url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/immigration-reform-and-the-importance-of-family,Immigration reform and the importance of family,2014-12-31,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Immigration reform and the importance of family By:  Senator Mazie K. Hirono Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Family is central to the holiday season in America: spending days at home together, traveling to visit family, sharing meals, and exchanging gifts.  Most of us take for granted that we’ll be with family this holiday season—and likely next holiday season as well.  But, we must remember the millions of hardworking people living in the United States who are still waiting for Congress to act so that they, too, can be with their loved ones at this time of year. As the United States Senate’s only immigrant, the issue of immigration reform is personal to me.  My mother brought me to America on the S.S. President Cleveland in steerage from Japan when I was almost eight years old.  Like most immigrants, mom had a dream that she could provide a better life for our family in the United States.  She was a single parent who escaped from an abusive marriage in Japan.  We started with very little, but we had each other.  And with our family support, we worked hard to pursue the American dream.  My mother changed my life by bringing me to this country, a country which afforded opportunities for a poor immigrant family like ours to make a better life. Under today’s broken immigration system, many immigrants do not have the family support that is so critical to success—and so fundamental to who we are as a country.  There are Filipino World War II veterans still waiting to be reunited with their children; there are families separated by visa backlogs that last years and even decades; and there are mothers and fathers being torn from their children because they don’t have the right paperwork.    These families wouldn’t have to endure another holiday season separated from their loved ones if we passed immigration reform.  Despite receiving the Senate’s bipartisan bill over a year ago, the House Republicans left Washington this month without even giving comprehensive immigration reform an up-or-down vote.  However, there is still reason for hope.  Just before Thanksgiving, President Obama used his executive authority to provide limited discretionary deportation relief to some undocumented mothers, fathers, and students living in our country.  The President’s executive action has given these families some peace of mind, albeit temporary, that they now won’t be torn from their families and communities and be deported if certain conditions are met.  As Nevada student and DREAMer Astrid Silva testified in a recent Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the President’s action that I chaired, at the very least she now knows that her dad will still be with her and her family this Christmas. Rather than stepping up to provide permanent solutions for immigration reform, my Republican friends are taking a page out of the Grinch’s playbook.  They’re choosing to spend their energy working to undo the President’s action at the expense of families like Astrid’s, rather than constructively working with the rest of us to pass the commonsense, humane reform that Americans overwhelmingly support.   Immigration reform legislation should not only keep families together, it should be good for our economy.  And it is.  Even with temporary actions like President Obama’s, allowing undocumented persons to come out of the shadows and work will generate billions in payroll taxes and is expected to lead to higher wages and increased worker protections for the entire workforce.  The benefit to our economy and communities when all 11 million undocumented people can step out of the shadows, work legally, and pay their taxes will be additional billions to stimulate our economy. Immigration reform isn’t just a Latino or border state issue.  It matters to all communities, like Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and all states—including my own state of Hawaii.  Immigration reform should matter to all of us who understand the importance of family as we make it through life.  I hope this holiday season, when we’re enjoying dinner or opening gifts or sitting in the pew at church, that we can think about those in this country who are still waiting to one day share those moments with their families, too. Sen. Hirono is the only immigrant in the U.S. Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-headlines/fema-and-hawaii-civil-defense-update-senator-hirono-on-lava-flow-impact,FEMA and Hawaii Civil Defense Update Senator Hirono on Lava Flow Impact,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Monday, December 22, 2014 FEMA and Hawaii Civil Defense Update Senator Hirono on Lava Flow Impact Senator Hirono received a comprehensive briefing from Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency, State Civil Defense, and Federal Emergency Management Agency on the June 27th lava flow progressing towards Pahoa on Hawaii Island. Darryl Oliveira, Hawaii County Civil Defense administrator, provided an update via videoconference. Hawaii County continues two daily fly-overs and provides regular updates to the community via social media, radio, recorded messages and media briefs.  