark legislation to lower energy costs, support veterans and seniors, uplift underrepresented communities, and provide funding to upgrade aging infrastructure. As the year comes to a close, I’d like to reflect on the work we’ve done to support families and communities in Hawaii and across our country. Lowering Prescription Drug Costs The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 passed in August will lower prescription drug costs for hundreds of thousands of our kupuna in Hawaii. Thanks to the IRA, Medicare recipients who rely on insulin will have their insulin costs capped at $35 a month starting next year. Starting in 2025, the more than 200,000 Medicare recipients with Part D in Hawaii will have their annual drug costs capped at $2,000. Medicare finally has the power to negotiate prescription drug prices, with the first of those negotiated prices going into effect in 2026. The IRA also includes my bill to make vaccines for things like shingles and hepatitis-A free under Medicare. I recently participated in a Town Hall with AARP Hawaii about the IRA’s drug cost savings, which you can listen to here. Red Hill I have been in direct and regular contact with the Department of Defense and Navy leadership about the Red Hill fuel spill and drinking water system contamination, and more recently the AFFF spill and cleanup efforts. The repeated leaks at Red Hill are completely unacceptable and have been devastating for families and businesses in the impacted area. My focus has been on securing the funding necessary to safely defuel and permanently close the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility on Oahu, which has endangered the health and safety of thousands of families in Hawaii. Last week, I successfully secured $1 billion in the annual defense authorization bill for Red Hill’s closure, and that funding was also included in the year-end appropriations bill. Both of these pieces of legislation have now been signed into law, getting us closer to safely clos… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1024 | Case: Congress-Passed Funding Measure Focuses Billions On Indo-Pacific And Hawaii's Role | 2022-12-29 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | House | HI | Ed Case | C001055 | case.house.gov | case | https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=16 | scraper | (Washington, DC) -- U.S. Congressman Ed Case (HI-01), a member of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for all federal discretionary spending, said that the $1.7 trillion omnibus measure to fund the federal government for the current Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 includes billions in State and Defense Department funding focused on the Indo-Pacific and Hawaii’s role, a measure just signed into law by the President. “This measure strengthens our national defense and bolsters our commitments to diplomacy, development and democracy throughout the Indo-Pacific, where the future of our country and world is being determined,” said Case. “It also recognizes Hawaii’s continued critical role through investments in facilities, personnel and institutions that are integral parts of our overall efforts, in addition to major contributors to our local economy.” Provisions of special interest to Hawai‘i and for which Case advocated throughout the yearlong FY 2023 appropriations process include: · $22 million for the East-West Center. · $1.8 billion for implementation of the Indo-Pacific Strategy to counter malign influence and promote peace, prosperity and democracy in the region, an increase of over $100 million from the prior fiscal year. · Report language encouraging the Department of State to increase the number of scholarships available for Pacific Islanders to study in the United States, many of whom study at the University of Hawai‘i. · An $8 million increase for the Asia Pacific Regional Initiative, a key program supporting the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. This program enables the military to execute Theater Security Cooperation activities, such as humanitarian assistance and paying incremental personnel costs of training and exercising with foreign security forces. The initiative is a critical tool for the U.S. military to strengthen relationships throughout the Indo-Pacific region. · Support for the Coast Guard’s role in the Indo-Pacific and a required review of the Coast Guard’s assets in Oceania and fa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1023 | Case Secures Passage Of Hawai‘i National Forest Study Bill | 2022-12-28 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | House | HI | Ed Case | C001055 | case.house.gov | case | https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=16 | scraper | (Washington, DC) -- U.S. Congressman Ed Case (HI-01), a member of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for all federal discretionary spending, today announced the inclusion of critical funding and programs to protect Hawaii’s environment as part of the just-passed Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 omnibus funding bill. “The FY 2023 Omnibus Appropriations bill makes substantial federal investments in Hawaii’s efforts to conserve our lands and ocean for future generations and protect endangered species,” said Case. “The omnibus includes my proposal to initiative a process which may lead to Hawaii’s first-ever National Forest, which would assist us in preserving our truly unique ecosystem,” explained Case. “It directs our federal government to pursue a formal process led by the U.S. Forest Service of engaging with state and community stakeholders toward identification of the most suitable Hawai‘i forests for inclusion as national forests.” Case also added: “The FY 2023 omnibus funding measure will boost efforts to help Hawai‘i fight invasive species, which have caused Hawai’i to be recognized as the invasive species capital of the world.” The bill adopts Case’s request to support various invasive species programs, including $36 million for the Agricultural Quarantine Inspections Program to combat invasive species in Hawai‘i and $47 million for the U.S. Geological Survey Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program. The bill also creates a pilot program to prioritize the use of native plant species and combat invasive species within the National Park System. The bill includes the following other funding and programs requested and secured by Case: · $1.3 million to safeguard over nearly 700 acres in Maunawili Valley. The proposed forest reserve would be managed by the Hawai‘i Division of Forestry and Wildlife in partnership with local nonprofits seeking to steward the land, engage sustainable agriculture and restore cultural sites and lo‘i. Maunawili Forest is not only significant for its histo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1021 | Case Says Federal FY 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill Includes Provisions To Assist Hawai’i Small Business And Tourism And Strengthen Worker Retirement Savings | 2022-12-27 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | House | HI | Ed Case | C001055 | case.house.gov | case | https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=16 | scraper | (Washington, DC) – Congressman Ed Case (HI-01), a member of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for all federal discretionary spending, today announced that the $1.7 trillion Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Omnibus Appropriations measure, recently passed by Congress and soon to be signed into law by President Biden, includes several initiatives to strengthen Hawaii’s dominant tourism and small business economies as well as assist Hawai’i workers with their retirements. “This measure will strengthen our top-generating tourism sector, promote small business development and assist in economic diversification as our state’s economy continues to recover from the lingering effects of COVID-19,” said Case. The omnibus bill includes the Visit America Act, a top initiative of the national travel and tourism industry which Case, a member of the Congressional Travel and Tourism Caucus, and like-minded colleagues introduced and advanced. It would mandate a coordinated national effort to stabilize and recover one of the country’s primary industries, and create a first-ever Assistant Secretary of Travel and Tourism within the U.S. Department of Commerce. The federal spending measure also includes retirement provisions that will provide millions of workers and retirees with significant improvements to the nation’s private retirement system. “The aptly named ‘SECURE 2.0 Act’ provision expands automatic enrollment into retirement plans, raises the age for required minimum disbursements from retirement plans to 75 from 73 and increases the amount that individuals aged 50 and older can put into their retirement account,” said Case. Tourism “The COVID-19 pandemic devastated our travel and tourism industry and all of its components including accommodations, transportation, food services and attractions,” said Case, formerly a travel and tourism executive with industry leader Outrigger Enterprises headquartered in Waikīkī. “Travel and tourism are huge contributors to the U.S. economy, especially to major visitor destin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/president-biden-signs-hirono-legislation-to-support-native-hawaiian-survivors-of-gender-based-violence | President Biden Signs Hirono Legislation to Support Native Hawaiian Survivors of Gender-Based Violence | 2022-12-27 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Joseph R. Biden signed into law legislation led by Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) to allow Native Hawaiian survivors of gender-based violence to access critical programs and resources provided by Congress through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). The reauthorization of VAWA—which was signed into law in March, 2022—provides funding to Native Hawaiian survivors of all types of sexual and gender-based violence, including sexual assault, sex-trafficking, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. Senator Hirono’s legislation amends VAWA to ensure Native Hawaiian organizations are able to serve the Native Hawaiian community. The bill, which passed in the Senate unanimously last month, passed in the House on a voice vote earlier this month. “Like other Native communities across the country, Native Hawaiians experience disproportionately high levels of sexual and gender-based violence,” said Senator Hirono. “Despite this crisis, Native Hawaiian women have long been unjustly excluded from accessing much-needed resources for survivors provided through the Violence Against Women Act. This bill addresses this injustice and allows Native Hawaiian Organizations to better serve Native Hawaiians, and I’m glad the President has signed it into law. Now, Native Hawaiian organizations will have access to support and resources to serve the Native Hawaiian community and work towards eradicating sexual violence in our state.” Native women across the country—including American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women—experience disproportionately high levels of sexual violence. Therefore, VAWA includes Services, Training, Officers Prosecutors (STOP) grants to provide funding for eligible Native-serving non-profits, including Native Hawaiian organizations, to help combat sexual violence and support survivors. However, due to an earlier drafting error in the law, while Native Hawaiian organizations were able to apply for STOP grant funding, they could not use the funds to actually… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1020 | Case Secures More Than $94 Million For Local Community Projects In Final Federal Funding Package | 2022-12-23 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | House | HI | Ed Case | C001055 | case.house.gov | case | https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=16 | scraper | (Washington, DC) – U.S. Congressman Ed Case (HI-01), completing his fourth year as a member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, announced today that the final $1.7 trillion Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 omnibus federal funding package approved by Congress and expected to be signed by the President includes billions in assistance for Hawai‘i, of which $94,382,465 is directed to his fourteen Community Project Funding (CPF) requests. “Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle worked together to avoid a government shutdown and fund programs critical to our country, our communities and our families,” said Case. “For our Hawai‘i, I especially worked to include an additional $1 billion of funding, over and above the $1.1 billion we secured for Fiscal Year 2022, to ensure the continued remediation and closure of the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Facility and to address the health concerns related to the water contamination crisis,” said Case. “To address affordable housing for our residents, I was also able to secure funds to assist with a wide range of housing needs, which have worsened for our workforce, kūpuna and veterans. “I was also able to provide millions for worthy local community projects that would have difficulty being completed if not for specific and direct funding from Congress.” Case’s CPF projects are listed below: $4.8 million to the City and County of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services to develop a 30-mile active transit corridor connecting East to West O‘ahu. (Schatz and Case joint request) $500,000 to the Institute for Human Services for the Village of Redemption project to support housing for formerly incarcerated individuals. $1 million for the Clean Energy Wayfinders Program that fosters engagement in local clean energy and energy efficiency policy, programs and projects and in training and deploying the next generation of energy workers in the state. $2 million for the Honolulu Fire Department to harder fire station doors. (Schatz and Case joint request) $1.8 million for the Hawai… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-bills-to-protect-coral-reefs-reconnect-families-separated-by-korean-war-create-new-va-advisory-committee-enacted-into-law | Hirono Bills to Protect Coral Reefs, Reconnect Families Separated by Korean War, Create New VA Advisory Committee Enacted Into Law | 2022-12-23 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Joe Biden signed into law three bills introduced by U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) to protect coral reefs, connect families separated by the Korean War, and create a new Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) Advisory Committee. Senator Hirono’s Coral Reef Sustainability Through Innovation Act and Korean War Divided Families Reunification Act were both signed into law as part of the fiscal year 2023 (FY23) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), as was legislation she introduced to create a VA Advisory Committee for veterans from outlying areas and the Freely Associated States. Senator Hirono’s Coral Reef Sustainability Through Innovation Act is a bipartisan bill to help protect coral reef ecosystems in Hawaii and across the nation from increasing threats such as climate change, pollution, and direct damage from humans. The legislation directs the federal agencies that are members of the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force to establish—individually or with one or more other agencies—a coral health prize competition in order to spur innovative solutions to preserve, sustain, and restore coral reef ecosystems at no additional cost to taxpayers. “Coral reefs are vital to Hawaii’s environment, providing a rich habitat for marine life while helping to protect our coastlines and prevent flooding. However, decades of pollution and ocean warming caused by climate change have left corals in Hawaii and around the world at risk of extinction,” said Senator Hirono. “As we work to protect and restore coral reef ecosystems, I’m glad that President Biden has now signed into law my legislation to create prize competitions that will help incentivize innovation and inspire creative solutions to protect coral reefs. I’ll continue fighting to protect Hawaii’s coral reefs and all of our natural resources for generations to come.” The Korean War Divided Families Reunification Act, which Senator Hirono introduced in August, is bipartisan legislation that directs the U.S. Secretary of State to establi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-led-provision-providing-1-billion-to-close-red-hill-signed-into-law-as-part-of-annual-defense-bill | Hirono-Led Provision Providing $1 Billion to Close Red Hill Signed Into Law as Part of Annual Defense Bill | 2022-12-23 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Biden signed into law the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) authorizing $1 billion for the defueling and closure of Red Hill secured by U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. In addition to the $1 billion for Red Hill, Senator Hirono also secured nearly $800 million for other military infrastructure upgrades in Hawaii in the annual defense bill. “Over the past year, I have fought to make sure the Department of Defense has the authority and funding necessary to defuel and close Red Hill once and for all,” said Senator Hirono. “I’m glad that President Biden has now signed the NDAA into law, giving DOD the authority I fought for to safely and quickly close Red Hill. This is about protecting the health and safety of our servicemembers, families, and all of the communities impacted by the fuel leaks. I’ll continue working to make sure DOD uses this funding appropriately in order to safely defuel and close Red Hill without delay.” In addition to the $1 billion for Red Hill, Senator Hirono also secured nearly $800 million for military infrastructure projects across Hawaii. More information on the military provisions Senator Hirono secured is available below: Red Hill Authorizes $1 billion in funding for the Red Hill Recovery Fund. Authorizes the closure of the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility on Oahu and $1 billion in funding to support the closure. Develops plans for Directs the Department of Defense (DoD) to appoint a single point of contact to lead the closure of Red Hill and conduct an independent assessment of optimal post-closure care for the Red Hill facility. Establishes a water monitoring program at the facility. Directs a federally funded research and development to conduct a study to determine the range of feasible alternative DoD uses for the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility and provide to the Secretary a report on the findings of the study. Directs a briefing on the efforts of t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1019 | Congress Approves Case, Kahele Measure To Advance Possible Designation Of Ka'ena Point As A National Heritage Area | 2022-12-22 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | House | HI | Ed Case | C001055 | case.house.gov | case | https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=16 | scraper | (Washington, DC) – U.S. Congressman Ed Case (HI-01) announced today that the U.S. House of Representatives has given final Congressional approval to a bill he and U.S. Congressman Kai Kahele (HI-02) introduced to advance the possible designation of Ka‘ena Point on O‘ahu’s westernmost tip as Hawaii’s first Natural Heritage Area (NHA). The Senate, where a companion measure was introduced by Senator Mazie Hirono, approved passage of the bill earlier this week as part of an end-of-117th-Congress NHA package. The measure now goes to President, who is expected to sign it into law. “Our bill, which I first drafted and introduced in the 116th Congress (2019-2021), directs the U.S. Department of the Interior to evaluate whether Ka‘ena Point, a treasured wilderness area on otherwise densely-populated O‘ahu, should be designated as our first NHA,” said Case. “Kaʻena Point, largely state-owned, is the perfect candidate for an NHA in Hawaiʻi given its truly unique cultural, historic and environmental heritage and qualities. I fully expect the required study to confirm that Ka‘ena Point holds valuable resources that reflect our country’s heritage and are worthy of conservation and recognition. “The State of Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has already created a management plan for the Ka‘ena Point Stewardship Area to protect one of the last few remaining and easily accessible wilderness areas on O‘ahu,” said Case. “With a NHA designation, we can unlock federal funds to support existing local plans for Ka‘ena Point. The local community will be fully involved in both the study and, in the event of NHA designation, in its stewardship. “I am grateful for the partnership of Congressman Kahele and Senator Hirono in achieving passage of our measure.” “Kaʻena Point holds a special place for many Native Hawaiians who visit the area for traditional cultural practices & spiritual connection,” said Kahele. “The potential establishment of Kaʻena Point as a National Heritage Area will ensure the conservation and… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-secures-nearly-450-million-for-hawaii-in-federal-spending-bill | Hirono Secures Nearly $450 Million for Hawaii in Federal Spending Bill | 2022-12-22 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) voted to pass the Fiscal Year 2023 government spending bill, which includes nearly $450 million in earmarks, known as Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS), she secured for nonprofit organizations and government agencies in Hawaii. Senator Hirono secured CDS funding for projects in every county in Hawaii, including military construction projects, community health organizations, projects to support Native Hawaiian communities, and more. The spending bill passed the Senate by a vote of 68-29, and now heads to the House, where it is expected to pass and be sent to President Biden to be signed into law. “This funding bill invests in our communities, our country, and our national defense,” said Senator Hirono. “I’m proud to have secured nearly $450 million in federal funding for projects across Hawaii as part of this bill. From protecting our environment, to strengthening our state’s emergency management capabilities, to supporting community health organizations and more, these projects will benefit people and communities across our state. I look forward to seeing this bill signed into law and these funds put to good use for the people of Hawaii.” A full list of the projects for which Senator Hirono secured CDS funding is below. Schofield Barracks - $111,000,000 To construct standard design Company Operations Facilities for four companies and Troop Aid Station. Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam - $103,350,000 To construct three box magazines for ordnance storage and improve perimeter security. Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) - $87,900,000 To provide the required enlisted personnel housing units to accommodate personnel stationed at MCBH. Fort Shafter - $38,000,000 To provide a Potable Water System for Hawaii’s Tripler Army Medical Center and for antiterrorism protection measures to enhance potable water system resiliency and security. Fort Shafter - $33,000,000 To construct two potable water wells and one above ground water storage tank, and to repl… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/house-passes-hirono-bill-to-study-designating-kaena-point-a-national-heritage-area | House Passes Hirono Bill to Study Designating Kaena Point a National Heritage Area | 2022-12-22 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Heritage Area Act, which includes the Kaena Point National Heritage Area Act, legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) to study designating Kaena Point on Oahu as a National Heritage Area, by a vote of 326-95. The legislation would require the Department of the Interior (DOI) to study the feasibility of designating Kaena Point, on Oahu, as a National Heritage Area. The National Heritage Area Act, S. 1942, passed the Senate unanimously earlier this week and now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “Kaena Point offers one of the last glimpses of undisturbed coastline in Hawaii and is home to numerous cultural, historical, and natural resources,” said Senator Hirono. “A National Heritage Area designation would bring much-needed federal support to maintain and manage Kaena Point, as well as protect the native and endangered species that inhabit the site. This bill will help preserve this precious ecosystem and ensure it can be appreciated for years to come.” The Kaena Point National Heritage Area Actdirects the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with state and local stakeholders, to study the possibility of designating Kaena Point as a National Heritage Area. It requires the study to be completed within 3 years and that upon completion the Secretary submit a report to Congress on the findings. The bill is supported by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. Representative Ed Case introduced the companion Kaena Point National Heritage Area Act, H.R. 1908, which passed the House of Representatives in March. A National Heritage Area designation would unlock federal resources to help elevate public awareness of Kaena Point and enhance management activities to protect cultural and natural resources for future generations. Kaena Point is currently managed by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and includes the second-most visited park on Oahu—Kaena Point State Park. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-bill-to-support-native-hawaiian-language-schools-and-programs-set-to-become-law | Schatz Bill To Support Native Hawaiian Language Schools And Programs Set To Become Law | 2022-12-22 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Native American Language Resource Center Act. The bipartisan legislation, authored by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, will bolster Native American language schools and programs with coordinated, experienced support. The bill now heads to the president’s desk to be signed into law. “As we have seen in Hawai‘i, Native speaker-led language programs have proven that culturally based instruction is key to revitalizing and maintaining indigenous knowledge and traditions,” said Senator Schatz. “The Native American Language Resource Center will build on this grassroots momentum to support Native American language schools and programs by providing them with the resources they need to continue to thrive.” The Native American Languages Resource Center will comprise a consortium of institutions housed at multiple locations throughout the country, reflecting the geographic diversity of Native American languages, cultures, and communities. It will support Native language students at all levels of learning, act as a central nexus for Native American language schools and programs across the nation, and provide additional resources to enhance distance learning capacity. The bill is supported by the National Congress of American Indians, National Indian Education Association, National Coalition of Native American Language Schools and Programs, Joint National Committee for Languages – National Council for Languages and International Studies, and the Hawaiian Language Renormalization Committee. In addition to the Native American Language Resource Center Act, Schatz’s Durbin Feeling Native American Languages Act is also set to become law. The bipartisan bill named after Durbin Feeling, a renowned Cherokee linguist and Vietnam veteran who passed away on August 19, 2020, will review and make recommendations to improve federal agencies’ coordination in support of Native American languages. It would also authori… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-federal-funding-for-hawaii-continues-to-increase | Schatz: Federal Funding For Hawai‘i Continues To Increase | 2022-12-22 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Senate passed the annual government funding bill which will increase federal funding for critical programs that benefit Hawai‘i. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), worked with his colleagues on the committee to successfully secure new and increased federal funding for Hawai‘i’s priorities. “We continue to see big increases in federal funding for Hawai‘i. This appropriations bill will give our state funding to grow our local economy, improve roads and public transit, protect our environment, and strengthen housing, education, and health care programs,” said Senator Schatz, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. The bill provides new funding for the Honolulu Rail Project and to defuel and shut down the Red Hill Bulk Storage Facility. It also will increase funding for transportation, housing, and clean energy projects, as well as Native Hawaiian health and education programs. The bill also includes more than a half a billion dollars in new earmark funding secured by Senator Schatz – more than double the amount he delivered to Hawai‘i last year. The bill is expected to pass the House of Representatives and be signed into law by the president by the end of the week. FUNDING HIGHLIGHTS FOR HAWAI‘I: Red Hill Recovery Fund – $1 billion, new funding. The Red Hill Recovery Fund will enable the Navy and Joint Task Force Red Hill to effectively defuel and shut down the Red Hill Bulk Storage Facility. The leak that contaminated the Navy’s public water system and neighboring communities affected thousands of residents. This funding will aim to also support the DoD’s ability to comply with the standards set in place by the State of Hawai‘i Department of Health (HDOH) which include the necessary oversight and improvements required to ensure that the facility is successfully defueled and closed. The Red Hill Recovery Fund will support ongoing environmental monitoring and he… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-legislation-extending-expanded-telehealth-services-set-to-become-law | Schatz Legislation Extending Expanded Telehealth Services Set To Become Law | 2022-12-22 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) secured the inclusion of provisions to the FY23 government funding bill that will temporarily extend access to expanded telehealth services. The provisions, which are from the Schatz-authored Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies (CONNECT) for Health Act, allow Medicare beneficiaries in all areas of the country to utilize telehealth services in their homes and allow more types of health care providers to provide telehealth. The bill passed the Senate today and is expected to pass the House of Representatives and be signed into law by the end of the week. “The last few years have proven that telehealth works. It has made it easier and safer for people to see their doctors and stay healthy,” said Senator Schatz. “While this extension is helpful, these changes should be made permanent. It’s time to pass the CONNECT for Health Act.” Expanded access of telehealth services was first made available in response to the COVID-19 pandemic but was limited to the emergency period. The two-year extension contains provisions from Senator Schatz’s CONNECT for Health Act, including: Removing geographic restrictions on telehealth services and allowing Medicare beneficiaries to access virtual care from their homes; and Allowing health centers and rural health clinics to provide telehealth services. The two-year telehealth extension follows a letter led by Senator Schatz earlier this month that called on congressional leaders to extend expanded coverage of telehealth services in this must-pass legislation. Schatz’s bipartisan and bicameral CONNECT for Health Act was first introduced in 2016. The bill, which is cosponsored by 64 senators, is considered the most comprehensive telehealth legislation in Congress. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-leads-senate-colleagues-in-urging-kaiser-permanente-to-come-to-a-good-faith-agreement-with-mental-health-workers-on-strike-in-hawaii | Hirono Leads Senate Colleagues in Urging Kaiser Permanente to Come to a Good Faith Agreement with Mental Health Workers on Strike in Hawaii | 2022-12-21 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) led 6 of her Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Kaiser Permanente CEO Greg Adams urging Kaiser to come to a good faith agreement with mental and behavioral health workers in the National Union of Healthcare Workers (NUHW) in Hawaii who have been on strike for 16 weeks. In the letter, the lawmakers urge the company to come to a good faith agreement for the sake of both the workers on strike and their patients, citing recent agreements Kaiser has reached with union workers in other states. “More than ever, health systems with the kind of market penetration Kaiser has in Hawaii should be working to ensure patients receive the timely, medically-necessary mental health services essential for protecting the wellbeing of our communities,” write the lawmakers. “This level of care requires retaining the current skilled workforce and recruiting new talent into the state—not engaging in years-long contract disputes. These workers deserve a fair wage, and patients deserve dependable, quality care.” Since August, nearly 60 mental health workers employed by Kaiser Permanente across Hawaii—including psychologists, clinical social workers, and nurses—have been on strike, citing low staff levels and long wait times for patients. “While your company has, for nearly five years, refused to negotiate in good faith a reasonable salary and workload demands for 57 employees, Kaiser Permanente reported a record $8.1 billion in net income in 2021. We ask that you take time this holiday season to consider the workers on which your company and patients depend and finalize a contract,” the lawmakers conclude. In addition to Senator Hirono, the letter was also signed by Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Richard J. Durbin (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Chris Coons (D-DE). Last year, Senator Hirono joined Sen. Sanders and several of their Senate colleagues in urging Kaiser to reach an agreement with more than 30,000 health care… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-secures-more-than-half-a-billion-dollars-in-new-earmark-funding-for-hawaii-non-profits-local-projects | Schatz Secures More Than Half A Billion Dollars In New Earmark Funding For Hawai‘i Non-Profits, Local Projects | 2022-12-21 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, secured $530 million in new congressional directed spending, also known as earmarks, in this year’s government funding bill. At $530 million, Schatz’s earmark total this year more than doubles last fiscal year’s amount. “We are bringing home more than a half a billion dollars in new earmark funding,” said Senator Schatz. “These earmarks will give local non-profits and projects more resources to serve communities across Hawai‘i.” As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Schatz worked with congressional leaders to ensure Hawai‘i received its fair share of federal earmark funding. EARMARKS SECURED BY SENATOR SCHATZ INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: ‘Aha Punana Leo – $1,126,000 Funding will support the Punana Leo statewide Hawaiian medium early childhood language education system. (Schatz and Hirono joint request) County of Kaua‘i Housing Agency – $7,772,000 Funding will support the construction of 145 affordable homes in Kaua‘i’s Lima Ola Community. Senator Schatz and Senator Hirono secured a joint $8.49 million earmark in 2022 for the Lima Ola Community. City and County of Honolulu – $11,987,000 Funding will support the construction of three communally governed affordable housing projects in Honolulu, Waimanalo, and Wahiawa. Each project will provide temporary housing and services to 80-100 people. The Food Basket (Hawai‘i Island) – $1,600,000 Funding will be used to develop an agriculture innovation park and food systems campus in Hilo to provide safe, nutritious, fair, and affordable food to residents in the region. Waimanalo Health Center – $2,000,000 Funding will be used for the construction of a new expansion facility providing oral health, vision, and nutritional services to the community of Waimanalo and throughout Ko?olaupoko. (Schatz, Hirono, and Kahele joint request) County of Maui – $11,000,000 Funding will support the construction of a communi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/06/22/2023/hirono-colleagues-urge-dod-to-protect-military-families-rights-and-end-use-of-nefarious-non-disclosure-agreements-by-private-military-housing-contractors | Hirono, Colleagues Urge DoD to Protect Military Families’ Rights and End Use of “Nefarious” Non-Disclosure Agreements by Private Military Housing Contractors | 2022-12-20 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) joined Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) in sending a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin expressing concern over reports that military families are being forced to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with privatized military housing companies in order to receive compensation for poor housing conditions. In the letter, the lawmakers urge the Department of Defense (DoD) to put an end to these practices. “The use of NDAs leaves tenants who were provided with unsafe or unhealthy housing conditions forced to choose between receiving compensation for those atrocious conditions and forever remaining silent about their experiences or telling their story and having to pay out of their own pockets for safe housing conditions. Furthermore, it allows the private housing companies to evade responsibility for their failures. These are unacceptable outcomes,” the lawmakers wrote. Congress has a clear record of opposing any requirements for military families to sign NDAs for on base housing. The Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) included a provision requiring companies to notify and receive approval from DoD—when a landlord uses a non-disclosure agreement. The law also makes clear that current or prospective tenants cannot be required to sign NDAs “in connection with entering into, continuing, or terminating a lease for the housing unit,” and that, “any such agreement against the interests of the tenant is invalid.” Despite these reforms, it appears the use of NDAs has not stopped. Reports from advocates for safer military housing revealed that military families are still being forced to sign NDAs in order to receive compensation for on-base rental housing that is unsafe or unhealthy, and Senator Warren’s office obtained copies of NDAs that Balfour Beatty Communities and Liberty Military Housing forced on military families. One NDA was required by Balfour Beatty… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-schatz-secures-85-million-to-address-national-housing-crisis-help-build-more-affordable-housing | Schatz Secures $85 Million To Address National Housing Crisis, Help Build More Affordable Housing | 2022-12-20 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today secured the inclusion of a new $85 million grant program based on his bipartisan ‘Yes In My Backyard’ legislation in the fiscal year 2023 appropriations bill. The bill establishes a new federal program to reward state and local governments that reform land-use policies and other local barriers that constrain the supply of affordable housing. “We need to legalize housing, and abandon the exclusionary zoning that originated during Jim Crow and continues today. Government needs to change its mentality from intentionally constraining the supply of housing to incentivizing it,” said Senator Schatz, Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. For decades, local zoning and land use regulations as well as lack of necessary housing-related infrastructure have prevented housing production from keeping pace with population and economic growth, resulting in a nationwide housing shortage. The new $85 million federal grant program will help reverse this trend by rewarding state, local, and regional jurisdictions that address exclusionary zoning practices, land use policies, and housing infrastructure to increase the supply of affordable housing. These policies include increasing density, reducing minimum lot sizes, creating transit-oriented development zones, streamlining or shortening permitting processes and timeline, expanding by-right multifamily zoned areas, allowing accessory dwelling units on lots with single family homes, eliminating or relaxing residential property height limitations, and donating vacant land for affordable housing development. Schatz first introduced the Yes in My Backyard Act in 2019 with U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.). It was re-introduced last year, and has the support of more than 250 organizations. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-1-billion-to-defuel-shut-down-red-hill-included-in-appropriations-bill | Schatz: $1 Billion To Defuel, Shut Down Red Hill Included In Appropriations Bill | 2022-12-20 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today announced that the annual appropriations bill includes $1 billion to defuel and permanently close the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. “This is new federal funding to drain and permanently shut down Red Hill. We still have more work to do to make sure Red Hill is closed as quickly and safely as possible, and now we have even more resources to help in that effort,” said Senator Schatz, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Earlier this year, Schatz secured millions in federal funding to defuel, permanently close the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility, and clean up contaminated water in the affected areas. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-secures-nearly-64-million-in-new-funding-for-honolulu-rail-project | Schatz Secures Nearly $64 Million In New Funding For Honolulu Rail Project | 2022-12-20 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today announced that he has secured $63.8 million in new funding for the Honolulu Rail Transit Project. As chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, Schatz worked with congressional leaders to steer nearly $64 million to the rail project in Honolulu. The new money, which will be used to cover inflationary cost increases, is in addition to the remaining federal funding that the Federal Transit Administration has already committed to the project. “The federal government has already committed millions of dollars into the rail project, so finding new money was no easy task. We fought hard to make sure Hawai‘i gets its fair share of federal dollars, and this new money will give HART more resources to cover inflationary costs and finally get this project up and running for the people of Honolulu,” said Senator Schatz, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-hawaii-congressional-delegation-calls-for-independent-investigation-into-toxic-afff-leaks-at-red-hill | Hirono, Hawaii Congressional Delegation Calls for Independent Investigation Into Toxic AFFF Leaks at Red Hill | 2022-12-19 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) and U.S. Representatives Ed Case (D-HI) and Kai Kahele (D-HI) in calling for a congressionally-initiated independent investigation into how the Department of Defense and the Department of the Navy have responded to PFAS-based contamination events at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility, including the recent leak of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF). “The November 29th leak of a fire suppression system at the Red Hill complex that spilled over 1,100 gallons of AFFF into the environment, as well as other previous PFAS contamination events affecting Red Hill and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH), have potentially exposed the community surrounding the Red Hill complex to enduring threats to their health. This community and the people of Hawai‘i deserve answers regarding how the Navy undertook efforts to address these incidents and complete the clean-up and remediation of impacted sites,” the delegation wrote in a letter to Gene Dodaro, the Comptroller General of the Government Accountability Office. The delegation continued, “we urge you to use the resources and tools available to you to conduct a rigorous and data-driven investigation to provide transparency on these response efforts and provide recommendations on required improvements that will protect impacted communities.” The full text of the letter is available here and below. Comptroller General Dodaro, We write urging an immediate investigation into the procedures and practices utilized by the Department of Defense and the Department of Navy to protect human health and the environment from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility complex (Red Hill). Both Departments use compounds containing PFAS, such as aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), at Red Hill, and the recent events in Hawai‘i demonstrate the need for a thorough audit to ensure that Hawai‘i’s people, land,… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hawaii-congressional-delegation-calls-for-independent-investigation-into-toxic-afff-leaks-at-red-hill | Hawai‘i Congressional Delegation Calls For Independent Investigation Into Toxic AFFF Leaks At Red Hill | 2022-12-19 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawai‘i) and U.S. Representatives Ed Case (D-Hawai‘i) and Kai Kahele (D-Hawai‘i) today called for a congressionally-initiated independent investigation into how the Department of Defense and the Department of the Navy have responded to PFAS-based contamination events at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility, including the recent leak of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF). The delegation also pushed for answers on recent reporting that alleges the Navy withheld key information on a previous leak of the toxic chemical. “The November 29th leak of a fire suppression system at the Red Hill complex that spilled over 1,100 gallons of AFFF into the environment, as well as other previous PFAS contamination events affecting Red Hill and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH), have potentially exposed the community surrounding the Red Hill complex to enduring threats to their health. This community and the people of Hawai‘i deserve answers regarding how the Navy undertook efforts to address these incidents and complete the clean-up and remediation of impacted sites,” the delegation wrote in a letter to Gene Dodaro, the Comptroller General of the Government Accountability Office. The delegation continued, “we urge you to use the resources and tools available to you to conduct a rigorous and data-driven investigation to provide transparency on these response efforts and provide recommendations on required improvements that will protect impacted communities.” The full text of the letter can be found below and is available here. Comptroller General Dodaro, We write urging an immediate investigation into the procedures and practices utilized by the Department of Defense and the Department of Navy to protect human health and the environment from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility complex (Red Hill). Both Departments use compounds containing PFAS, such as aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), at Red Hill, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-dhhl-to-receive-more-than-17-million-to-expand-high-speed-internet-in-native-hawaiian-communities | Schatz: DHHL To Receive More Than $17 Million To Expand High-Speed Internet In Native Hawaiian Communities | 2022-12-19 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today announced that the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) will receive $17.3 million in new federal funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce to expand high-speed internet access in Native Hawaiian communities. “This funding will increase broadband internet access in Native Hawaiian communities across the state, helping families and small businesses get the high-speed internet they need and supporting the expansion of important services, including telehealth and remote learning,” said Senator Schatz, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. The funding comes from the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program, which expands broadband access on Tribal lands. It will include new broadband equipment and software, new computers and personal devices, support for increased remote learning, telehealth, and digital inclusion programs, and staff to ensure their successful implementation. Funding will also support a DHHL survey of Native Hawaiian households, with the data gathered used to help develop a statewide collective broadband strategy. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-rubio-legislation-to-protect-coral-reefs-set-to-become-law | Schatz-Rubio Legislation To Protect Coral Reefs Set To Become Law | 2022-12-16 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Last night, the U.S. Senate passed the Restoring Resilient Reefs Act, bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) that will help protect coral reefs and advance coral reef stewardship. The legislation was included in the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and now heads to the president’s desk to be signed into law. “Our coral reefs have been pushed to the brink of extinction, and we need to act now to save them. Our bill, which is now set to become law, puts federal funding in the hands of states and territories to manage and restore the coral reefs that our communities, oceans, and coasts depend on,” said Senator Schatz. “I saw firsthand the devastated condition of our coral reefs when I toured the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, and I promised a comprehensive response. This new law will ensure federal agencies are partnering effectively with state and local governments and non-governmental organizations to restore our dwindling coral reefs. The Florida communities that rely on the health of these critical ecosystems cannot be left behind. This is a pivotal moment in the battle to save our corals and protect our coastal communities,” said Senator Rubio. The Restoring Resilient Reefs Act increases authorizations for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Coral Reef Program from $16 million to $45 million annually. This landmark legislation also authorizes a state block grant program for $12 million annually to support state efforts to manage and restore coral reefs, and $4.5 million annually for Pacific and Atlantic coral reef cooperative institutes. Together, these provisions represent a major step forward for coral reef stewardship. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-colleagues-introduce-the-right-to-private-conduct-act | Hirono, Colleagues Introduce the Right to Private Conduct Act | 2022-12-15 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined eight of her Democratic colleagues in introducing the Right to Private Conduct Act, a bill to protect the rights to privacy and liberty granted by the Supreme Court decision Lawrence v. Texas. This legislation would prevent any person acting under color of State law from inhibiting an individual’s right to engage in private, non-commercial, consensual sexual conduct between adults. “As the far-right majority on the Supreme Court works to overturn fundamental rights, this legislation will protect the right to privacy for consenting adults,” said Senator Hirono. The landmark Lawrence v. Texas ruling established the right of all adult couples to be free from unwarranted state intrusion into their personal decisions about consensual sexual relationships; a major victory for civil rights that invalidated arcane sodomy laws and paved the way for marriage equality. Prior to Lawrence, sodomy laws allowed law enforcement and community members to violate individual privacy by reporting suspected sexual activity. Although the policing of private spaces affected all individuals and couples, sodomy laws disproportionately targeted and criminalized members of the LGBTQ community, barring individuals from access to employment, housing, parental rights, adoption and foster parenting, and protection from to civil rights law. In the years since the ruling, Lawrence has served as a cornerstone of the emerging legal field of sexual privacy, one which governs laws regarding sexual autonomy, consent, intimacy, and human dignity. In this era of increased concerns surrounding data privacy, it is critical that all Americans maintain those protected rights. In addition to Senator Hirono, the bill was introduced by U.S. Representatives Mark Takano (D-CA), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Chris Pappas (D-NH), Mondaire Jones (D-NY), Katie Porter (D-CA), and Dwight Evans (D-PA), and Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT). Thi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-national-defense-authorization-act-containing-hirono-led-provisions-to-provide-1-billion-to-close-red-hill-nearly-800-million-to-upgrade-military-infrastructure-in-hawaii | Senate Passes National Defense Authorization Act Containing Hirono-Led Provisions to Provide $1 Billion to Close Red Hill, Nearly $800 Million to Upgrade Military Infrastructure in Hawaii | 2022-12-15 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, voted to pass the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which included key provisions she secured, including $1 billion for the defueling and closure of Red Hill and nearly $800 million for other military infrastructure upgrades in Hawaii. The NDAA—which passed the House by a vote of 350-80 last week—also included Senator Hirono’s legislation to electrify all of the military’s non-tactical vehicles by 2035. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 83-11 and now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “Today, the Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act,” said Senator Hirono. “As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, my priority in NDAA—first and foremost—has been to safely close Red Hill. I’m proud that I successfully secured $1 billion in this year’s NDAA for that purpose—and that this legislation now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. I will continue to work with the Department of Defense to ensure that Red Hill is closed safely and quickly. In addition to closing Red Hill, this bill contains nearly $800 million I fought to secure to safeguard and modernize critical military infrastructure in Hawaii, and across the region, in order to protect families and ensure INDOPACOM meets its mission of enhancing stability in our region. I will keep fighting for families and servicemembers across Hawaii.” More information on the military provisions Senator Hirono secured is available below: Red Hill Authorizes $1 billion in funding for the Red Hill Recovery Fund. Authorizes the closure of the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility on Oahu and $1 billion in funding to support the closure. Develops plans for Directs the Department of Defense (DoD) to appoint a single point of contact to lead the closure of Red Hill and conduct an independent assessment of optimal post-closure care for the Red Hill facility. Establishes a water mon… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-provisions-to-improve-volcanic-warning-system-protect-coral-reefs-passes-senate-set-to-become-law | Schatz Provisions To Improve Volcanic Warning System, Protect Coral Reefs Passes Senate, Set To Become Law | 2022-12-15 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate today passed the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included several provisions authored by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i). Schatz’s provisions included measures to protect coral reefs, improve the nation’s volcanic warning system, and stop the cruel practice of killing sharks for their fins. The NDAA bill now heads to president’s desk to be signed into law. The NDAA bill includes the bipartisan Restoring Resilient Reefs Act which was authored by Schatz and U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). The landmark bill increases authorizations for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Coral Reef Program from $16 million to $45 million annually. It also authorizes a state block grant program for $12 million annually to support state efforts to manage and restore coral reefs, and $4.5 million annually for Pacific and Atlantic coral reef cooperative institutes. The provision’s passage with the NDAA is a major step forward for coral reef stewardship. “Our coral reefs have been pushed to the brink of extinction, and we need to act now to save them. Our bill, which is now set to become law, puts federal funding in the hands of states and territories to manage and restore the coral reefs that our communities, oceans, and coasts depend on,” said Senator Schatz. Schatz also authored the Volcanic Ash and Fumes Act and secured its inclusion into NDAA. The bipartisan bill updates the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Volcanic Early Warning System by requiring NOAA to share volcanic gas and ash dispersal models to be incorporated into the warning system, keeping responders, residents, and aviation safe during volcanic eruptions and their aftermath. Schatz continued, “Hawai‘i has six active volcanoes, including Mauna Loa and Kīlauea. As we all know in Hawai‘i, volcanic eruptions can be a real danger, so improving our warning systems can make a difference in keeping people safe. Our bipartisan bill, which is set to become law, is a common-sense step to ma… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-urges-dod-to-step-up-efforts-to-help-those-experiencing-health-issues-from-red-hill-water-contamination | Schatz Urges DoD To Step Up Efforts To Help Those Experiencing Health Issues From Red Hill Water Contamination | 2022-12-15 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today called on the Department of Defense to step up its efforts to assist people experiencing health issues as a result of water contamination from the Red Hill fuel leak. “Protecting the health and safety of service members and their families is the sacred obligation of the Department of Defense, and the water contamination of the community water system at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam was a breach of trust. DoD must use all tools at its disposal to ensure that all people who were exposed have access to the medical assessments and treatments they need today and in the future, including service members, military family members, DoD civilian employees, DoD contractors, and civilians who are not DoD-affiliated,” Schatz wrote in his letter to Gilbert Cisneros, the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. In his letter, Schatz urged the DoD to provide additional health care resources and benefits to all those impacted, including non-Military Health System beneficiaries. Schatz also called for transparency and more details on the chemicals those impacted may have been exposed to, and a long-term health study to help provide key medical data to those affected and their doctors. The full text of Schatz’s letter can be found below and is available here. Dear Mr. Cisneros: As we recently marked one year since the Red Hill fuel leak, I write to you with concern about the ongoing public health impacts of this crisis. Protecting the health and safety of service members and their families is the sacred obligation of the Department of Defense, and the water contamination of the community water system at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam was a breach of trust. DoD must use all tools at its disposal to ensure that all people who were exposed have access to the medical assessments and treatments they need today and in the future, including service members, military family members, DoD civilian employees, DoD contractors, and civilians who are not DoD-affiliated… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-house-passes-hirono-legislation-to-support-native-hawaiian-survivors-of-gender-based-violence | VIDEO: House Passes Hirono Legislation to Support Native Hawaiian Survivors of Gender-Based Violence | 2022-12-14 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) to allow Native Hawaiian survivors of gender-based violence to access critical programs and resources provided by Congress through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). The reauthorization of VAWA—which was signed into law in March, 2022—provides funding to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, sex-trafficking, dating violence and stalking. Senator Hirono’s legislation amends the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) to ensure Native Hawaiian organizations can actually serve the Native Hawaiian community. The bill, which passed in the Senate unanimously earlier this month, passed in the House on a voice vote and now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “For decades, Congress has provided funding to support survivors of gender-based violence through the Violence Against Women Act, including Native women who experience disproportionately high levels of sexual violence,” said Senator Hirono. “However—unlike American Indian and Alaska Native women—Native Hawaiian women have been unjustly excluded from accessing much-needed resources provided through VAWA. I’ve been focused on making the necessary changes for years to ensure that Native Hawaiian organizations can finally serve the Native Hawaiian community. And I’m proud that today, my bill to amend VAWA passed the House and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Now, Native Hawaiian survivors will actually be able to access the support they need and deserve, and Native Hawaiian organizations will be able to do even more in the fight to end sexual violence.” Native women across the country—including American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women—experience disproportionately high levels of sexual violence. Therefore, VAWA includes Services, Training, Officers Prosecutors (STOP) grants to provide funding for eligible Native-serving non-profits, including Native Hawaiian organizations, to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-leads-bipartisan-group-of-senators-in-urging-brazilian-president-elect-luiz-inacio-lula-da-silva-to-combat-deforestation-work-with-us-global-partners | Schatz Leads Bipartisan Group Of Senators In Urging Brazilian President-Elect Luiz Inácio Lula Da Silva To Combat Deforestation, Work With U.S., Global Partners | 2022-12-14 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today led a bipartisan group of senators in urging Brazilian president-elect Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to work with American and global leaders to prevent deforestation of the Amazon rainforest and help fight climate change. Citing Lula’s public commitments to protect the Amazon, the senators expressed their interest in working with him and the National Congress of Brazil to restore protections against illegal deforestation. “The Brazilian Amazon is one of the world’s most important carbon sinks, and its preservation is of vital importance not just to Brazil, but also to the United States and countries around the world,” the senators wrote to the president-elect. “Your track record is an indication of your ability to restore robust enforcement of your country’s Forest Code when you assume the presidency. We also appreciate the challenges you face in reversing a multi-year trend of lax law enforcement amid opposition from powerful interests. We are eager to work with your administration and the international community as you undertake this crucial work that has implications for the entire global community.” Schatz previously introduced the FOREST Act, bipartisan legislation which creates a framework for the federal government to deter commodity-driven illegal deforestation around the world. Deforestation accounts for roughly 10 percent of human-caused carbon emissions globally, and scientists have warned in recent years that the Amazon is reaching a dangerous tipping point amid escalating deforestation. Protecting the Amazon from deforestation will help prevent the most destructive climate change scenarios while supporting biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. In addition to Schatz, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Chris Coons (D-Del.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.). The full text of the letter can be found below and is available here. Dear Mr. President-elect: We write to congratulate you on your victory and express our desire to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-takano-blumenthal-introduce-legislation-to-protect-sexual-privacy-stop-targeted-government-attacks-on-lgbtq-rights | Schatz, Takano, Blumenthal Introduce Legislation To Protect Sexual Privacy, Stop Targeted Government Attacks On LGBTQ+ Rights | 2022-12-14 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif.) introduced the Right to Private Conduct Act, a bill to protect the rights to privacy and liberty granted by the Supreme Court decision in Lawrence v. Texas. The legislation would prevent any person acting under color of law from inhibiting an individual’s right to engage in private, non-commercial, consensual sexual conduct between adults. “Our bill makes one thing clear: what goes on between consenting adults in their private lives is their business, not the government’s,” said Senator Schatz. “The Supreme Court has grown senseless in their attacks on our rights. As it stands, millions of Americans could see a rollback of their protected rights to make their own personal decisions about fundamentally private matters,” said Representative Takano. “While the threat to reconsider the current interpretations of privacy and liberty affects everyone, it disproportionately affects the LGBTQ+ community. The government has no right to interfere in the sexual relations of any consenting adult, and the Right to Private Conduct Act will finally enshrine this belief into federal law.” “This measure will counter the Supreme Court’s ongoing attacks on privacy and personal freedom. As extreme justices and judges attempt to roll-back the ability of Americans to make their own decisions about their bodies and their futures, I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Right to Private Conduct Act,” said Senator Blumenthal. “This legislation will protect all Americans, including the LGBTQ+ community, from invasive government overreach in Americans’ most personal, intimate decisions.” The landmark Lawrence v. Texas ruling established the right of all adult couples to be free from unwarranted state intrusion into their personal decisions about consensual sexual relationships – a major victory for civil rights that invalidated arcane sodomy laws and paved the way for marriage equality. P… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-joins-president-biden-for-signing-of-respect-for-marriage-act | Hirono Joins President Biden For Signing of Respect for Marriage Act | 2022-12-13 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) joined President Biden at the White House as he signed the Respect for Marriage Act into law. The bipartisan legislation, which Senator Hirono cosponsored and helped to pass last month, protects marriage equality for same-sex and interracial couples in federal law. “Being able to marry who you want, regardless of race or gender, is a fundamental right, which is why I was proud to vote to protect same-sex and interracial marriages at the federal level,” said Senator Hirono. “The Respect for Marriage Act provides long overdue assurance for married couples that their unions will remain legal and protected, and I am glad that President Biden signed it into law today. I will continue working to ensure that every person in our country can live safely and openly as their authentic selves.” The Respect for Marriage Act is bipartisan, bicameral legislation—cosponsored by Senator Hirono—to protect marriage equality in federal law. Specifically, the Respect for Marriage Act would: Require the federal government to recognize a marriage between two individuals if the marriage was valid in the state where it was performed; and Guarantee that valid marriages between two individuals are given full faith and credit, regardless of the couple’s sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin, but the bill would not require a State to issue a marriage license contrary to state law. Senator Hirono has been a consistent champion for LGBTQ+ rights. Earlier this year, she introduced a resolution recognizing June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month and took to the Senate floor to block Senate Republicans’ attempt to pass anti-transgender legislation to ban trans women and girls from participating in sports consistent with their gender. In March, Senator Hirono also introduced a resolution with her Senate colleagues recognizing International Transgender Day of Visibility. She is also a sponsor of the Equality Act, legislation which would extend federal civil rights protections to LGBTQ+ indivi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/house-passed-national-defense-authorization-acts-includes-hirono-bills-to-protect-coral-reefs-reconnect-families-separated-by-korean-war | House-Passed National Defense Authorization Acts Includes Hirono Bills to Protect Coral Reefs, Reconnect Families Separated by Korean War | 2022-12-09 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), secured the text of two bills she sponsored in the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (FY23 NDAA), which passed the House earlier this week by a vote of 350-80 and now heads to the Senate for consideration, where it is expected to pass with broad support and become law. The NDAA includes the text of Senator Hirono’s Coral Reef Sustainability Through Innovation Act, bipartisan legislation to help protect coral reef ecosystems, as well as the text of her Korean War Divided Families Reunification Act, bipartisan legislation to establish a formal process to help Korean American families reunite with family members that remain in North Korea. As a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Hirono also secured numerous defense-related provisions in the FY23 NDAA, including $1 billion for the closure of the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility on Oahu, as well as nearly $800 million for other military infrastructure projects across Hawaii. Introduced earlier this month, Senator Hirono’s Coral Reef Sustainability Through Innovation Act is a bipartisan bill to help protect coral reef ecosystems in Hawaii and across the nation from increasing threats such as climate change, pollution, and direct damage from humans. The legislation directs the federal agencies that are members of the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force to establish, individually or with one or more other agencies, a coral health prize competition in order to spur innovative solutions to preserve, sustain, and restore coral reef ecosystems at no additional cost to taxpayers. “Coral reefs are critical to Hawaii’s environment and provide tens of billions of dollars in economic value to the American people,” said Senator Hirono. “With threats like climate change and pollution endangering the continued existence of coral reefs, it’s critical we invest in innovative solutions to protect and revive these vital marine ecosystems. The federal prize competitions this bill creates will h… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1006 | U.S. House Passes Annual Defense Authorization Bill To Further Address Red Hill Fuel Crisis Including Health Impacts | 2022-12-08 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | House | HI | Ed Case | C001055 | case.house.gov | case | https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=16 | scraper | (Washington, DC) – Congressman Ed Case (HI-01) announced that the full U.S. House has approved the $847.3 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), including his priorities relating to closing Red Hill, strengthening America’s national defense in the Indo-Pacific and improving the Department of Defense’s (DoD) relationship with the local community. The bill retains nine floor amendments introduced by Case and approved during earlier House consideration. “Through the FY 2023 NDAA, the Hawai‘i Congressional delegation reaffirms our efforts to ensure the closure of Red Hill and ensure transparency in the defueling, closure and remediation process. Equally important, it reinforces the importance of tracking the long-term health of those affected by the crisis,” said Case. The bill’s Red Hill provisions include: · Requiring the Navy to issue a publicly available report every quarter on the status of the effort to close the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. · Directing the DoD to determine the need, number and optimal locations of additional sentinel or monitoring wells to detect and track the movement of fuel that has leaked into the ground, in coordination with the United States Geological Survey. · Requiring the DoD to conduct a hydrology study around Red Hill and assess how best to address the water needs on O‘ahu and mitigate water shortages, to include water treatment plants or the placement of a new drinking water shaft. · Directing the DoD to track the long-term health implications of fuel leaks from Red Hill for members of the armed forces and their dependents in conjunction with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and Hawai‘i Department of Health. The bill also supports Case’s continued efforts to strengthen the military’s community engagement efforts as it works to rebuild trust with the people of Hawai‘i following the Red Hill fuel leaks. “The military must do everything it can to earn back trust from our communities,” said Case. “This can only be done by… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1007 | Case Announces Passage Of Most Consequential Oceans Legislation In Decades | 2022-12-08 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | House | HI | Ed Case | C001055 | case.house.gov | case | https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=17 | scraper | (Washington, DC) – Congressman Ed Case (HI-01) announced that the full U.S. House passed a package of oceans bills included in the annual National Defense Authorization Act that include his longtime efforts to conserve coral reefs, protect marine mammals and better understand marine ecosystems. “From warmer temperatures and acidification to nonpoint-source pollution, trash, overfishing and beyond, our oceans are on an unsustainable path and desperately need our help to save them,” said Case, a member of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources with jurisdiction over federal ocean programs, as well as the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations and of its Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science which oversees and funds many such programs. “This legislation not only focuses attention on our oceans, but also commits resources to effectively respond to the concerns which is critical not just to our island home but to the global environment as well.” “Hawaii’s oceans and coral reefs are in dire need of investment to sustain their future in the face of climate change,” said Suzanne Case, Chair of the Hawai‘i State Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR). “DLNR is very grateful for our delegation’s strong leadership and Congress’s commitment to conserving Hawaii’s oceans and coral reefs.” Chair Case continued: “The Ocean and Coral Reef Legislation will be a major boost to Hawaii’s coral reef conservation program to help sustain Hawaii’s reefs to protect our shorelines and support thriving fisheries, ecosystems, and our economy.” The package includes a number of bills that Congressman Case helped draft, introduced and advance in the House Natural Resources Committee, including the Coral Reef Sustainability through Innovation Act and the Restoring Resilient Reefs Act. Overall, the package will help advance: Coral Reef Conservation These titles reauthorize and amend the Coral Reef Conservation Act to better address climate change, ecosystem loss, disease outbreaks and other threats to corals. In ad… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-secures-1-billion-to-close-red-hill-nearly-800-million-to-upgrade-military-infrastructure-in-hawaii-in-house-passed-national-defense-authorization-act | Hirono Secures $1 Billion to Close Red Hill, Nearly $800 Million to Upgrade Military Infrastructure in Hawaii in House Passed National Defense Authorization Act | 2022-12-08 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), today applauded House passage of the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which included key provisions she secured as a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), including $1 billion for the defueling and closure of Red Hill and nearly $800 million for other military infrastructure upgrades in Hawaii. The NDAA—which passed the House by a vote of 350-80 and now heads to Senate for final passage—also included Senator Hirono’s legislation to electrify all of the military’s non-tactical vehicles by 2035. “As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, my priority in NDAA—first and foremost—has been to safely close Red Hill. I’m proud that I successfully secured $1 billion in this year’s NDAA for that purpose. In addition to Red Hill, families and servicemembers in Hawaii continue to bear the brunt of other aging and poorly maintained military infrastructure. I fought to secure over $800 million to safeguard and modernize critical infrastructure in Hawaii and across the region in order to protect families and ensure INDOPACOM meets its mission of enhancing stability in our region,” said Senator Hirono. “While DoD works to modernize its infrastructure, Congress has a responsibility to reduce the government’s carbon emissions. That’s why we included language to require the Defense Department to transition its non-combat vehicle fleet to electric and other zero-emissions vehicles by 2035. There’s still a lot of work to do reduce the military’s dependence on oil and reduce our emissions, but this bill is a step in the right direction.” More information on the military provisions Senator Hirono secured is available below: Red Hill Authorizes $1 billion in funding for the Red Hill Recovery Fund. Authorizes the closure of the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility on Oahu and $1 billion in funding to support the closure. Develops plans for Directs the DOD to appoint a single point of contact to lead the closure of Red Hill… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-elevated-in-senate-democratic-leadership-to-deputy-conference-secretary | Schatz Elevated In Senate Democratic Leadership To Deputy Conference Secretary | 2022-12-08 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – The Senate Democratic Caucus today voted to elevate U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) to Deputy Conference Secretary, a new position within the Senate Democratic leadership team. Schatz was nominated for the new role by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). In addition to the new leadership position, Schatz will retain his role as Chief Deputy Whip. “I’m honored to serve in this new leadership role,” said Senator Schatz. “We have more work to do in the Senate, and this new post puts me in a better position to help shape and defend our priorities. I look forward to working with Leader Schumer and our leadership team on building a stronger future for Hawai‘i and our country.” Winning more than 71 percent of the vote in Hawai‘i this year, Schatz was re-elected to the Senate in November with the largest margin of victory of any Senate candidate in 2022. “From the American Rescue Plan to bipartisan gun safety legislation, CHIPS and Science, Inflation Reduction Act, and more, the last two years have been about addressing the unprecedented challenges facing our country and where possible achieving bipartisan solutions. The American people have chosen progress and democracy, and our caucus will continue to provide the leadership necessary to provide relief to working families grappling with the health and economic aftereffects of the COVID crisis, worsening income inequality, and more. I look forward to leveraging the expertise of our diverse caucus, and as America confronts increasingly dark forces seeking to undermine the very roots of our democracy, it is all the more important that we never lose sight of what is important – improving the lives of American families,” said Leader Schumer. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1003 | Case Announces Nominations To Nation's Service Academies For Incoming '23 Class | 2022-12-07 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | House | HI | Ed Case | C001055 | case.house.gov | case | https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=17 | scraper | (Honolulu, HI) - Congressman Ed Case (HI-01) today announced his 2023 nominations to three of our nation’s service academies: the U.S. Military Academy (West Point/Army); U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis/Navy); and the U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs/Air Force). “I take my responsibility to nominate deserving applicants from my district to our legendary service academies very seriously, and personally interviewed all of my nominees before making my decisions,” said Case. “I was truly impressed with the applicants, and it was very encouraging and rewarding to have spent time with our next generation of military leaders.” Case named the following nominees to three service academies: United States Air Force Academy Ah Yo, Xavier (Punahou) Akiyama, Owen (Kamehameha) Gotsch, Kota (Kaiser) Hoskins, Harrison (Radford) Kimura, Jaren (Mililani) Kwak, Justin (Punahou) Martinez, Kyle Dominic (Leilehua) Tanioka, Mia (Iolani) Wadolowski, Jack (Kadena) Zaa, Logan (Kamehameha) United States Military Academy at West Point Ah Yo, Xavier (Punahou) Akiyama, Owen (Kamehameha) Benchoff, Jonathan (Radford) Ellazar, Ivan Oliver (Farrington) Henderson, Danielle (Moanalua) Hoskins, Harrison (Radford) Kwak, Justin (Punahou) Lee, Luke (Punahou) Tanaka, Steinar (Kaiser) Ushiroda, Kennedy (Roosevelt) United States Naval Academy Allman, Stanton (Radford) Durkin, Matias (Radford) Ellazar, Ivan Oliver (Farrington) Ines, Camden (Campbell) Kimura, Jaren (Mililani) Lentz, William (St. Louis) Matsuzaki, Corin (Punahou) Panganiban, Anthony Joseph (Maryknoll) Tanaka, Steinar (Kaiser) Wadolowski, Jack (Kadena) For the Class of 2023, Case interviewed 22 candidates from among nine public and five private schools. Members of Congress are authorized by law to nominate candidates to the four United States Service Academies (Case had no nominees this year for the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York). The Coast Guard Academy at New London, Connecticut does not require a Congressional nomination for appo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/biden-signs-hirono-led-legislation-to-protect-survivors-of-sexual-assault-and-harassment-into-law | Biden Signs Hirono-Led Legislation to Protect Survivors of Sexual Assault and Harassment Into Law | 2022-12-07 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Joseph R. Biden signed the Speak Out Act into law, legislation co-led by Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY). This bipartisan, bicameral bill will limit the enforceability of non-disclosure agreements and non-disparagement agreements (NDAs) where a sexual harassment or sexual assault dispute arises and survivors wish to break their silence, and was also co-led by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC). The bill passed the Senate unanimously in September and passed the House last month. The House companion bill was introduced by Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL) and Ken Buck (R-CO). “Today, President Biden signed the Speak Out Act into law. Going forward, pre-dispute NDA's will no longer be able to silence survivors of sexual assault or harassment. I'm proud we got this done,” said Senator Hirono. “I will continue working to help ensure all survivors get the protection and support they deserve.” Prior to the Speak Out Act, individuals and organizations could use NDAs to prevent survivors of sexual harassment or assault from speaking publicly about these incidents. The threat of legal retaliation created and enabled a culture of silence that allowed predators to continue their illegal conduct, while their victims were forced out of their careers and the workforce entirely. Specifically, the Speak Out Act will: Prohibit the use of predispute NDAs between employers and current, former, and prospective employees, as well as independent contractors; Prohibit the use of predispute NDAs between providers of goods and services and consumers, and; Allow States to enact additional protections beyond the Speak Out Act’s protections—setting a floor not a ceiling for restricting NDA enforceability. Video of Senator Hirono discussing the importance of the Speak Out Act at a Judiciary Committee hearing can be viewed here. Senator Hirono is a strong advocate for survivors of sexual assault and harassment, and consistently works to advance … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-case-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-coral-reefs- | Hirono, Case Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Coral Reefs | 2022-12-07 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, during National Corals Week, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) and Representative Ed Case (D-HI) introduced the Coral Reef Sustainability Through Innovation Act of 2022, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to help protect coral reef ecosystems in Hawaii and across the nation from increasing threats such as climate change, pollution, and direct damage from humans. The legislation directs the federal agencies that are members of the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force to establish, individually or with one or more other agencies, a coral health prize competition in order to spur innovative solutions to preserve, sustain, and restore coral reef ecosystems at no additional cost to taxpayers. The text of the bill is also included in the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) released earlier today. “Coral reefs are vital to Hawaii’s environment, providing a rich habitat for marine life while helping to protect our coastlines and prevent flooding,” said Senator Hirono. “Decades of pollution and ocean warming caused by climate change have left corals in Hawaii and around the world at risk of extinction. As we work to protect and restore coral reef ecosystems, this legislation will help incentivize innovation and inspire creative solutions to protect coral reefs, at no cost to taxpayers. I’ll continue fighting to protect Hawaii’s coral reefs and all of our natural resources for generations to come.” “Healthy coral reef ecosystems provide the greatest biological diversity of all ecosystem types in the world,” said Congressman Case. “However, warmer-than-normal ocean temperatures are threatening their health and causing mass bleaching events, which cause corals to be more susceptible to disease and increase their chances of dying. Prize competitions that encourage public-private partnerships have an established record of jump-starting innovation to address our most complicated challenges. This measure will follow that model in determining the best solutions to the threats to our coral… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-legislation-to-help-domestic-violence-survivors-cut-ties-with-abusers-separate-from-shared-wireless-service-plans-signed-into-law | Schatz Legislation To Help Domestic Violence Survivors Cut Ties With Abusers, Separate From Shared Wireless Service Plans Signed Into Law | 2022-12-07 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, President Joe Biden signed the Safe Connections Act into law. The new law, authored by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), will help survivors of domestic violence and other crimes cut ties with their abusers and separate from shared wireless service plans, which can be exploited to monitor, stalk, or control victims. “Giving domestic violence abusers control over their victims’ cell phones is a terrifying reality for many survivors. Right now there is no easy way out for these victims – they’re trapped in by contracts and hefty fees. Our new law will help survivors get out of these shared plans and help victims stay connected with their families and support networks,” said Senator Schatz. “This new law will help survivors of domestic violence regain their independence and free their communications from abusers’ control. It’s another important step toward ensuring all victims of domestic violence have the support they need and deserve,” said Senator Fischer. Survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, sexual assault, and human trafficking often face challenges when establishing independence from an abuser. These include financial insecurity and limited access to the communications tools essential to maintaining connections with family, social safety networks, employers, and support services. As survivors seek help and stabilize their lives, the Safe Connections Act will help them stay safe and connected by: Allowing survivors to separate a mobile phone line from any shared plan involving an abuser without penalties or other requirements. This includes lines of any dependents in their care; Requiring the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to initiate a rulemaking proceeding to seek comment on how to help survivors who separate from a shared plan enroll in the Lifeline Program for up to six-months as they become financially stable; and Requiring the FCC to establish rules that would ensure any calls or texts to hotlines do not appear on call… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-reauthorize-and-improve-the-small-business-development-centers-program | Hirono, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Reauthorize and Improve the Small Business Development Centers Program | 2022-12-02 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship, introduced the Small Business Development Centers Improvement Act of 2022. The legislation, led by Chairman Ben Cardin (D-MD), aims to reauthorize and improve the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) Program. “Small Business Development Centers provide much needed counseling and support to business owners and entrepreneurs in Hawaii and throughout the nation,” said Senator Hirono. “In 2021 alone, Hawaii SBDC helped small business owners create over 500 jobs and start more than 70 local businesses, strengthening our economy and our communities. SBDCs play an important role in providing the resources businesses need to succeed. As a member of the Senate Small Business Committee, I will continue working to support local businesses and entrepreneurs in Hawaii and across the country.” The Small Business Development Centers Improvement Act of 2022 will make a number of updates to the SBDC program, including requiring that the SBA provide annual reports to Congress on all entrepreneurial activities and the SBDC program, and requiring SBA to assess and report on their data collecting practices. It also prohibits entities other than institutions of higher education from receiving new grants under the program, allows centers to collect fees related to private partnerships or cosponsorships, authorizes centers to market their services directly to small businesses, and modifies provisions related to program funding, operations, data collection, and reporting. The SBDC program began in 1976 with one center at California State Polytechnic University. Today, the SBDC network is comprised of 62 lead centers, with nearly 1,000 outreach centers located nationwide – including centers on Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii Island. A number of the lead centers are located at Minority Serving Institutions, including HBCUs, Hispanic-Serving Institutions, Asian American… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/president-signs-schatz-bill-to-expand-marijuana-research-into-law | President Signs Schatz Bill To Expand Marijuana Research Into Law | 2022-12-02 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, President Joe Biden signed the Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act into law. The new law, authored by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), will expand research into marijuana-derived medications. The goal of the law is to facilitate research on marijuana and its potential health benefits. The Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act will accomplish this by streamlining the application process for scientific marijuana studies and removing existing barriers for researchers that frequently slow the research process. “The medical community agrees that we need more research to learn about marijuana’s potential health benefits,” said Senator Schatz. “Our new law will remove excessive barriers that make it difficult for researchers to study the effectiveness and safety of marijuana, and hopefully, give patients more treatment options.” In addition to Schatz, Feinstein, and Grassley, the Senate bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). Cannabis containing more than 0.3 percent delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (commonly known as THC) is currently classified as a Schedule I drug. As a result, medical research is subject to stringent regulations that have impeded progress. Few marijuana-derived products have been FDA-approved, and there is little available information about their interactions with other medications, appropriate doses or delivery mechanisms. The goal of the Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act is to ensure that research on CBD and other potentially beneficial marijuana-derived substances is based on sound science while also reducing regulatory barriers associated with conducting research on marijuana. The new law also requires the Department of Health and Human Services and the National Institu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-protections-against-sexual-harassment-discrimination-in-education | Hirono, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Strengthen Protections Against Sexual Harassment, Discrimination in Education | 2022-12-01 | 2022 | 2022-12 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, introduced legislation with Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) to strengthen civil rights protections against harassment in schools. The Students’ Access to Freedom & Educational Rights Act (SAFER) Act would amend the burdensome standards for harassment lawsuits brought under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX) and create additional protections for students who experience sex-based harassment. The SAFER Act aims to repair years of damage to Title IX, including actions by the Trump Administration to strip away many protections for student sexual assault survivors and court rulings that have increased the burden on young people seeking justice even as standards for workplace sexual assault lawsuits remain less onerous. “Fifty years ago, Title IX was signed into law to guarantee every student’s right to a quality, equitable education, regardless of their sex,” said Senator Hirono. “But despite the progress Title IX has created, too many students—especially LGBTQ+ students, pregnant and parenting students, students of color, and students with disabilities—are still deprived the full protections of the law. The SAFER Act will strengthen enforcement of Title IX at schools and create important protections for survivors of harassment and assault on campus. This legislation will move us closer to fulfilling our promise of ensuring every student can get the quality education they deserve.” Decades ago, Congress established strong protections against discrimination, including Title IX, which was originally sponsored by Rep. Patsy Mink of Hawaii, as well as Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin; Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibits discrimination based on disability; and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, which prohibits age… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-announces-over-14-million-investment-in-public-health-infrastructure-in-hawaii | Hirono Announces Over $14 Million Investment in Public Health Infrastructure in Hawaii | 2022-11-30 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) announced that the Hawaii State Department of Health will receive $14.4 million in federal funding to improve critical public health infrastructure throughout the state as part of the newly developed Public Health Infrastructure Grant Program. The grant program—which is supported in part by the American Rescue Plan—provides awards directly to state, local, and territorial health departments to support investments in public health workforce, infrastructure, and data modernization. “When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, our families, communities, and health care workers in Hawaii felt the devastating consequences of a historically underfunded, understaffed, and under resourced public health system,” said Senator Hirono. “Democrats in Congress passed the American Rescue Plan to not only help our communities respond to and recover from COVID-19, but to strengthen our nation’s public health infrastructure and better protect the populations they serve. These critical investments will help keep our communities safer now and ensure Hawaii is better prepared for future health crises.” “The COVID-19 pandemic cast a spotlight on the importance of public health—a system that is chronically underfunded and resource constrained,” said Cathy Ross, Deputy Director of the Hawaii State Department of Health. “This new federal funding will help the Department build stronger, more resilient public health infrastructure in Hawaii through investments in workforce, technology, core systems, and health equity. These investments will support healthier communities across the state.” Over the last decade, state and local public health programs have lost 20 percent of their workforce capacity. These programs are essential for preventing chronic diseases and protecting the nation from current and emerging public health threats. The grant—administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)—is the first of its kind, and provides flexible investment so jurisdictions can addres… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-sen-hirono-to-va-native-hawaiians-should-never-be-deemed-an-afterthought | VIDEO: Sen. Hirono to VA: “Native Hawaiians Should Never Be Deemed An Afterthought” | 2022-11-30 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today at a Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC) hearing about Native veterans, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono pressed officials at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to always include Native Hawaiian veterans when discussing and developing policies to better support Native veterans. Additionally, Senator Hirono questioned the VA officials on steps they are taking to address the disproportionately high levels of homelessness that Native Hawaiian veterans experience. During the hearing, Mark Upton, VA Deputy to the Deputy Under Secretary for Health, delivered testimony discussing the steps the VA is taking to support Native veterans—however he neglected to mention Native Hawaiians. Following his testimony, Senator Hirono stated, “As the Senator from Hawaii, I am very disappointed that your testimony neglected to mention Native Hawaiian veterans. As you know, like other Native communities, Native Hawaiians serve in our military at disproportionately high rates.” “I know the VA understands the importance of ensuring Native Hawaiian veterans are treated with the same concern as American Indian and Alaska Native veterans—especially following the Secretary’s recent trip to our state in October. But it is critical—given the historical lack of parity Native Hawaiians have received from the VA—that Native Hawaiian veterans are always included in our language and our policies.” “So, my main point is that Native Hawaiians should never be deemed an afterthought, and that when we talk about focusing on programs that support Native communities or Native veterans…I am asking that we need to always include Native Hawaiians when we start talking about all the things we are doing.” Despite serving in the military at a rate nearly 2.5 times higher than the national average, Native Hawaiian veterans continue to face barriers to accessing physical and mental health care, as well as disproportionately high rates of homelessness in Hawaii, making up the second largest share of homeless veterans experiencin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-hawaii-to-receive-more-than-5-million-to-provide-high-speed-internet-access-to-more-people-across-the-state | Schatz: Hawai‘i To Receive More Than $5 Million To Provide High-Speed Internet Access To More People Across The State | 2022-11-30 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today announced that Hawai‘i will receive $5.6 million in new federal funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce to expand high-speed internet access in unserved and underserved communities. “Everyone in Hawai‘i should have access to high-speed internet,” said Senator Schatz, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “This funding will allow us to expand broadband infrastructure across the state, and help make sure families and small businesses can get affordable, dependable broadband service.” The funding comes from the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, which expands high-speed internet though planning, infrastructure deployment, and adoption programs. The first phase of the BEAD Program will support a dedicated broadband office, employee training, technical assistance, and outreach for the program to encourage community engagement, determine eligibility, and ensure successful implementation. The BEAD Program was created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, legislation signed into law by President Biden last November that will bring at least $2.8 billion to Hawai‘i for infrastructure improvements. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-leads-group-of-7-senators-urging-president-biden-to-commute-native-american-activist-leonard-peltiers-sentence | Schatz Leads Group Of 7 Senators Urging President Biden To Commute Native American Activist Leonard Peltier’s Sentence | 2022-11-30 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, renewed efforts to urge President Joe Biden to commute the sentence of Leonard Peltier, a Native American activist convicted of murder in 1977 following a controversial investigation and trial, which many civil rights leaders and legal experts have called unjust, including the U.S. Attorney who prosecuted the case. The new letter follows Schatz’s call for clemency in January. In addition to Schatz, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawai‘i) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.). In their letter to the president, the senators cite Peltier’s advanced age, illness, and the growing concerns of misconduct and injustice around his arrest and prosecution. “Mr. Peltier has spent more than half of his life behind bars. Now, at seventy-seven years old, he suffers from numerous health conditions, including a potentially fatal abdominal aortic aneurysm,” the senators wrote. “We urge you to grant clemency to Mr. Peltier by commuting the remainder of his sentence. Mr. Peltier’s continued imprisonment defies the promises of justice, and the power to exercise mercy in this case lies solely within your discretion.” The full text of the letter can be found below and is available here. Dear President Biden: We write to request that you grant clemency to Native American rights activist Leonard Peltier by commuting the remainder of his sentence. Mr. Peltier has spent more than half of his life behind bars. Now, at seventy-seven years old, he suffers from numerous health conditions, including a potentially fatal abdominal aortic aneurysm. Over the past several decades, clemency for Mr. Peltier has received sweeping support from many faith and human rights leaders, including Pope Francis, Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, Saint Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, the Dalai Lama, and Coretta Scott King. Each have articulated the … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-colleagues-urge-president-biden-to-commute-native-american-activist-leonard-peltiers-sentence | Hirono, Colleagues Urge President Biden to Commute Native American Activist Leonard Peltier’s Sentence | 2022-11-29 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) joined six of her Senate colleagues in urging President Joe Biden to commute the sentence of Leonard Peltier, a Native American activist convicted of murder in 1977 following a controversial investigation and trial, which many civil rights leaders and legal experts have called unjust, including the U.S. Attorney who prosecuted the case. The letter, led by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI), is also signed by Senators Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Tina Smith (D-MN). In their letter to the president, the senators cite Peltier’s advanced age, illness, and the growing concerns of misconduct and injustice around his arrest and prosecution. “Mr. Peltier has spent more than half of his life behind bars. Now, at seventy-seven years old, he suffers from numerous health conditions, including a potentially fatal abdominal aortic aneurysm,” the senators wrote. “We urge you to grant clemency to Mr. Peltier by commuting the remainder of his sentence. Mr. Peltier’s continued imprisonment defies the promises of justice, and the power to exercise mercy in this case lies solely within your discretion.” The letter follows an earlier letter Senator Hirono sent to President Biden in May similarly urging him to commute Peltier’s sentence. The full text of the letter is available here and below. Dear President Biden: We write to request that you grant clemency to Native American rights activist Leonard Peltier by commuting the remainder of his sentence. Mr. Peltier has spent more than half of his life behind bars. Now, at seventy-seven years old, he suffers from numerous health conditions, including a potentially fatal abdominal aortic aneurysm. Over the past several decades, clemency for Mr. Peltier has received sweeping support from many faith and human rights leaders, including Pope Francis, Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, Saint Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, the Dalai Lama, and Coretta Scott King. Each have articul… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-statement-on-senate-passage-of-respect-for-marriage-act- | Hirono Statement on Senate Passage of Respect for Marriage Act | 2022-11-29 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) voted to pass the Respect for Marriage Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation that she cosponsored to protect marriage equality in federal law, which passed the Senate by a vote of 61-36. The amended House bill must now be voted on again by the U.S. House before being sent to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “When the right-wing Supreme Court eliminated the constitutional right to reproductive freedom, it became clear that this was not the end of possible assaults on our fundamental rights and freedoms, including the right to marry who you love,” said Senator Hirono. “With this MAGA Court’s sights on our constitutional rights, I’m glad the Senate came together in a bipartisan manner to pass the Respect for Marriage Act. This critical legislation will give couples in same-sex and interracial marriages peace of mind that their unions will be protected at the federal level.” Specifically, the Respect for Marriage Act would: Require the federal government to recognize a marriage between two individuals if the marriage was valid in the state where it was performed; and Guarantee that valid marriages between two individuals are given full faith and credit, regardless of the couple’s sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin, but the bill would not require a State to issue a marriage license contrary to state law. The House companion bill was introduced by House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus Chairman David Cicilline (D-RI). A previous version of the bill passed the House on July 19 by a vote of 267 to 157, with 47 Republicans voting in favor. Senator Hirono has been a consistent champion for LGBTQ+ rights. Earlier this year, she introduced a resolution recognizing June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month and took to the Senate floor to block Senate Republicans’ attempt to pass anti-transgender legislation to ban trans women and girls from participating in sports consistent with their gender. In Marc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-provisions-to-improve-volcanic-warning-system-protect-coral-reefs-included-in-defense-authorization-bill | Schatz Provisions To Improve Volcanic Warning System, Protect Coral Reefs Included In Defense Authorization Bill | 2022-11-27 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today secured the inclusion of several provisions to the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), including measures to protect coral reefs, improve the nation’s volcanic warning system, and stop the cruel practice of killing sharks for their fins. The final NDAA bill includes the bipartisan Restoring Resilient Reefs Act which was authored by Schatz and U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). The landmark bill increases authorizations for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Coral Reef Program from $16 million to $45 million annually. It also authorizes a state block grant program for $12 million annually to support state efforts to manage and restore coral reefs, and $4.5 million annually for Pacific and Atlantic coral reef cooperative institutes. The provision’s inclusion in NDAA is a major step forward for coral reef stewardship. “Our coral reefs have been pushed to the brink of extinction, and we need to act now to save them,” said Senator Schatz. “Our legislation will put federal funding in the hands of states and territories to manage and restore the coral reefs that our communities, oceans, and coasts depend on.” Schatz also authored the Volcanic Ash and Fumes Act and secured its inclusion into NDAA. The bipartisan bill updates the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Volcanic Early Warning System by requiring NOAA to share volcanic gas and ash dispersal models to be incorporated into the warning system, keeping responders, residents, and aviation safe during volcanic eruptions and their aftermath. Schatz continued, “Hawai‘i has six active volcanoes, including Mauna Loa and Kīlauea. As we all know in Hawai‘i, volcanic eruptions can be a real danger, so improving our warning systems can make a difference in keeping people safe. Our bipartisan bill is a common-sense step to make sure the agencies tracking volcanoes have all available data to respond to threats on land, in the sea, and in the sky, and better protect families in ou… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/photos-and-video-ahead-of-small-business-saturday-hirono-visits-kaimuki-small-businesses | PHOTOS & VIDEO: Ahead of Small Business Saturday, Hirono Visits Kaimuki Small Businesses | 2022-11-25 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU, HI – Ahead of Small Business Saturday, Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, visited small businesses in Kaimuki to meet with business owners and discuss how federal programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program, enabled them to remain in business through the COVID-19 pandemic. Senator Hirono was joined on the tour by Jordan Lee and Summer Shiigi, Kaimuki small business owners and cofounders of “Keep It Kaimuki,” a community-based business network of small businesses founded in 2017 to showcase the diversity of the Kaimuki neighborhood and its businesses. “From bookshops, to cafés, to pet stores, and so much more, small businesses like those I visited today are critical to Hawaii’s economy and the communities they serve,” said Senator Hirono. “I enjoyed learning more about these businesses and the wide array of goods and services they offer, and hearing from business owners about how federal programs helped them weather the pandemic. As we enter the holiday season, I encourage everyone to shop local and support small businesses in their own neighborhoods.” During the visit, Senator Hirono toured several local businesses, including: Coffee Talk, a café offering a variety of specialty coffee and tea beverages that received PPP funding; da Shop, an independent community bookstore that features many local authors in addition to national bestsellers, cookbooks, and children’s books, and also received PPP funding; Bead It, a bead store founded in 1992 that received PPP funding; Keep It Simple, a zero-waste store with additional locations in Waikiki and Kapolei that allows customers to bring reusable containers to fill up with things like laundry detergent, body wash, and hand soap; and Nana Ai Katsu, a katsu restaurant that opened in Kaimuki in December 2021 as take-out only and started in-person dining earlier this month. Video of the Senator speaking with business owners is available to download here. Saturday, November 26, 2022… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-colleagues-call-for-postal-service-to-ramp-up-efforts-to-electrify-the-mail-delivery-fleet | Hirono, Colleagues Call for Postal Service to Ramp Up Efforts to Electrify the Mail Delivery Fleet | 2022-11-23 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) joined her colleagues in a letter, led by Senators Edward Markey (D-MA) and Tom Carper (D-DE), to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and United States Postal Service (USPS) Board of Governors Chair Roman Martinez calling for USPS to dramatically increase mail delivery fleet electrification effort, an effort that would improve service on some 177,000 routes across the country. USPS estimates that the adoption of a fully electric fleet of Next Generation Delivery Vehicles (NGDV) would roughly triple reductions in greenhouse gas emissions compared to a fleet that is only 10 percent electric. “We urge USPS to use the $3 billion in new funding from the Inflation Reduction Act to further increase its vehicle electrification efforts and not merely spend the money on the 40-percent BEV commitment it had already made and had the resources to achieve,” wrote the lawmakers. “With Inflation Reduction Act funding, USPS should aim higher and strive for at least a 95-percent electric mail delivery fleet that will reduce dangerous greenhouse-gas emissions, help usher in an era of ubiquitous clean car technology, and protect and create high quality union jobs in the domestic EV supply chain by insisting that the workforce producing the fleet affords workers the opportunity to collectively bargain.” USPS received an additional $3 billion in funds from the Inflation Reduction Act to invest in battery electric vehicles (BEV) and supporting infrastructure. The lawmakers urge USPS to make a commitment to increase its fleet electrification commitment to 95 percent from 40 percent, leveraging the additional funding provided through the Inflation Reduction Act to not simply meet its previous commitment, but rather to make further progress towards a more ambitious benchmark. In the letter, the lawmakers also remind USPS that switching to BEVs would reduce air pollution in communities across the country. In addition to Senators Hirono, Markey, and Carper, the letter was also signed by S… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/photos-and-video-hirono-meets-with-filipino-curriculum-project-student-leaders | PHOTOS & VIDEO: Hirono Meets with Filipino Curriculum Project Student Leaders | 2022-11-23 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU, HI – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) met with student leaders of the Filipino Curriculum Project to discuss the project’s achievements and plans for the future. The Filipino Curriculum Project is working to create an elective course within the Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE) that tells the history and contributions of Filipinos in Hawaii. “Hawaii’s rich diversity is central to our state’s history and culture, and it’s important that our keiki learn about all of the communities that comprise our unique state,” said Senator Hirono. “The Filipino community has made significant contributions in areas such as health care, education, the arts, business, military service, and more in Hawaii and across the country. Developing a curriculum that celebrates these contributions, as well as the rich history and culture of the Filipino community is long overdue. The students leading the Filipino Curriculum Project are a testament to the drive and dedication of the next generation, and I’m very encouraged by what they’re doing. I’ve asked for their feedback on my bill to expand AAPI history in our schools, and I look forward to continuing our dialogue.” The Filipino Curriculum Project is a collaboration between Hawaii students from public and private schools. The curriculum the group is developing will have four components: (1) Ethnic Identity; (2) Cultural Connection; (3) Historical Context; and (4) Filipinos in Hawaii. Thus far, the group has participated in curriculum workshops, met with leadership from the HIDOE, and engaged with State legislators to pass House Resolution 50 to implement a Filipino history, culture, and identity social studies course for high school students. Senator Hirono has long advocated on behalf of Asian Pacific Islander American communities in Hawaii, the U.S., and Pacific Island nations and territories. In May, she introduced a bill to promote the teaching of Asian Pacific American history for high school students and teachers who enroll in the U.S. Department of Educ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-lawmakers-urge-fda-to-consider-steps-to-protect-and-expand-access-to-medication-abortion | Hirono, Lawmakers Urge FDA to Consider Steps to Protect and Expand Access to Medication Abortion | 2022-11-21 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) joined eight Senate Democrats in a letter, led by Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), to U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf encouraging the agency to defend Americans’ reproductive rights, and to consider steps to protect and expand access to medication abortion. “As states implement new restrictions, it is more important than ever that you take immediate steps to expand access to medication abortion,” wrote the lawmakers. “We encourage and support your efforts to protect access to abortion and reproductive rights across the nation.” In the letter, the lawmakers encourage FDA to finalize the updated Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) for medication abortion drug Mifepristone, consider lifting remaining medically unnecessary REMS restrictions, and work with drug sponsors to add a miscarriage management indication for Mifepristone taken with misoprostol. For over two decades, women have been safely and effectively using medication abortion—Mifepristone and Misoprostol—to terminate a pregnancy. The two medications, when taken together, significantly improve the management of early pregnancy loss and result in fewer complications. Yet, right-wing state legislatures across the country have passed laws banning the use of medication abortion, further stripping away women’s access to abortion care and undermining the FDA’s authority to protect the nation’s public health. Following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn nearly 50 years of precedent and repeal Roe v. Wade in July 2022, President Biden released an Executive Order to protect access to reproductive health care services. On August 26, 2022, HHS responded by publishing a report that included a recommendation to expand access to medication abortion through FDA finalization of updated REMS for Mifepristone “that have been found to be safe and effective.” In addition to Senators Hirono and Warren, the letter was also signed by Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/fighting-for-native-hawaiian-survivors-of-gender-based-violence | Fighting for Native Hawaiian Survivors of Gender-Based Violence | 2022-11-18 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Aloha, This week, the Senate unanimously passed legislation I introduced to allow Native Hawaiian survivors of gender-based violence to access critical programs and resources provided by Congress through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). My legislation makes an important change to VAWA to ensure Native Hawaiian organizations can actually serve the Native Hawaiian community. For decades, Congress has provided funding to organizations that support survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, sex trafficking, dating violence, and stalking through VAWA. Tragically, Native women across the country— including Native Hawaiian women—experience disproportionately high levels of sexual violence. This crisis is heartbreaking and demands action. To address the disproportionate violence against Native women, VAWA includes funding specifically for Native-serving non-profits, such as Native Hawaiian organizations. However, it excluded Native Hawaiian women from accessing these critical resources—which was unacceptable. Senator Hirono speaks about her legislation on the Senate floor. That’s why I’ve been fighting to update VAWA to include Native Hawaiians. My bill will enable Native Hawaiian organizations to actually serve the Native Hawaiian community and do even more in the fight to end sexual violence. I’m proud that the Senate unanimously passed this legislation and I'll keep fighting to get this bill passed in the House and signed into law. I have been a strong advocate and longstanding supporter of programs and resources that uplift survivors of sexual violence. In August, I pressed FBI Director Christopher Wray to strengthen its efforts to protect the Native Hawaiian community from sexual exploitation and emphasized the need for the FBI to include the Native Hawaiian community in its work to address the missing and murdered Indigenous people crisis and violence against Native communities. I will always fight to ensure the Native Hawaiian community has the resources they need in order to successfully impleme… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-led-resolution-commemorating-50th-anniversary-of-hanalei-and-pearl-harbor-national-wildlife-refuges-unanimously-passes-in-senate | Hirono-Led Resolution Commemorating 50th Anniversary of Hanalei and Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuges Unanimously Passes in Senate | 2022-11-18 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate passed a resolution introduced by Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, recognizing the 50th anniversaries of the establishment of Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai and Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuge on Oahu. The resolution, which passed via unanimous consent, was also cosponsored by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) and celebrates the two refuges while acknowledging the wonders of Hawaii’s eight other national wildlife refuges (NWR). The resolution also encourages people in Hawaii and across the country to learn about, support, and appreciate these refuges. “Hawaii’s national wildlife refuges play a crucial role in protecting many endangered species, such as the nene goose and the akoko plant,” said Senator Hirono. “The Hanalei and Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuges, along with Hawaii’s eight other NWRs, provide safe, protected spaces for various species, including fish, wildlife, and plants to flourish, while also allowing visitors to learn about different native species and the cultural history of each area. I’m glad the Senate unanimously passed my resolution recognizing the 50th anniversary of these important refuges, and I’ll continue working to support conservation efforts in Hawaii and across the country as we work to protect our environment for generations to come.” Established more than 100 years ago, the National Wildlife Refuge System aims to protect and conserve local wildlife and native species. Across the U.S., there are more than 560 National Wildlife Refuges, including ten in Hawaii, managed and administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuge was established on October 17, 1972 to mitigate the environmental impacts of the construction of the Honolulu International Airport Reef Runway. It protects some of the last remaining wetlands on Oahu and is home to threatened and endangered wildlife and plants, such as the Hawaiian stilt and the akoko. The H… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-senate-unanimously-passes-hirono-legislation-to-support-native-hawaiian-survivors-of-gender-based-violence- | VIDEO: Senate Unanimously Passes Hirono Legislation to Support Native Hawaiian Survivors of Gender-Based Violence | 2022-11-18 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate unanimously passed legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) to allow Native Hawaiian survivors of gender-based violence to access critical programs and resources provided by Congress through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). The reauthorization of VAWA—which was signed into law in March, 2022—provides funding to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, sex-trafficking, dating violence and stalking. Senator Hirono’s legislation amends the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) to ensure Native Hawaiian organizations can actually serve the Native Hawaiian community. Native women across the country—including American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women—experience disproportionately high levels of sexual violence. Therefore, VAWA includes Services, Training, Officers Prosecutors (STOP) grants to provide funding for eligible Native-serving non-profits, including Native Hawaiian organizations, to help combat sexual violence and support survivors. However, because of how the law was written, while Native Hawaiian organizations are able to apply for STOP grant funding, they cannot use the funds to actually serve the Native Hawaiian community. As a result, Native Hawaiian women have been unable to access critical resources included in VAWA. “For decades, Congress has provided funding to organizations that support survivors of gender-based violence through the Violence Against Women Act. This funding is critical to support all women, including Native women who experience disproportionately high levels of sexual violence. However, Native Hawaiian women have been excluded from accessing these much-needed resources,” said Senator Hirono. “Today, I’m proud that the Senate unanimously passed my legislation to amend VAWA to ensure that Native Hawaiian organizations can actually serve the Native Hawaiian community. This bill will allow Native Hawaiian survivors to get the support they deserve, and will enable Native Hawaiian organizations to do even more in … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-legislation-to-help-domestic-violence-survivors-cut-ties-with-abusers-separate-from-shared-wireless-service-plans-set-to-become-law | Schatz Legislation To Help Domestic Violence Survivors Cut Ties With Abusers, Separate From Shared Wireless Service Plans Set To Become Law | 2022-11-18 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Safe Connections Act. The bill, authored by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), will help survivors of domestic violence and other crimes cut ties with their abusers and separate from shared wireless service plans, which can be exploited to monitor, stalk, or control victims. “Giving domestic violence abusers control over their victims’ cell phones is a terrifying reality for many survivors. Right now there is no easy way out for these victims – they’re trapped in by contracts and hefty fees. Our bill, which is now set to become law, will help survivors get out of these shared plans and help victims stay connected