Preparations continue as the lava flow impacts the livelihood of Pahoa. Some have moved but the majority of residents have remained. Businesses including Longs Drugs, Malama Market, Ace Hardware and the Aloha Petroleum gas station have closed. Utilities including electrical power have not yet been impacted. Puna residents remain concerned about their postal delivery. Senator Hirono receives a briefing on the lava flow in Pahoa at Hawaii State Civil Defense conference room in Diamond Head crater. Civil defense officials are monitoring smoke and vog and advising residents who have trouble breathing to take precautions and remain indoors. The Hawaii Department of Health has installed three temporary air quality monitors to collect data, which is available online. Two monitors are located in Pahoa and another is in Leilani Estates, but officials say they can be relocated as the lava flow moves or additional breakouts occur. Hawaii County has opened Railroad Avenue as an access route when the lava closes SR130.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-headlines/senator-hirono-meets-with-the-mayor-of-san-francisco-other-distinguished-dignitaries,"Senator Hirono Meets with the Mayor of San Francisco, Other Distinguished Dignitaries",2014-12-20,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Saturday, December 20, 2014 Senator Hirono Meets with the Mayor of San Francisco, Other Distinguished Dignitaries On the Senator’s return home to Hawaii, she joined San Francisco Mayor Edwin Lee and his guests for a holiday gathering in the City by the Bay. Among the topics discussed include developing business opportunities in Asia, immigration issues and finding ways to help middle class families. A gathering in The City by the Bay -- Right to Left: Caryl Ito, State Board of Equalization member-elect  Fiona Ma, State Assemblymember Evan Low, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono, Mayor Ed Lee, State Controller-elect Betty Yee, Steve Jacobs and former JACL president Floyd Mori",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-begins-meetings-india-promote-us-hawai-i-interests,"Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Begins Meetings in India to Promote U.S., Hawaii Interests",2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"NEW DELHI, INDIA On December 16 in India, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) began a visit to India at the invitation of India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who she recently met with during his visit to the U.S. During their first meeting, the two spoke of the priorities shared by India and the U.S., including defeating the threat posed by ISIS and other Islamic extremists, collaborating to address environmental concerns, and maximizing economic opportunities. The congresswoman's visit to India as the Prime Minister's guest will work towards these efforts. The potential for the relationship between the United States and India is extremely bright, and I wish to enhance this important partnership through my visit to India, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. I was honored to accept the invitation of Prime Minister Modi and look forward to meeting with him again. Throughout this visit, I will have the opportunity to meet with a variety of people from different industries in five major cities, with the objective of investing in and strengthening the relationship between the world's largest and oldest democracies. While in India, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard will build relationships with high ranking officials in government and the military, as well as meet with individuals and leaders in different industries, agencies, and organizations that promote business, technology and innovation, renewable energy, tourism, education, opportunities for women and children, and environmental protection. She will address the India Ideas Conclave in Goa, deliver welcoming remarks at the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry Conference, speak to students at Goa University, and participate in the Bangalore Innovation and Start-Ups technology conference. The congresswoman will also meet with the leadership of the Indian Film Industry to create more opportunities for the industry in Hawaii, as well as promote eco-tourism and other investments in the Aloha State. As a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the subcommittee on Asia-Pacific, Congresswoman Gabbard has demonstrated leadership in setting strong U.S. foreign policy. She serves on the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, which was established in 1994 and has been the driver of the India-U.S. bilateral relationship. Due to the increased efforts of this Caucus, among other things, the friendship and opportunities between these two countries has been strengthened and continues to grow. Congress is currently in recess, and Rep. Tulsi Gabbard will return to Washington, DC before Congress reconvenes on January 6, 2015. No U.S. tax dollars will be used to fund the travel and associated costs of the congresswoman's trip to India. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-statement-confirmation-vivek-murthy-surgeon-general,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Statement on Confirmation of Vivek Murthy as Surgeon General,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"NEW DELHI, INDIA From India today, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) released the following statement on the U.S. Senate's confirmation of Vivek Murthy as Surgeon General. He is the first Indian and first Hindu American to serve in this position. I extend my sincere congratulations to our new Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, who has demonstrated dedication to serving others, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. Dr. Murthy has shown his commitment and passion for improving healthcare, especially in the areas of mental health, obesity, chronic disease, and vaccinations. I look forward to working with him to serve the health and wellness needs of the American people."" Dr. Murthy's parents are originally from Karnataka, India. He was born in Huddersfield, England and the family relocated to Miami, Florida when he was three years old. Dr. Murthy attended