with their families and support networks,” said Senator Schatz. “This important legislation will help survivors of domestic violence regain their independence and free their communications from abusers’ control. I’m glad to see the Senate and House now have both passed our bipartisan bill with unanimous support, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law,” said Senator Fischer. Survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, sexual assault, and human trafficking often face challenges when establishing independence from an abuser. These include financial insecurity and limited access to the communications tools essential to maintaining connections with family, social safety networks, employers, and support services. As survivors seek help and stabilize their lives, the Safe Connections Act will help them stay safe and connected by: Allowing survivors to separate a mobile phone line from any shared plan involving an abuser without penalties or other requirements. This includes lines of any dependents in their care; Requiring the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to initiate a rulemaking proceeding to seek comment on how to help survivors who separate from a shared plan enroll in the Lifeline Program for up to six-months as they become financially stable; and Requiring the FCC to establish ru… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-led-legislation-to-protect-survivors-of-sexual-assault-and-harassment-passes-house | Hirono-Led Legislation to Protect Survivors of Sexual Assault and Harassment Passes House | 2022-11-16 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass the Speak Out Act, legislation co-led in the Senate by Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), by a vote of 315-109. The bipartisan, bicameral bill would limit the enforceability of non-disclosure agreements and non-disparagement agreements (NDAs) where a sexual harassment or sexual assault dispute arises and survivors wish to break their silence, and was also co-led by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC). The bill passed the Senate unanimously in September and now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. The House companion bill was introduced by Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL) and Ken Buck (R-CO). “For too long, NDAs have been weaponized to silence survivors of sexual abuse and misconduct,” said Senator Hirono. “The Speak Out Act takes a crucial step towards supporting survivors by limiting the enforceability of these NDAs and enabling states to enact other long overdue protections. I am grateful that the House has passed this important legislation and I look forward to seeing President Biden sign it into law as we continue working to help ensure all survivors get the protection and support they deserve.” Prior to the Speak Out Act, individuals and organizations could use NDAs to prevent survivors of sexual harassment or assault from speaking publicly about these incidents. The threat of legal retaliation created and enabled a culture of silence that allowed predators to continue their illegal conduct, while their victims were forced out of their careers and the workforce entirely. Specifically, the Speak Out Act will: Prohibit the use of predispute NDAs between employers and current, former, and prospective employees, as well as independent contractors; Prohibit the use of predispute NDAs between providers of goods and services and consumers, and; Allow States to enact additional protections beyond the Speak Out Act’s protections—setting a floor not a ceiling for restr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-statement-on-respect-for-marriage-act-cloture-vote | Hirono Statement on Respect for Marriage Act Cloture Vote | 2022-11-16 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) voted to invoke cloture on the Respect for Marriage Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation that she cosponsored to protect marriage equality in federal law. The legislation, which passed in the House in July, passed the major procedural cloture vote 62-37, all but ensuring it’s final passage in the Senate. “Nearly a decade ago, the Supreme Court affirmed marriage equality as the law of the land. But as the far-right majority on the Court works to eliminate fundamental rights, it is clear we must act to protect same-sex and interracial marriages. The Respect for Marriage Act will give same-sex and interracial couples the certainty that their marriage is, and always will be, legal—and I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation,” said Senator Hirono. “I look forward to voting on final Senate passage of this legislation, and I’ll continue fighting to ensure that every person in our country is treated with dignity and respect—regardless of their race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religion.” Specifically, the Respect for Marriage Act would: Require the federal government to recognize a marriage between two individuals if the marriage was valid in the state where it was performed; and Guarantee that valid marriages between two individuals are given full faith and credit, regardless of the couple’s sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin, but the bill would not require a State to issue a marriage license contrary to state law. The House companion bill was introduced by House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus Chairman David Cicilline (D-RI) and passed the House on July 19 by a vote of 267 to 157, with 47 Republicans voting in favor. Senator Hirono has been a consistent champion for LGBTQ+ rights. Earlier this year, she introduced a resolution recognizing June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month and took to the Senate floor to block Senate Republicans’ attempt to pass anti-transgender legislation to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-hirono-questions-va-leaders-about-red-hill-exposure-pact-act-implementation-during-va-committee-hearing | VIDEO: Hirono Questions VA Leaders About Red Hill Exposure, PACT Act Implementation During VA Committee Hearing | 2022-11-16 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, questioned a panel of leaders from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) about VA’s plans to support servicemembers impacted by fuel leaks at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. During a full committee hearing, Senator Hirono asked Dr. Shereef Elnahal, VA Under Secretary for Health, and Dr. Patricia Hastings, VA’s Chief Consultant for Health Outcomes Military Exposures, about how the VA is preparing to care for servicemembers impacted by the Red Hill fuel leaks once they transition out of active duty “As we talk about loss of data, et cetera, and the need to coordinate between DoD and VA, these are thousands and thousands of people who were exposed to jet fuel leaks at Red Hill, and it occurs to us that there should be a way for some kind of tracking and tracing of the health issues attended to this exposure while they’re currently in active service, as well as, presumably, they’re going to become veterans,” said Senator Hirono. “So is this something that you’re already doing?” In response, Dr. Hastings confirmed that VA is working with the Department of Defense (DOD) to track those impacted by Red Hill. “Red Hill is one of the cohorts we are concerned with,” said Dr. Hastings. “There is a registry of those people who were exposed that DOD has. This is a cohort that we will follow into the future and this will be decades of following up. But that is what my office does routinely, we follow the cohorts, we look at health outcomes, we look at how to care for those veterans and their families.” Senator Hirono also asked about a component of the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, legislation signed into law earlier this year to expand VA coverage to 3.5 million toxic-exposed veterans, directing the VA to research jet fuel exposure. “A provision in the PACT Act directs the Department to study the impacts of jet fuel exposure – like… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-announces-154-million-grant-to-protect-and-recover-at-risk-species-in-maui-county | Hirono Announces $1.54 Million Grant to Protect and Recover At-Risk Species in Maui County | 2022-11-15 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee, announced that the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) will receive $1.54 million in federal funding to implement the first stage of the Maui Landscape Conservation Plan to protect and recover at-risk species in Maui County. The project will prevent near-term imminent extinction of target plant species, expand horticultural expertise for propagation and reintroduction, and establish a state-wide survey and monitoring database for the more than 200 at-risk plants, invertebrates, water birds and sea birds on the islands of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai. The grant is made possible by the Biden-Harris Administration’s America the Beautiful Challenge (ATBC), which was funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law enacted last year, as well as other federal conservation programs and private sources. “The Maui Landscape Conservation Plan—and similar initiatives across the state—play a key role in protecting and preserving native at-risk plant and animal species that comprise Hawaii’s unique environment,” said Senator Hirono. “The funding from this grant will enable DLNR to continue its efforts to ensure that these species, along with other precious natural resources, are able to continue to play important roles in our native ecosystems for years to come.” Across the country, the ATBC is providing nearly $91 million in funding through 55 new grants that will support conservation projects in 42 states, three U.S. territories, and 14 Tribal Nations, generating a total conservation impact of about $141.7 million. ATBC grants support projects that conserve, restore, and connect habitats for wildlife while improving community resilience and access to nature. Overall, the projects are expected to: Improve or remove more than 250 miles of fence to benefit wildlife; Manage more than 130,000 acres of fire-dependent habitat; Remove or improve more than 57 barriers to fish and aquatic organism … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-gillibrand-demand-answers-on-defense-department-support-for-families-impacted-by-red-hill-fuel-leaks | Hirono, Gillibrand Demand Answers on Defense Department Support for Families Impacted by Red Hill Fuel Leaks | 2022-11-15 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Chair of the Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, today sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin demanding information about the Department of Defense’s (DOD) support of families and individuals impacted by the November 2021 release of fuel from the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility on Oahu. In the letter, Hirono reiterates many of the concerns expressed by organizations representing the more than 93,000 individuals impacted by the fuel leak—including the risk of future medical conditions caused by past fuel exposure—and requests information about the Department’s efforts to ensure those impacted have the information, health care, and support they need to protect themselves and their families. “While the Navy and the Department of Defense (DoD) have taken important steps toward addressing the fuel release by remediating the water supplies, deciding to shut down and budget for the facility’s closure, and standing up a Joint Task Force (JTF) to steward the facility’s defueling, the community remains confused and frustrated,” write the lawmakers. “Many servicemembers, families, and community members have valid concerns and questions about how they will be compensated for the various impacts of the fuel release, how they can access adequate medical support, and how the military will address long term impacts from the fuel exposure, among many other issues. To date, these questions have no clear answers.” In the letter, the lawmakers ask for answers to a list of specific questions, including: What is the DoD doing to assure affected individuals of the validity and accuracy of the water samples used to clear their homes for return? How is information for individual homes and facilities being communicated to those living in or utilizing those water sources? What information is being provided to the affected individuals concerning the chemical breakdown of contaminants th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-announces-13-million-awarded-to-hawaii-projects-aimed-at-strengthening-local-food-and-agricultural-systems | Hirono Announces $1.3 Million Awarded to Hawaii Projects Aimed at Strengthening Local Food & Agricultural Systems | 2022-11-14 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service awarded nearly $1.3 million total to four projects in Hawaii to expand and strengthen local food systems, and increase the availability of locally grown agricultural products. The four recipient organizations are Common Ground Collective; Hawaii Good Food Alliance; Kokua Kalihi Valley Comprehensive Family Services; and the Olohana Foundation. “Promoting sustainability in our food and agricultural systems is important for our communities, our environment, and our economy,” said Senator Hirono. “This funding and these projects are crucial as Hawaii works to reduce our reliance on imported goods. I’ll continue working to help ensure our local farmers have the resources and support to widely distribute their goods, and communities can access healthy, fresh, locally grown produce.” The funding will be used to support four projects throughout the state. On Maui, Common Ground Collective (CGC) utilizes field work and research to create food security and economic opportunity for Maui communities. With this award, CGC will work to decrease Maui’s reliance on imported goods by enhancing the local food system, support local agricultural producers by providing distribution assistance to new local growers, and expand the capacity of local food businesses to contribute to the island’s regional food system and those in need. Based on Oahu, Hawaii Good Food Alliance is a diverse group of community leaders who share in the production, aggregation, and distribution of food to rebuild thriving community food systems. The Hawaii Food Hub Hui, in partnership with the Hawaii Good Food Alliance, aims to build individual and collective capacity in Hawaii’s food hubs to ensure maximum sales for small and mid-size local farmers and producers, while enabling equitable access to fresh, healthy local food for communities. The goal of this project is to increase local food sales via Hawaii’s food … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-named-congressional-champion-for-children | Hirono Named Congressional “Champion for Children” | 2022-11-14 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) has been named a 2022 Champion for Children by the bipartisan advocacy organization First Focus Campaign for Children. The distinction recognizes Senator Hirono’s leadership on issues including combatting childhood food insecurity, reforming the criminal justice system, and supporting immigrant children and families. “Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, and I’m working to help ensure they have the support they need to do so,” said Senator Hirono. “Senate Democrats have worked to provide advance monthly payments to families through the expanded Child Tax Credit, invest in our public schools, expand support for immigrant children and families, ensure every child has food to eat, and more. I’m honored to be named a Champion for Children, and I’ll keep fighting to support the health, safety, and education of our keiki in Hawaii and beyond.” First Focus Campaign for Children’s 2022 Legislative Scorecard ranks members of Congress according to votes and bill sponsorships taken during the 117th Congress that prioritize the well-being of children in the U.S. and around the world. The new report examines key pieces of legislation designed to reduce child poverty, protect unhoused children, aid those who lost caregivers to COVID-19, guard against environmental threats, ensure that children have enough to eat, and to address other issues critical to advancing the needs of all children everywhere. Just 20 members of the U.S. Senate, all Democrats, were named Champions for Children in the 117th Congress. Senator Hirono has been a consistent champion for children in Hawaii and across the country. Last year, Senator Hirono helped pass the American Rescue Plan, which included $430 million in federal funding for Hawaii’s public schools. In May, she reintroduced the LIFT the BAR Act to reinstate access to federal benefits including the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for immigrants, wh… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/honoring-our-veterans | Honoring Our Veterans | 2022-11-14 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | Aloha, Last week, we celebrated Veterans Day, an opportunity to recognize the service, bravery, and commitment of our veterans, who sacrifice so much in defense of our nation. I was honored to join veterans from across Hawaii at the Punchbowl Veterans Memorial to thank them for their service. Senator Hirono with JROTC Cadets at the Punchbowl Veterans Day ceremony. As important as it is to thank our veterans, the most important thing we can do to honor their sacrifice is ensure they get the benefits they deserve. Over the past two years, Congress has made critical progress for veterans in Hawaii and across our country. Honoring Our PACT ACT We passed the Honoring Our PACT Act, which has expanded VA care for more than 3.5 million post-9/11 veterans who have been exposed to toxins during their service, helping more of our veterans get the health care they deserve. I’m glad to say that the PACT Act is already helping veterans in Hawaii. A Honolulu resident who submitted a VA claim prior to the law’s passage, was denied care. After the PACT Act was signed into law, his condition became covered by the VA, and my office was able to help get his claim granted. For more information about accessing PACT Act benefits, click here. Expanding Mental Health Care As we work to support the physical health of our veterans, we also have a duty to provide them with the mental health support they need. That’s why Congress also passed the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, which has helped to increase mental health care resources for veterans and make it easier for them to access these resources. Akaka VA Clinic Here in Hawaii, we are advancing construction of the Daniel K. Akaka Outpatient VA clinic in Kapolei, a project I’ve been proud to champion in the Senate. Once completed, this clinic will provide important care for veterans not only on Oahu, but across Hawaii and the entire Pacific region. Senator Hirono tours the construction site of the Daniel K. Akaka VA Clinic in Kapolei. We… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-urges-usda-secretary-to-create-new-climate-hub-in-hawaii-to-address-unique-climate-challenges | Hirono Urges USDA Secretary to Create New Climate Hub in Hawaii to Address Unique Climate Challenges | 2022-11-10 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack urging the USDA to establish a Climate Hub in Hawaii to better serve the state and the Pacific basin. Climate Hubs help agricultural producers with climate-informed decision making. Currently, there are 10 Climate Hubs across the country—Hawaii belongs to the Southwest Climate Hub located in New Mexico. However, Hawaii’s geography and climate-related challenges are unique from the continental U.S., meaning that the data and information generated by the Southwest Climate Hub are often not as applicable for producers and land managers in the state. “Understanding the unique challenges our producers and natural resource managers face as well as providing trusted information and tools requires frequent presence, engagement, and established relationships within local communities,” wrote Senator Hirono in the letter. “Establishing a hub in Hawaii would further the Climate Hubs’ goal of ensuring equity and environmental justice by focusing on the unique needs of our diverse, historically disadvantaged farmers and ranchers that have often been overlooked.” In her letter, Senator Hirono also invited Secretary Vilsack to visit Hawaii in order to witness, firsthand, the unique challenges that local producers and natural resource managers face, as well as learn more about the value a Climate Hub in Hawaii would provide to local communities. The USDA Climate Hubs are the product of collaboration across various USDA agencies. They are led and hosted by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and Forest Service (FS), with contributions from many agencies including the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Farm Service Agency (FSA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), and the Risk Management Agency (RMA). Their mission is to develop and deliver science-based, region-specific information and technologies, with… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/photos-and-video-hirono-visits-uh-west-oahu-to-discuss-programs-supporting-underrepresented-students | PHOTOS & VIDEO: Hirono Visits UH West Oahu to Discuss Programs Supporting Underrepresented Students | 2022-11-10 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU, HI –Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) visited the University of Hawaii West Oahu (UHWO) to meet with university staff and learn about programs offered at the University to support underrepresented students, including Native Hawaiians. During her visit, Senator Hirono learned about their Center for Labor Education and Research (CLEAR), Early College Program, and programs for Native Hawaiian students. UHWO received approximately $15.5 million in CARES Act funds and other disaster relief bills. “I enjoyed the chance to meet with students on the beautiful UH West Oahu campus to hear about what they’re learning and how federal grants are helping many of them attend college,” said Senator Hirono. “Many of these students are the first in their families to attend college, and with support from federal funding, UHWO is helping them to expand their horizons and reach their full potential. I will continue working to support Hawaii’s colleges and universities, and the students they serve.” Direct-to-camera video of the Senator discussing her visit, along with b-roll of the Senator speaking with students at the University, is available to download here. CLEAR is designed to provide labor education, research, and labor-related programs to workers, their organizations, and the general public. The UHWO Early College High School Program Consortium works with the UH System partners to provide educational opportunities to schools who serve college students who come from largely underrepresented backgrounds in higher education. As an Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institution (ANNHSI), UHWO has also received funding from this program in order to expand their capacity to serve these students. Senator Hirono is a longstanding champion of programs that support underrepresented members of our community, particularly Hawaii’s indigenous, Native Hawaiian community. She has consistently advocated for programs that increase the number of low-income students prepared to attend college, and has strongly advocated for the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-hirono-statement-honoring-veterans-day | VIDEO: Hirono Statement Honoring Veterans Day | 2022-11-10 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, issued the following statement ahead of Veterans Day: “On Veterans Day, we honor the service, bravery, and commitment of our veterans, who sacrifice so much in defense of our nation. Over the past two years, Congress has made critical progress for veterans in Hawaii and across our country. We’ve expanded VA care for millions of post-9/11 veterans, and increased mental health care for our veterans. The PACT Act has already helped veterans like one Honolulu resident who submitted a VA claim prior to the law’s passage, but was denied. After the PACT Act was signed into law, his condition became covered by the VA, and my office was able to help get his claim granted. “Here in Hawaii, we are advancing construction of the Daniel K. Akaka Outpatient VA clinic on Oahu, which will serve veterans across our state. We must continue building on this progress to help ensure all of our veterans can access the benefits they’ve earned. As a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, I’m working to provide the VA with the resources they need to continue delivering for our veterans. I’ll keep fighting to ensure all of our veterans and their families receive the support they deserve.” Video of Senator Hirono discussing Veterans Day is available here ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/new-senate-report-from-hirono-lawmakers-health-care-providers-speak-out-on-devastating-harm-and-mortal-threats-to-women-posed-by-state-abortion-bans | New Senate Report from Hirono, Lawmakers: Health Care Providers Speak Out on Devastating Harm and Mortal Threats to Women Posed by State Abortion Bans | 2022-11-01 | 2022 | 2022-11 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Tina Smith (D-MN) released a new report revealing the devastating consequences of state abortion bans and restrictions enacted by right-wing legislatures and the impacts of Senate Republicans’ extreme proposal to ban abortion nationwide after 15 weeks. Post-Roe Abortion Bans Threaten Women’s Lives: Health Care Providers Speak Out on the Devastating Harm Posed by Abortion Bans and Restrictions is a 23-page report led by Senator Warren based on information provided by leading health care providers. The report details the effects of these radical laws on women’s access to health care as described by health care organizations representing doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and hospitals. “This report details the devastating consequences of state-level abortion bans and the potential impact of the GOP’s push to outlaw abortion nationwide,” said Senator Hirono. “The Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision has sowed chaos and confusion even in states like Hawaii where abortion remains legal, endangering the health and safety of millions and disproportionately impacting communities of color. As MAGA Republicans work to advance a national abortion ban, we’ll continue fighting to defend reproductive freedom and codify abortion access nationwide.” The key findings of the report include: State-imposed restrictions on abortion care affect all women seeking reproductive health care, even in states where abortion remains legal. AMA wrote that “State-imposed restrictions on abortion care have certainly resulted in diminished access to pregnancy care, reproductive care, and other health care, as well as delays in such care.” NNU wrote that “In states where abortion is legal and protected, nurses are beginning to see increased patient loads because of patients traveling to these states to receive the reproductive health care they need. This will put additional strain on nurses who are already chronically understaffed at hosp… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-joins-colleagues-in-urging-doj-and-atf-to-clarify-and-enforce-ghost-guns-rule | Hirono Joins Colleagues in Urging DOJ and ATF to Clarify and Enforce Ghost Guns Rule | 2022-10-31 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined thirteen of her Senate colleagues in urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to issue enforcement guidance and clarify the recently finalized Ghost Gun Rule. The rule regulates unfinished frames and receivers that are the core components used to construct ghost guns, untraceable firearms which have become the preferred instruments for criminals and violent extremists and pose a severe threat to the public and law enforcement. Ghost gun companies have attempted to avoid the rule’s restrictions by claiming that they can still legally sell “nearly-complete” frames and receivers as standalone products, without tools and other materials to complete a ghost gun, without running afoul of the new rule. “These companies have adopted the position that selling nearly-complete frames and receivers without the tools (commonly known as jigs) or instructions to complete them means that their products are not firearms under federal law,” the senators wrote to Attorney General Merrick Garland and ATF Director Steven Dettelbach. “Of the 100 companies previously known to sell unserialized and nearly-complete frames and receivers, dozens remain engaged in that business.” In 2020, Hawaii enacted a law restricting the possession, manufacturing, and sale of ghost gun kits and parts. However, federal agencies have reported a significant increase in the number of ghost guns found throughout the state. Last month, a man on Oahu was caught with two dozen ghost guns and illegal parts. The number of ghost guns recovered at potential crime scenes has grown exponentially, jumping from 1,758 in 2016 to 19,344 in 2021 alone. That these firearms are untraceable only makes it more difficult for law enforcement to develop leads and solve crimes. Between January 1, 2016, and March 4, 2021, ATF attempted to trace almost 23,946 recovered ghost guns, but could only complete 151 traces.