college at Harvard University, where he graduated magna cum laude in three years with a bachelor's degree in Biochemical Sciences. He received an MD from the Yale School of Medicine and an MBA in Health Care Management from the Yale School of Management. He is currently a practicing physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, as well as the Hospitalist Attending Physician and Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-headlines/senate-confirms-new-us-surgeon-general_,Senate Confirms New U.S. Surgeon General,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Monday, December 15, 2014 Senate Confirms New U.S. Surgeon General WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Hirono voted to confirm Dr. Vivek Murthy as the next U.S. Surgeon General, who was approved by a vote of 51-43. In a statement released by the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, Hirono praised Dr. Murthy’s innovation, dedication to keeping Americans healthy and proclivity for taking action. Dr. Murthy and Hirono met earlier in December.  An attending physician at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and an instructor at Harvard Medical School, at the meeting Dr. Murthy shared his current efforts to utilize the latest cloud-based technologies to improve the quality and efficiency of clinical trials that will bring new medicines to patients faster and more safely. Dr. Murthy also discussed the importance of motivating Americans to think about their priorities when it comes to making healthy life choices.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/us-senate-approves-11-trillion-government-funding-bill,US Senate Approves $1.1 Trillion Government Funding Bill,2014-12-13,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"US Senate Approves $1.1 Trillion Government Funding Bill But Hirono of Hawaii joins Democrats Warren and Levin as well as Republicans Cruz, Rubio and Paul in voting ""no."" By:  Chad Blair Saturday, December 13, 2014 The federal government will remain funded through next September, assuming President Barack Obama signs the $1.1 trillion spending bill approved by the U.S. Senate late Saturday evening in Washington, D.C. The vote was 56-40, which came after surviving a lopsided cloture vote that cut off debate on the legislation. Obama has indicated he will sign the measure, despite strong objections from members of his own party. The same measure was approved by the U.S. House of Representatives Thursday in a 219-206 vote that saw Hawaii’s two representatives, Colleen Hanabusa and Tulsi Gabbard, voting “no” because of objections regarding the bill’s roll back of regulations on Wall Street and the allowing of increased contributions to political parties. In the Senate, Hawaii’s senators split, with Brian Schatz voting for the measure and Mazie Hirono voting against it. In voting “no,” Hirono cited the same objections as her Hawaii House colleagues. She was among the 22 Democrats who voted against the measure, including Elizabeth Warren (of Massachusetts), Carl Levin (Michigan) and Al Franken (Minnesota). “The price of funding government programs for only one year should not be permanent changes to laws that will have lasting impacts on working families for years to come and that is why I could not in good conscience support this bill,” Hirono said in a statement after the vote. “I respect the right of every Senator to vote his or her conscience on every difficult vote. And this was a difficult vote.” Hirono added, “Despite the differences reflected in this vote, my hope is that we will go forward to do our work so that the outcomes will reflect clearly that we are on the side of working, everyday American people.” Like Hirono, Republicans Ted Cruz (Texas), Rand Paul (Kentucky) and Marco Rubio (Florida) also opposed the funding bill. Cruz, Rubio and Paul are among the GOP candidates who have expressed strong interest in running for president in 2016. Warren, meanwhile, is the darling of left-leaning Democrats that want her to run for president, too, even though Hillary Clinton is widely viewed as the frontrunner. Warren has thus far said she is not interested. Also voting against the bill was Bernie Sanders of Vermont, an independent who caucuses with Democrats and who is also weighing a presidential bid. As the Hill Reports about the dramatic vote, “The debate exposed divisions within the Democratic and Republican caucuses on both sides of the Capitol and sets the stage what could be a year of internecine squabbling in 2015.” Hirono stood by her “no” vote. “Important government programs that support our families and communities should not be held hostage to get permanent changes to laws that undermine the middle class. This bill revises pension laws in a way that breaks a longstanding commitment to retirees and working people,” she said in a press release. “In Hawaii this change could impact some 37,000 union members and their families. This bill waters down hard-fought limits on Wall Street recklessness and lifts the ceiling for political contributions to parties at a time when the flood of big money in our democracy is a matter of national outrage.” Read the entire piece at: http://www.civilbeat.com/2014/12/us-senate-approves-1-1-trillion-government-funding-bill/.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-stands-up-for-middle-class-families,SENATOR HIRONO STANDS UP FOR MIDDLE CLASS FAMILIES,2014-12-13,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO STANDS UP FOR MIDDLE CLASS FAMILIES Votes against Wall Street bailouts and lifting of political contribution limits Saturday, December 13, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Tonight the Senate voted on a 1,600 page bill that funds nearly every policy area and government program through September 30, 2015. Senator Mazie K. Hirono joined a number of her colleagues in voting against this proposal, which passed on a vote of 56 to 40. Senator Hirono joined 39 of her colleagues including Senators Carl Levin (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jon Tester (D-MT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Al Franken (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) in voting against the bill. “The price of funding government programs for only one year should not be permanent changes to laws that will have lasting impacts on working families for years to come and that is why I could not in good conscience support this bill,” said Senator Hirono. “I respect the right of every Senator to vote his or her conscience on every difficult vote. And this was a difficult vote. Despite the differences reflected in this vote, my hope is that we will go forward to do our work so that the outcomes will reflect clearly that we are on the side of working, everyday American people.” “Important government programs that support our families and communities should not be held hostage to get permanent changes to laws that undermine the middle class. This bill revises pension laws in a way that breaks a longstanding commitment to retirees and working people,” said Senator Hirono. “In Hawaii this change could impact thousands of union members and their families. This bill waters down hard-fought limits on Wall Street recklessness and lifts the ceiling for political contributions to parties at a time when the flood of big money in our democracy is a matter of national outrage.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/civil-beat-senator-hirono-to-serve-on-intelligence-committee,Senator Hirono to Serve on Intelligence Committee,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Hirono to Serve on Intelligence Committee The U.S. Senate Democratic leadership slate is announced for the new GOP-controlled chamber By:  Chad Blair Friday, December 12, 2014 The U.S. Congress may soon be controlled by Republicans, but Hawaii’s Democrats in the Senate have secured important committee assignments that begin early next year. Brian Schatz will serve on the Senate Committee on Appropriations while Mazie Hirono will serve on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Hirono will also continue serving on the Armed Services Committee and on Veterans’ Affairs. The Appropriations Committee writes the legislation that funds government departments, agencies and organizations and has responsibility for supplemental spending bills. The late Dan Inouye of Hawaii was a former chairman and often steered federal funds toward the islands. The Intelligence Committee, meanwhile, oversees the intelligence activities and programs of the U.S. government to make sure they comport with the U.S. Constitution and federal laws. Under Democrat Diane Feinstein of California, the committee is in the news this week with its controversial report regarding the CIA and torture. The Armed Services Committee has legislative oversight of the nation’s military, including the Department of Defense. Given Hawaii’s geopolitical strategic position in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and in proximity to Asia, the committee’s role is critical. Veterans’ Affairs has also had a high profile lately, due to the backlog in addressing the health needs of vets. Hawaii has a large veteran population. The appointments are subject to a full vote by the Senate scheduled for early January. ... Hirono, meanwhile, in addition to gaining the plum assignment on the Intelligence Committee and staying on Armed Services, will also serve on the Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources and the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship in the new Congress. Hirono, however, will relinquish her position on Senate Judiciary — another high-profile panel that is often in the news. “I look forward to building on our work to support our service members, veterans and their families,” Hirono said in a press release Friday. “Maintaining a strong military presence in Hawaii will continue to be critical to our national security and economy in state, while also serving as a key component to our nation’s rebalance to the Asia-Pacific.” Hirono added, “My new committee assignments are well-balanced and involve top priorities for Hawaii, including shaping policies that secure clean energy, protection of the environment and boosting small business opportunities that create jobs that will help us achieve a sustainable future for Hawaii.” Committee assignments for the U.S. House have not yet been announced. Tulsi Gabbard and Mark Takai, who will replace Colleen Hanabusa come January, represent Hawaii. Both are military veterans who have made veterans’ issues legislative priorities. Read the entire piece at: http://www.civilbeat.com/2014/12/schatz-to-serve-on-appropriations-hirono-on-intelligence/.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-headlines/senator-hirono-and-the-full-senate-vote-to-confirm-admiral-harris-to-us-pacom-commander-post,Senator Hirono and the Full Senate Vote to Confirm Admiral Harris to U.S. PACOM Commander Post,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Friday, December 12, 2014 Senator Hirono and the Full Senate Vote to Confirm Admiral Harris to U.S. PACOM Commander Post WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Hirono offers congratulations to Admiral Harry Harris, Jr. after the full Senate confirmed the Admiral to the post of Commander of the United States Pacific Command (PACOM). Admiral Harris serves as the highest-ranking Japanese-American naval officer, and is now the first to hold the position of U.S. PACOM Commander. With Admiral Harris, Senator Hirono will work towards strengthening our national security with a continued emphasis on our nation’s strategic rebalance to the Pacific.