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-president-elect-luiz-inacio-lula-da-silva-of-brazil | Schatz Statement On President-Elect Luiz Inácio Lula Da Silva Of Brazil | 2022-10-31 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on the election of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva as president of Brazil. “Lula’s win is a victory for global climate action. The importance of the Amazon as a carbon sink cannot be overstated, and its preservation is critical to preventing the most destructive climate change scenarios. Lula significantly curbed deforestation during his previous tenure in office, and I am eager to work with him to restore environmental protections in the Amazon, support indigenous communities, and drive international progress on climate.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=985 | Case Joins House Colleagues In Celebrating Filipino American History Month | 2022-10-28 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | House | HI | Ed Case | C001055 | case.house.gov | case | https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=17 | scraper | (Washington, DC) – U.S. Congressman Ed Case (HI-01) today co-led introduction in the U.S. House alongside Congresswoman Young Kim (CA-39), Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-3), Congresswoman Michelle Steel (CA-48) and 23 other colleagues of a bi-partisan measure to celebrate October 2022 as Filipino American History Month. “Each year our country recognizes October as Filipino American History Month, a time for all Americans to celebrate the incredible past, present and future of our fellow citizens whose heritage lies in the great country of the Philippines,” said Congressman Ed Case in his written remarks submitted to the Congressional Record. “I am especially humbled to do so as the Representative of Hawaii’s First Congressional District, where according to the 2021 American Community Survey more than 190,000 Filipino Americans live, more than any other of our 435 districts throughout the country. “With Hawaii’s Second Congressional District – with the second largest Filipino American population – our Fil-Am community in Hawai’i stands at more than 370,000. “In total, fully a quarter of all Hawai’i residents are Filipino Americans, by far the largest percentage of any state or territory.” In his remarks, Case spotlighted the arrival of the first Filipinos who immigrated to the United States on October 18, 1587, when the ship the Nuestra Señora de Esperanza arrived in Morro Bay, California. The first Filipinos to arrive in I came onboard the SS Doric in 1906 with fifteen “sakadas” (contract laborers) who arrived in Honolulu to work in the sugar plantations. “To Fil-Ams everywhere, Maraming Salamat Po and Dios ti Agngina, congratulations. I truly look forward to partnering with you on your next proud chapters,” said Case. “As the only currently serving member of Congress with Filipino ancestry and co-chair of the U.S.-Philippines Friendship Caucus, I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution to celebrate Filipino American History Month,” said Congressman Bobby Scott. “Filipino Americans have… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-announces-5-million-in-federal-funding-for-epas-clean-school-bus-program-in-hawaii | Hirono Announces $5 Million in Federal Funding for EPA’s Clean School Bus Program in Hawaii | 2022-10-27 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU, HI – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, announced that the Hawaii Department of Education will receive nearly $5 million to procure 25 new electric school buses. The grant is funded through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) Clean School Bus Program, and will help 29 school districts across the Pacific Southwest purchase over 280 clean school buses that will accelerate the transition to zero emissions vehicles and produce cleaner air in and around schools and communities. “Updating our school bus fleet with electric vehicles is critical as Hawaii moves to clean, renewable energy,” said Senator Hirono. “This funding, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will bolster Hawaii’s transition to electric vehicles while reducing the health risks of traditional diesel-burning buses to our keiki. I’ll continue working to support projects like this that strengthen Hawaii’s leadership in the transition to a clean energy future.” The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air, and the 2022 Clean School Bus Rebates prioritize low-income, rural, and Tribal communities. In total, President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will be awarding nearly $95 million to this year’s grant recipients in American Samoa, Arizona, California, Hawaii, and Nevada. As Chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Energy, Senator Hirono is working to expand the presence of electric vehicles and speed the transition to clean, renewable energy in Hawaii and across the country. In August, Senator Hirono helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which includes $1 billion for EPA grants to states or municipalities to cover the incremental cost of purchasing heavy-duty vehicles, like school and transit buses and garbage trucks. Last year, she helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), which invests billions in climate mitigation, resilience, and safety, including … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-announces-473-million-in-federal-funding-for-kapalama-container-terminal-project | Hirono Announces $47.3 Million in Federal Funding for Kapalama Container Terminal Project | 2022-10-26 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU, HI – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), today announced a $47.3 million grant through U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) for the Hawaii Department of Transportation’s (HDOT) Kapalama Container Terminal (KCT) Project at Honolulu Harbor. The grant is funded through MARAD’s Port Infrastructure Development Program and will be used to improve efficiency and resiliency and reduce emissions at the Harbor. In June, Senator Hirono and the Hawaii congressional delegation wrote to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in support of this funding and earlier this month, she visited the harbor to highlight the importance of federal funding for the harbor and the KCT expansion project. “My recent visit to Honolulu Harbor highlighted how critical it is to Hawaii’s economy, handling more than 11 million tons of cargo every year,” said Senator Hirono. “The infusion of federal funding into the Kapalama Container Terminal Project will help improve the Honolulu Harbor’s resilience and efficiency by electrifying the harbor’s cranes and installing an electrical micro-grid, solar panels, and batteries to store power. As work continues to expand the harbor’s capacity, this federal funding will help reduce the harbor’s environmental impact and make it more resilient to threats including climate change, helping more cargo reach families and businesses across the islands quickly and efficiently. I’ll continue working to secure the federal funding Hawaii needs to strengthen our infrastructure and ensure the reliability of our supply chains.” The federal funding will be matched by $92 million in private funds. Specifically, the funding will support four activities, including: Upgrades to human-operated electrified ship-to-shore cranes, acquisition of new equipment, and installation of solar panels on terminal buildings that will improve the reliability of port operations; Smart gate and security technology to improve safety and operational efficiency; An electrical micro-grid to improve… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-announces-137-million-usda-grant-to-combat-coffee-leaf-rust-in-hawaii | Hirono Announces $1.37 Million USDA Grant to Combat Coffee Leaf Rust in Hawaii | 2022-10-21 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) awarded $1.37 million to the Hawaii Agriculture Research Center to support the Center’s work to combat Coffee Leaf Rust (CLR) in Hawaii. The funding comes from NIFA’s Specialty Crop Research Initiatives (SCRI) program, and will be used to revitalize the organization’s coffee breeding program in an effort to produce coffee with CLR resistance. “Since its discovery in Hawaii in 2020, Coffee Leaf Rust has been a threat to one of our most important local agricultural industries,” said Senator Hirono. “This funding is crucial in supporting the work being done in Hawaii to combat Coffee Leaf Rust and save an industry that generates hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity each year. I am glad that the USDA is continuing to provide necessary resources to address CLR and I’ll continue working to support farmers across our state.” Coffee Leaf Rust (CLR) is considered the most devastating coffee disease in the world. According to the Hawaii Agriculture Research Center, coffee is one of the most economically valuable specialty crops in Hawaii—the raw crop value of Hawaiian coffee is $62 million and generates approximately $500 million in economic activity each year. It is produced commercially on six islands by over 1,400 growers and has a cultural heritage dating back over 150 years. In 2020, when CLR was first discovered in Hawaii, Senator Hirono urged the USDA to provide a swift response to contain and treat the fungus. Last year, Senator Hirono introduced the Coffee Plant Health Initiative Amendments Act that would expand research funding to address all current and emerging threats to coffee plant health, including CLR, and Hawaii was also awarded $6 million by NIFA to address CLR. NIFA’s Specialty Crop Research Initiatives (SCRI) program awards grants to support research that addresses key challenges of national, regional, and multistate impo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-murray-shaheen-warren-applaud-dod-action-to-ensure-access-to-reproductive-care | Hirono, Murray, Shaheen, Warren Applaud DOD Action to Ensure Access to Reproductive Care | 2022-10-20 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP), and Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today applauded the Department of Defense’s (DOD) memorandum on ensuring access to reproductive health care: “Today’s announcement from the Department of Defense is a significant step toward protecting the reproductive freedom of servicemembers and their families. These actions will help ensure that our servicemembers can access the health care they need, while protecting the medical professionals who provide this care. As Republicans in Washington and across the country work to enact a nationwide abortion ban following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn a 50 year Constitutional right, the federal government must use every available tool to protect the fundamental right to reproductive care for all women, including our servicemembers. We’re glad to see DOD taking these steps, and we hope the Department will continue working to strengthen the reproductive rights of all servicemembers and their families.” In June, following the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade, Senator Hirono led a group of her Senate colleagues in calling on DOD to take immediate steps to support and protect female servicemembers seeking abortion services. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-statement-on-water-issues-at-joint-base-pearl-harbor-hickam | Hirono Statement on Water Issues at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam | 2022-10-20 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after speaking with U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) Commander Admiral John Aquilino and Assistant Secretary of the Navy Energy, Installations and Environment, Meredith Berger about the ongoing water issues at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam: “Families and servicemembers in Hawaii are bearing the brunt of aging and poorly maintained infrastructure—this is unacceptable. The recent pipe breaks in the Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam water system has resulted in families, servicemembers and impacted communities being unable to shower, having to boil their cooking water, and face other disruptions in their day-to-day life. The incident has also forced the Navy to pause their defueling efforts at Red Hill. While the Navy worked with the Department of Health and the Board of Water Supply to remedy the situation, we need long-term solutions, not just short-term fixes. Yesterday, I spoke with INDOPACOM Commander, Admiral Aquilino and Assistant Secretary of the Navy Energy, Installations and Environment, Meredith Berger—who is responsible for overseeing all issues impacting Navy infrastructure. We discussed the need for the Department of Defense to be forward thinking when it comes to safeguarding and modernizing critical infrastructure in Hawaii and across the region. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I’m committed to making that happen in order to protect families and ensure INDOPACOM meets its mission of enhancing stability in our region.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-new-cfpb-action-will-help-address-credit-report-errors | Schatz: New CFPB Action Will Help Address Credit Report Errors | 2022-10-20 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today commended the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) on newly issued guidance to consumer reporting companies about their obligation to screen for and eliminate errors from consumers’ credit reports. In November, Schatz urged the agency to help improve the accuracy of credit reports, streamline the dispute resolution process, and hold consumer reporting agencies accountable for addressing persistent errors. “Mistakes on credit reports have real impacts. It may mean people will end up having to pay more for credit or be denied loans altogether. It also might make it harder to land a job, get a mortgage, or rent an apartment. This new guidance is a good first step to helping eliminate these kinds of errors. But CFPB can and should do more to hold credit reporting agencies accountable for these mistakes,” said Senator Schatz. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-more-than-27-million-heading-to-hawaii-to-strengthen-access-to-health-care-reduce-health-disparities-keep-more-people-healthy | Schatz: More Than $27 Million Heading To Hawai‘i To Strengthen Access To Health Care, Reduce Health Disparities, Keep More People Healthy | 2022-10-18 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today announced more than $27 million in funding to Hawai‘i from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to support programs and research that expand access to health care and domestic violence programs, reduce racial and ethnic health disparities, and support the health care workforce. This funding includes over $4.3 million in congressionally-directed spending secured by Schatz, and millions of dollars more as a result of his work as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “Local agencies and organizations do important work providing community and behavioral health services, addressing health disparities, and conducting innovative research into cancer and other serious diseases. By supporting these programs, we’re helping to keep more people across Hawai‘i healthy and safe,” said Senator Schatz. The more than $27 million in funding includes: $15.6 million to improve access to health care, strengthen services in rural and underserved communities, expand behavioral health services, and support domestic violence programs Health Care $4,636,147 for the West Hawai‘i Community Health Center to continue providing health care services to underserved communities $3,000,000 for Hale Makua to support care and services for seniors $150,000 for Waikiki Health to support HIV care, treatment, and support through the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Behavioral Health Services $4,000,000 for the Hawai‘i Department of Health’s Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division to strengthen opioid treatment programs $999,857 for the Hawai‘i Department of Health to support the planning, development, and implementation of the Maui County Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic, the first clinic in the state providing comprehensive mental health and substance use services to receive this designation $698,458 for the Hawai‘i Department of Health to develop the OHANA Center of Excellence on Empowering Behavioral Health, which will serve as the U.S. hub for enhancing b… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-new-interior-department-consultation-policy-with-native-hawaiian-community | Schatz Statement On New Interior Department Consultation Policy With Native Hawaiian Community | 2022-10-18 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, released the following statement after the Department of the Interior announced its first-ever consultation policy with the Native Hawaiian community. “This is a very big deal and a vital first step. One of the most important principles in policymaking, especially as it relates to Native communities, is: ‘nothing about me, without me.’ This policy update recognizes that consultation with Native Hawaiians is an essential aspect of decision-making for the federal government and key to upholding its trust responsibility. We have long way to go, but all progress starts with listening.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-blackburn-eshoo-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-help-expose-foreign-government-funded-propaganda-improve-broadcast-television-and-radio-programming-transparency | Schatz, Blackburn, Eshoo Introduce Bipartisan Bill To Help Expose Foreign Government-Funded Propaganda, Improve Broadcast Television And Radio Programming Transparency | 2022-10-17 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) have introduced the Identifying Propaganda on Our Airwaves (IPA) Act, bipartisan legislation to help disclose foreign propaganda on American broadcast television and radio. The bill authorizes the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to require that broadcasters check foreign media databases to better identify groups sponsoring programming. Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representative Anna Eshoo (D-Calif.). “Foreign governments shouldn’t be able to hide behind shell companies to fund misinformation and propaganda on American airwaves,” said Senator Schatz, a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. “By giving the FCC the authority to require disclosure of this foreign propaganda, our bipartisan bill will help stop this practice and improve programming transparency on TV and the radio.” “Americans deserve the right to make informed decisions about the media they consume," said Senator Blackburn. “Under current regulations, the New Axis of Evil can use shell companies to broadcast regime-funded propaganda across American airwaves. This legislation will protect consumer transparency by requiring the disclosure of foreign government-sponsored content.” “In July, the D.C. Circuit struck down a portion of the FCC rule that required clearer foreign sponsorship disclosures for radio broadcasters, claiming that the FCC did not have such authority. This was a disastrous decision. The rule required that broadcasters simply check two federal sources to verify an ad sponsor’s identity, a rule implemented at my urging. The American people deserve to know when radio programming they hear on public airwaves is foreign government-funded propaganda,” said Representative Eshoo. “Our legislation unambiguously grants the FCC the authority to require broadcasters to conduct reasonable diligence to identify foreign agents and their shell companies so Americans … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-announces-128-million-in-american-rescue-plan-funding-for-uh-to-train-community-health-workers | Hirono Announces $1.28 Million in American Rescue Plan Funding for UH to Train Community Health Workers | 2022-10-14 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) awarded $1.28 million in federal funding to the University of Hawaii (UH) Systems to train new community health workers. The funding is part of the Community Health Worker Training Program created by the American Rescue Plan, which Senator Hirono helped pass last year. Currently, there are over 2,000 community health workers operating through several organizations throughout Hawaii. “As we work to combat our health care worker shortage in Hawaii and across the country, it is crucial that we invest in programs to grow our health care workforce,” said Senator Hirono. “By enabling UH to train additional community health workers, this funding will help families in Hawaii, especially those from underserved communities, navigate our health care system so they can access the care they need. I’ll continue working to strengthen Hawaii’s health care system and eliminate barriers to quality health care.” In 2021, UH graduated a record number of students enrolled in its Community Health Worker certificate program. In Hawaii, CHWs are employed by various organizations, including qualified health centers, hospitals, nonprofits, and state agencies. They serve as a bridge between the community and the health care system by providing health education, information, and direct services to community members. As part of the American Rescue Plan, HHS awarded over $225 million in grants through the Community Health Worker Training Program to 83 organizations across the country. The Community Health Worker Training Program is a multi-year program that supports training and apprenticeship for new community health workers (CHWs). This funding will be used to train 13,000 new CHWs and help ensure all patients have access to health care. Senator Hirono has long worked to address the health care worker shortage and ensure Hawaii’s communities can access the care they need. In 2020, she helped Community Health Cente… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-announces-19-million-awarded-to-uh-manoa-and-uh-maui-college-to-promote-food-and-agricultural-science-programs | Hirono Announces $1.9 Million Awarded to UH Manoa and UH Maui College to Promote Food and Agricultural Science Programs | 2022-10-13 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) awarded $1.9 million in federal funding to programs at the University of Hawaii (UH) at Manoa and the University of Hawaii Maui College. The funding, which aims to promote and strengthen Alaska Native-Serving and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions, will provide financial support for these institutions to carry out education, applied research, and community development programs within a broadly defined arena of food and agricultural sciences-related disciplines. “This funding is an important investment in the future of Hawaii’s food and agriculture system, and the Native Hawaiian communities that have been stewards of the land for centuries,” said Senator Hirono. “UH’s programs, like GoFarm, play an important role in teaching and training the next generation of individuals who will care for the land and be responsible for strengthening Hawaii’s sustainability practices. I am glad that this funding will be used to support our local economy, develop our workforce, and engage members of the Native Hawaiian community as we work to protect the land and feed our communities for years to come.” The funding will be used to support two programs at UH Manoa and one at UH Maui College. The projects at UH Manoa include GoFarm Hawaii and Hawaii-One-Ag. GoFarm Hawaii is a statewide beginning farmer training program aiming to help enhance Hawaii’s food security and local economy by reducing dependence on imported food and increasing the number of sustainable, local agricultural producers. Hawaii-One-Ag creates and provides a number of diverse educational opportunities, and engages with high school and college students, as well as agricultural workers who want to develop their professional and technical skills. The UH Maui College program, Ike Kupuna: Integrating Traditional Knowledge into Natural Resource Sciences, combines modern and traditional methods in order … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-secures-1-million-in-new-federal-funding-to-support-native-hawaiian-community-cultural-education-for-visitors | Schatz Secures $1 Million In New Federal Funding To Support Native Hawaiian Community, Cultural Education For Visitors | 2022-10-12 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today announced that seven Native Hawaiian organizations working to preserve and share Native Hawaiian culture and traditions with visitors will receive $1 million in funding from the U.S. Department of the Interior to continue doing so. The funding is made possible by the NATIVE Act, 2016 legislation authored by Senator Schatz to help empower Native communities through cultural tourism. “Everyone who visits Hawai?i should understand and appreciate Native Hawaiian culture, and this funding will help give local organizations the resources they need to preserve and share these important traditions,” said Senator Schatz, chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. The new funding, part of the Interior Department’s Opportunities in Hawai?i (HO?IHI) Program, will support a number of educational programs for visitors, in turn helping to create jobs, increase living standards, and expand economic opportunities for Native Hawaiian communities. The full list of recipients includes: ?Ao?ao o Na Loko I?a o Maui, for the Ko?ie?ie Fishpond Visitor Engagement Program, which will help educate visitors about the cultural and historical significance of Ko‘ie‘ie Fishpond Hanalei River Heritage Foundation, for the I Mana Ka ‘Aina Visitor Engagement Program, which will develop a bilingual, historical interpretive educational program for visitors Hi?ipaka LLC, for Ho?ihi no Waimea, which will engage visitors in interactive cultural activities such as lei making, coconut weaving, and poi pounding Moanalua Garden Foundation Inc., to support the 46th Annual Prince Lot Hula Festival Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association, to support engagement programs with visitors and Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners PA?I Foundation, for Nana I Ke Kumu: Look to the Source, which will educate and engage visitors on the traditions, principles and values of the Native Hawaiian people Wai?anae Economic Development Council, for E Mau Ke A?o: Sustaining the Cultural Practitioner, whic… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-statement-on-hdoh-approval-of-red-hill-defueling-plan | Hirono Statement on HDOH Approval of Red Hill Defueling Plan | 2022-10-07 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU, HI –Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after the Hawaii Department of Health approved the Department of Defense’s plan to begin the next step of the defueling process at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility: “The approval of this plan is a critical step toward permanently closing Red Hill. I have urged leaders at the Defense Department including Secretary Austin and JTF Red Hill Commander Wade to begin the defueling process as soon as is safely possible,” said Senator Hirono. “Transparency and collaboration have been essential in this process so far, and will continue to be as we work together to quickly and safely defuel and close Red Hill.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-statement-on-water-outage-at-tripler-army-medical-center | Hirono Statement on Water Outage at Tripler Army Medical Center | 2022-10-07 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU, HI –Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on the water outage currently impacting Tripler Army Medical Center (TAMC), which serves servicemember and veterans on Oahu: “I am closely monitoring the water outage at Tripler. My staff and I have reached out to the relevant agencies to offer our assistance and support as we await more information about the extent of the damage and the impact on patients and families living on base. We will continue monitoring the situation and working with state and federal officials to help ensure our servicemembers and veterans continue to receive the care they need and deserve. Our number one priority must be ensuring the health and wellbeing of the servicemembers and veterans that Tripler serves.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/photos-hirono-hosts-roundtable-discussion-with-kupuna-collective-on-supporting-hawaiis-seniors | PHOTOS: Hirono Hosts Roundtable Discussion with Kupuna Collective on Supporting Hawaii’s Seniors | 2022-10-07 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU, HI –Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) met with the Kupuna Collective, a network of support organizations that focus on maximizing the health, independence, and engagement of Hawaii’s older adults, for a roundtable conversation about supporting seniors in Hawaii. During the roundtable, Senator Hirono discussed issues including food security, senior care workforce shortages, and the recently-passed Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which will lower health care costs for the nearly 280,000 seniors in Hawaii who get their health care through Medicare. “The Kupuna Collective came together at the start of the pandemic to meet the needs of our kupuna in Hawaii who weren’t able to take advantage of mass food distributions and vaccine initiatives,” said Senator Hirono. “The Collective was able to identify gaps in services and respond quickly by leveraging resources and justifying their needs to donors through careful data collection and analysis. When seniors across our state were struggling to afford food, this group came together to help make sure they had enough to eat, and it has continued working to support our seniors with access to vaccines, daily meals to meet their medical needs, digital resources, and more. Our community owes the Kupuna Collective a debt of gratitude. With the recently-passed Inflation Reduction Act, we’re also meeting the needs of our seniors by lowering the cost of health care and prescription drugs, and making sure seniors on Medicare can get the vaccines they need free of cost, thanks to a provision I authored.” Roundtable participants included Derrick Ariyoshi, County Executive for the Elderly Affairs Division with the City and County of Honolulu; Lindsey Ilagan, Hawaii Public Health Institute Kupuna program manager and co-convener of the Kupuna Collective; Christy Nishita, Director of the UH Manoa Thompson School of Social Work Center on Aging and co-convener of the Kupuna Collective; Michelle Cordero-Lee, Lanakila Pacific Meals on Wheels Program CEO; and Kathy Wyatt, Hale Hauoli Adu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hawaii-schools-to-receive-more-than-14-million-to-provide-students-with-healthy-meals | Hawai‘i Schools To Receive More Than $1.4 Million To Provide Students With Healthy Meals | 2022-10-07 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today announced that Hawai‘i will receive $1,417,688 in new federal funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support school meal programs. This money will help schools provide students with nutritious meals, supporting families that face food insecurity and addressing food shortages amid supply chain challenges. “Kids throughout Hawai‘i rely on school meals so that they can stay healthy and succeed in school,” said Senator Schatz, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “This funding will help make sure that schools have the resources they need to continue providing their students with nutritious meals.” The funding is part of $471.5 million from the USDA for schools to address supply chain disruptions and make sure increased food costs don’t harm school meal programs. The new funding follows a December 2021 announcement of nearly $5 million and a July 2022 announcement of more than $3 million from the USDA to help support school food programs in Hawai‘i. In July, Schatz secured a provision in this year’s draft appropriations bill that would direct the USDA to temporarily increase its school meal reimbursement rate for Hawai‘i while the agency completes its years-long study to update its severely outdated cost estimates for school meals, which have not changed since 1979. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-doh-approval-of-plan-to-drain-red-hill-pipelines | Schatz Statement On DOH Approval Of Plan To Drain Red Hill Pipelines | 2022-10-07 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) released the following statement after the Hawai‘i Department of Health approved the Navy’s plan to drain pipelines at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. “This is a positive step toward defueling and shutting down Red Hill. DoD must continue to work with state officials and community leaders as quickly as possible. There’s no turning back, and there’s no time to waste.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/photos-and-video-hirono-hosts-va-secretary-denis-mcdonough-for-field-hearing-meetings-with-veterans-on-oahu | PHOTOS & VIDEO: Hirono Hosts VA Secretary Denis McDonough for Field Hearing, Meetings with Veterans on Oahu | 2022-10-05 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU, HI – Today, Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, hosted a series of events focused on discussing the state of veterans’ affairs (VA) resources and programs in Hawaii. Senator Hirono started the day chairing a field hearing of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee at the Oahu Veterans Center, highlighting some of the challenges Hawaii veterans face, including access to health care, education, housing, and other benefits. “It is clear that our veterans and the larger VA community face numerous challenges,” said Senator Hirono. “But my colleagues and I on the Veterans Affairs Committee are committed to strengthening the VA and helping to ensure all of our veterans can access the resources and support they need and deserve. In partnership with Secretary McDonough and his colleagues at the VA, we will continue working to ensure our veterans and their loved ones receive the care they’ve earned, and provide VA with the resources and support it needs to continue delivering for our veterans.” During the hearing, Senator Hirono questioned U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough about the progress that has been made under his leadership and the Biden Administration, including the recent passage of the PACT Act, as well as the work ahead to better support the many challenges veterans in Hawaii continue to face. As of 2020, there were over 113,000 veterans in Hawaii, comprising over 10 percent of Hawaii’s adult population. Following the Secretary’s testimony, Senator Hirono questioned a second panel of witnesses, which included local veterans, as well as leadership from the Hawaii Office of Veterans’ Services and other local organizations. “There are an estimated 113,000 Veterans in Hawaii, and our shared mission—at VA, in Congress, and as a nation—is to serve every one of those Veterans as well as they’ve served our country,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough.“We at VA look forward to continuing to partner with Senator Hirono to deliver … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/photos-and-video-hirono-plants-ohia-lehua-tree-at-east-west-center-tours-local-manufacturer-hpc-foods/taro-brand- | PHOTOS & VIDEO: Hirono Plants Ohia Lehua Tree at East-West Center, Tours Local Manufacturer HPC Foods/Taro Brand | 2022-10-04 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU, HI –Today, Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) visited the East-West Center and local manufacturer HPC Foods/Taro Brand. The Senator began her day at the East-West Center, which promotes better relations and understanding among the people of the Asia-Pacific region and the United States. “I was honored to join East-West Center President Suzy Vares-Lum to plant the first ohia lehua mamo tree in the Center’s Friendship Circle,” said Senator Hirono. “This endemic native plant, known for its resiliency and ability to blossom even after a lava flow, is a gracious reminder that we all must endure the challenging times to emerge stronger. Ohia serve a critical role in the functioning of Hawaii’s forested watersheds and must be protected, which is why I introduced legislation to combat Rapid Ohia Death.” Last month, the Senator introduced legislation to combat Rapid Ohia Death, which has killed more than a million ohia trees in Hawaii since its discovery in 2014. Afterwards, Senator Hirono, a member of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, participated in a manufacturing tour at HPC Foods/Taro Brand, which received a $1.8 million Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) during the pandemic. Senator Hirono was joined on the tour by leadership from HTDC, a state agency responsible for diversifying Hawaii’s economy through the growth and development of the state’s technology industry. In August, Senator Hirono visited HTDC’s Entrepreneurs Sandbox with SBA Administrator Isabella Guzman. “As we approach National Manufacturing Day, I enjoyed spending time with the Tottori family of HPC Foods/Taro Brand that continues their father and grandfather’s strong work ethic and sound business practices ,” said Senator Hirono. “Employing more than 180 people in Hawaii, Taro Brands is one of the many small businesses driving our state’s economy forward. I’m glad that with help from the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program, Taro Brand was a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/photos-hirono-tours-honolulu-harbor-to-highlight-impact-of-the-inflation-reduction-act | PHOTOS: Hirono Tours Honolulu Harbor to Highlight Impact of the Inflation Reduction Act | 2022-10-03 | 2022 | 2022-10 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | HONOLULU, HI – Today, Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), toured the Honolulu Harbor and Kapalama Container Terminal (KCT) site, and met with officials from the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) and shipping companies to discuss the progress of the KCT expansion project and the importance of the $3 billion included in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) for port electrification across the country. Last month, Senator Hirono voted to pass the IRA, landmark legislation that lowered costs for families by investing billions in renewable energy. “Honolulu Harbor is critical to Hawaii’s economy, handling more than 11 million tons of cargo every year,” said Senator Hirono. “As efforts continue to expand the Harbor’s capacity and its ability to serve our state, we also have an opportunity to reduce its impact on our environment. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, we’re investing billions of dollars to upgrade and electrify ports in Hawaii and across the country. I’m proud to help secure federal funding to support modernizing Honolulu Harbor, and I’ll continue working to support infrastructure modernization projects across Hawaii.” The purpose of the KCT project is to improve cargo handling capabilities at Honolulu Harbor, the hub of Hawaii’s commercial harbor system. KCT, when complete, will add about 40% container capacity at the Harbor at a cost of about $555 million. The project includes the construction of a 65-acre container yard, support buildings, entry and exit gates, security fencing, parking, gantry cranes and container handling equipment, and outdoor energy-efficient lighting, as well as building 1,800 linear feet of additional berthing capacity, dredging of the waterfront and harbor channel, widening and reconstructing several piers, and elevating the piers by nine feet to mitigate the impacts of rising sea levels. “Much of what we consume in Hawaii is imported, and more than ninety percent moves through our harbors,” said Hawaii Department of Transportation Directo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-leads-16-colleagues-in-resolution-designating-asian-american-and-native-american-pacific-islander-serving-institutions-week | Hirono Leads 16 Colleagues in Resolution Designating Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Week | 2022-09-30 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), introduced a resolution designating the week of September 26th through October 2nd, 2022 as Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANAPISI) Week. The resolution recognizes the achievements and goals of AANAPISIs in their work to provide quality educational opportunities to students who attend their institutions, particularly Asian and Pacific Islander American (APIA) students, including Native Hawaiians. “Over the past fifteen years, the AANAPISI program has helped institutions across our country expand opportunities for APIA students,” said Senator Hirono. “They help build community by connecting students from diverse backgrounds, and provide culturally-competent supports, to help ensure students have the tools they need to succeed. I’ll continue working to support APIA students and the schools that serve them.” Congress created the AANAPISI program through the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007 (P.L. 110-84), which Senator Hirono cosponsored as a then-member of the U.S. House of Representatives. To be designated as an AANAPISI, an institution must have an enrollment of undergraduate students that is at least 10 percent Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander students. AANAPISIs comprise six percent of all colleges and universities in the U.S., but enroll nearly half of all APIA students in the country. In 2022, there were nearly 200 AANAPISIs in the U.S. Since the program was established 15 years ago, it has provided grants and other assistance to AANAPISIs to improve and expand their capacity to continue to serve these students. In 2021, 32 AANAPISIs across the country received $9.6 million in grants. In addition to Senator Hirono, this resolution is cosponsored by Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Bob Casey … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-led-legislation-to-protect-survivors-of-sexual-assault-and-harassment-passes-in-senate | Hirono-Led Legislation to Protect Survivors of Sexual Assault and Harassment Passes in Senate | 2022-09-30 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, voted to pass the Speak Out Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation she led with Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) to limit the enforceability of non-disclosure agreements and non-disparagement agreements (NDAs) where a sexual harassment or sexual assault dispute arises and survivors wish to break their silence. The legislation passed the Senate unanimously, and awaits action in the House of Representatives. “NDAs have been weaponized by employers, corporations, and others in power to cover up abuse and sexual misconduct,” said Senator Hirono. “The Speak Out Act empowers survivors to make the decision about whether to tell their story—a choice they have been denied for too long. Survivors should not be forced into silence and this bill will help them come forward. I’m glad to see this legislation pass unanimously in the Senate and I will keep working to get it passed in the House and signed into law.” Under current law, individuals and organizations can use NDAs to prevent survivors of sexual harassment or assault from speaking publicly about these incidents. The threat of legal retaliation creates and enables a culture of silence that allows predators to continue their illegal conduct, while their victims are forced out of their careers and the workforce entirely. Specifically, the Speak Out Act would: Prohibit the use of predispute NDAs between employers and current, former, and prospective employees, as well as independent contractors; Prohibit the use of predispute NDAs between providers of goods and services and consumers, and; Allow States to enact additional protections beyond the Speak Out Act’s protections—setting a floor not a ceiling for restricting NDA enforceability. The House companion bill was introduced by Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL) and Ken Buck (R-CO). Senator Hirono is a strong advocate for survivors of sexual assault and harassment, and… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-hirono-colleagues-rally-with-servicemembers-and-veterans-to-defend-access-to-reproductive-care-amid-republicans-continued-attacks | VIDEO: Hirono, Colleagues Rally with Servicemembers and Veterans to Defend Access to Reproductive Care Amid Republicans’ Continued Attacks | 2022-09-30 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Mazie K. Hirono | H001042 | www.hirono.senate.gov | hirono | https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – As Republicans continue pushing to ban abortion nationwide and attack the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) historic action to provide abortion care for Veterans in certain circumstances, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, condemned Republicans’ barbaric efforts to restrict abortion. During a press conference with Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Patty Murray (D-WA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar (D-TX), Senator Hirono reiterated her commitment to protecting reproductive rights for veterans and servicemembers so they can get the healthcare services they need when and where they need it. The lawmakers were also joined by members of #UniformAccess, a coalition of various advocacy groups for women Veterans. “The battles we thought we had won, such as our right to control our own bodies, do not stay won—that’s why we are all here, because the assault on women’s health continues,” said Senator Hirono during the press conference. “Female veterans’, across our country, right to abortion care is under assault. And, as some of the other speakers mentioned, it matters—our advocacy, our pointing things out, our asking for action to be taken, works.” Last week, Senator Hirono announced that, following a push she led as a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed in a legal opinion that VA has the legal authority to provide abortion services in cases of rape, incest, and the life or health of the patient. In July, Senator Hirono called upon the VA to take immediate administrative action to offer abortions and all abortion-related services to veterans and eligible dependents. Earlier this month, Senator Hirono also condemned Republican attacks on the Biden Administration’s landmark decision to allow the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to provide abortion care to veterans and their eligible dependents to protect the health and life of the woman and in … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
| https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-fta-approval-of-harts-updated-recovery-plan | Schatz Statement On FTA Approval Of HART’s Updated Recovery Plan | 2022-09-30 | 2022 | 2022-09 | Democrat | Senate | HI | Brian Schatz | S001194 | www.schatz.senate.gov | schatz | https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, released the following statement after the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced it has approved the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit’s updated Recovery Plan. “We still have a long way to go, but this is an important step that recognizes the work HART and the city have done to provide more accountability and get this project back on track. I will continue to work with our federal and state partners to make sure that we complete this project for the people of Honolulu.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z |
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