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-secures-key-measures-for-hawaii-in-defense-authorization-,SENATOR HIRONO SECURES KEY MEASURES FOR HAWAII IN DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO SECURES KEY MEASURES FOR HAWAII IN DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION Passage of Defense Authorization bill includes provisions that support the rebalance to Asia-Pacific region, funds military construction, promotes the well-being of service members and their families, and energy research and development Friday, December 12, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono, a member of the Senate Armed Services and the Veterans’ Affairs committees, today voted to pass the Fiscal Year 2015 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The defense bill includes important provisions for Hawaii including providing for construction and upgrades to military facilities, supporting the health and education of our troops and their families, enhancing our national security focus on the Asia-Pacific, supporting Hawaii’s military-connected public schools, focusing on improving military readiness and saving taxpayer dollars through energy efficiency. “The national defense authorization bill includes smart, meaningful investments for our military personnel serving in Hawaii and around the globe. The bill includes many important provisions which authorize Department of Defense activities and provide for the well-being of our service members and their families,” said Senator Hirono. “I worked to strengthen and protect our commissaries and to ensure the continued modernization of our military facilities to keep our armed services at the highest levels of readiness.” The measure will now be sent to the White House for the President’s signature. Additional provisions in the NDAA include: Improving Readiness, Saving Taxpayer Dollars through Improved Energy Efficiency In order to have a more sustainable and cost-efficient military, an increased investment in renewable energy is paramount. Senator Hirono worked with Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) to include a bipartisan amendment that gives the Department of Defense (DOD) flexibility to improve energy efficiency and use green building techniques for their infrastructure. Additionally, the bill includes a Hirono amendment that will help reduce fuel costs across all major DOD vehicle and weapon purchases. Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security StudiesSenator Hirono included a provision that would designate the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies in Honolulu, Hawaii, as the ""Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies."" Since opening on September 4, 1995, the Center has worked to cultivate strong bilateral ties between the U.S. Pacific Command and its counterparts in other nations across the Asia-Pacific. Senator Inouye’s work to expand the Center greatly contributed to its growth as an academic institution addressing regional and global security issues. Increased Focus on the Military Rebalance to the Asia-Pacific RegionA Hirono provision will bring to bear an independent assessment of the strategy, capabilities and future needs within the Asia-Pacific theatre. Senator Hirono also included a provision that halts an Air Force plan to move four KC-135 refueling tankers from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to California pending the results of a cost-benefit analysis. Protected and Strengthened Commissary Benefits As a member of the Subcommittee on Personnel, Senator Hirono fought to preserve commissary prices, which are a valuable benefit to many of our servicemembers, military families and military retirees. She also supports a provision requiring the Defense Department to consult with retail grocery experts to identify potential savings in the commissary system and allowing commissaries to purchase and sell generic drugs. More Provisions to Help Servicemembers as they Transition to Civilian Life Senator Hirono worked to include updates to DOD’s Transition Assistance Program. Servicemembers will have updated, accurate information on how to select a college, utilize their GI Bill benefit, avoid scams or costly private loans and file complaints online. Senator Hirono worked on the amendment with Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Tom Carper (D-DE), who are also champions of improving educational benefits and services for current and former servicemembers. Another provision requires the DOD to conduct a study on the impact of Tricare Prime Service Area reductions on beneficiary access to care. Increased Support for Military Families with Keiki in Hawaii’s Public Schools Senator Hirono fought to continue funding for the Hawaii Department of Education (HDOE) and other school districts with military-connected children through federal Impact Aid. Senator Hirono included provisions from the Local Taxpayer Relief Act, a bill she first introduced as a member of the U.S. House, and reintroduced in 2013 with Republican co-lead Senator John Thune (R-SD). Required Consultations with Chief of the National Guard Bureau on Personnel HiringThe NDAA includes Senator Hirono’s provision to require certain general officers assigned to the National Guard Bureau be selected by the service Secretary only after consultations with the Chief of the National Guard Bureau. Previously, officers could be assigned to senior positions within the National Guard Bureau without consultation with the Chief.  The NDAA also includes support for the following investments in Hawaii: U.S. Army Pacific Command: $311 million to complete construction of the U.S. Army Pacific’s Command and Control Facility. Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam: $62.6 million for military construction and facilities upgrades. Marine Corps Base Hawaii: $53.4 million for military construction and facilities upgrades and $8.5 million for energy conservation projects. DOD Impact Aid assistance: $25 million nationally for Impact Aid assistance to school districts for educating military-dependent children and $5 million for Impact Aid assistance for children with disabilities. Maui Space Surveillance System: $14 million for the Maui Space Surveillance System which is a telescope important to national defense activities. STARBASE Program: $25 million nationwide for supporting Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education by exposing youth to technological environments on military bases and installations.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-to-expand-senate-reach-next-year-serving-on-5-committees-covering-broad-range-of-hawaii-priorities,"SENATOR HIRONO TO EXPAND SENATE REACH NEXT YEAR, SERVING ON 5 COMMITTEES COVERING BROAD RANGE OF HAWAII PRIORITIES",2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO TO EXPAND SENATE REACH NEXT YEAR, SERVING ON 5 COMMITTEES COVERING BROAD RANGE OF HAWAII PRIORITIES Hirono to Sit on Senate Committees on Armed Services, Veterans’ Affairs, Energy and Natural Resources, Small Business and Entrepreneurship and Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Friday, December 12, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono today announced she will continue her work on the Senate Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs during the 114th Congress. In addition, Senator Hirono has been assigned to three new committees; the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. “I look forward to building on our work to support our servicemembers, veterans and their families,” said Senator Hirono. ""Maintaining a strong military presence in Hawaii will continue to be critical to our national security and economy in state, while also serving as a key component to our nation’s rebalance to the Asia-Pacific.” “My new committee assignments are well-balanced and involve top priorities for Hawaii, including shaping policies that secure clean energy, protection of the environment and boosting small business opportunities that create jobs that will help us achieve a sustainable future for Hawaii.” Senate committee assignments will be made official in January 2015.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-named-to-key-post-on-senate-appropriations-committee,Schatz Named to Key Post on Senate Appropriations Committee,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz Named to Key Post on Senate Appropriations Committee Will Serve on a Total of Five Committees in the Senate Friday, December 12, 2014 Washington, D.C. – United States Senate Democratic leadership announced the selection of U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) to serve on the key Senate Committee on Appropriations. The appointment is an especially important one.  Prescribed in the U.S. Constitution, the Committee writes the legislation that allocates funds to government departments, agencies and organizations.  The Committee also has responsibility for supplemental spending bills as may be needed during the fiscal year. “This is an important job because the Committee makes appropriations that support our national priorities, and because I will be in a position to ensure that the needs of Hawai‘i are strongly represented at a critical juncture,” stated Senator Schatz.  “It is an honor and I look forward to working with all Committee members as we move forward.” “The Appropriations post is a most significant one for our State and Country,” stated Retired Admiral Thomas Fargo, former Commander of the United States Pacific Command.  “This appointment so early in his career speaks to the fact that Senator Schatz has earned the respect of his Senate colleagues and is increasingly effective in Washington.” And the Senator will also retain his seats as a member on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.  In addition, Senate Democratic leadership selected Senator Schatz to serve as one of three Democrats on the Senate Select Committee on Ethics.  The Ethics Committee investigates allegations, and recommends disciplinary action, in cases of improper conduct by senators including violations of law or Senate rules and regulations. Appointments to these four committees are subject to a full vote by the Senate that is scheduled to occur in early January 2015. Senate Democrats have also named Senator Schatz to the Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee, a Democratic leadership committee.  The group makes recommendations on committee chairmanships and committee assignments to the Democratic caucus.  It also brings together senators, community leaders, policy experts, businesses and intergovernmental organizations to help develop policies to strengthen the economy and support families, workers and businesses. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-votes-against-bailing-out-wall-street-banks,VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Votes Against Bailing Out Wall Street Banks,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Last-minute provision bailing out WallStreet banks snuck into bill with no debate, no vote Washington, DC Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today voted against the FY 2015 omnibus spending bill, citingheropposition to last-minute policy riders that were snuck into the legislationto once again serve Wall Street and the big banks at the expense of the American taxpayer. The bill passed by a vote of 219-206 and funds thefederalgovernment through September 30, 2015. In explaining her vote against the legislation, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard said,""There are two kinds of people serving in Congressthose who are here to serve the interests of the American people, and those who are here to serve the interests of the Big Banks and Wall Street speculators. The big banks that forced the American people to bail them out in 2008 are even bigger today. This bill sets us up to bailthe big banksout again, and itspassage brings us closer to the precipice of an economic disaster thatwouldmake the 2008 meltdown seem like a picnic. Congresswoman Gabbard also objected to a provision snuck into the spending bill that would dramatically increase the amount of money contributors can give to a political party. I'm opposed to a last-minute change to thislegislation,whichincreasesfrom $97,200 to $777,600the amount of money a single donor can giveannuallyto national political party committees, said Congresswoman Gabbard.This provision will only serve to increase partisan politicsand give political parties more power over political candidates. ""Additionally,I cannot support spending up to$500 millionin American tax dollars to train and arm so-calledmoderate'Syrian rebelswhen in reality what is being funded is a continuation of the flawed U.S. policyof regime change, undeclared war, and nation-buildingin the Middle East. This funding perpetuates a U.S.foreign policythathas failed repeatedly and has contributed to the chaos and increased empowerment of Islamic extremists in the region. The congresswoman said she is very disappointedto see this bill pass today because the American people deserve better. They deserve a government that listens to them and serves them, not special interests or Wall Street banks."" Congresswoman Gabbard spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives today to highlight her concerns and opposition to the omnibus spending bill as written.Video of the speech is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-announces-2-million-us-doe-grant-hawai-i-preschools,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Announces $2 Million U.S. DOE Grant for Hawaii Preschools,2014-12-10,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today announced that Hawaii has been selected to receive a Preschool Development Grant from the U.S. Department of Education for $2,074,059 to support communities in providing high-quality preschool programs. The grant will advance the Hawaii Department of Education's efforts over the next four years by setting up preschool programs in public charter schools, expanding access to large populations of Native Hawaiian families and high-need communities on Hawaii Island, and providing culturally-responsive professional development and quality improvement activities for early education providers. I've had the privilege of visiting many of the preschools and Head Start programs across the state, and it's clear that investing in early education opportunities for our keiki will help to provide the opportunity for a bright future for them, their families, and Hawaii, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. This Preschool Development Grant will support the great work of Hawaii educators and expand early education opportunities for families who are most in need of assistance. Hawaii was one of nine states to be awarded a Preschool Development Grant. In October, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard joined Senators Schatz and Hirono and Representative Hanabusa in sending a delegation-wide letter of support to the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, urging the secretaries of each department to give strong consideration to Hawaii when awarding the funds. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-headlines/senator-hirono-chairs-senate-judiciary-committee-hearing-on-immigration-executive-order,Senator Hirono Chairs Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing on Immigration Executive Order,2014-12-10,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Wednesday, December 10, 2014 Senator Hirono Chairs Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing on Immigration Executive Order WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Hirono presided over a full Senate Judiciary Committee hearing titled “Keeping Families Together: The President’s Executive Action on Immigration and the Need to Pass Comprehensive Reform.” The hearing highlighted the impact of President Barack Obama’s Executive Order impact on families, businesses, and American workers. Immigration reform remains a priority for Senator Hirono as she was a key policy maker in the creation of the Senate’s comprehensive immigration reform package. Senators emphasized that the Senate immigration reform bill passed 531 days prior to the Judiciary Committee hearing and that the House has yet to present its own comprehensive immigration bill.  In conjunction with the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Senator Hirono held a press conference that discussed President Obama’s Executive Order that will bring five million undocumented immigrants in the U.S. out of the shadows, including an estimated 7,000 people in Hawaii.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-leads-judiciary-committee-hearing-on-immigration-executive-order-which-promotes-economic-growth-and-family-unity,"SENATOR HIRONO LEADS JUDICIARY COMMITTEE HEARING ON IMMIGRATION EXECUTIVE ORDER, WHICH PROMOTES ECONOMIC GROWTH AND FAMILY UNITY",2014-12-10,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO LEADS JUDICIARY COMMITTEE HEARING ON IMMIGRATION EXECUTIVE ORDER, WHICH PROMOTES ECONOMIC GROWTH AND FAMILY UNITY Immigrant Policy Maker Utilizes Her Personal Family Story to Push for Congressional Action Wednesday, December 10, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono today presided over a full Senate Judiciary Committee hearing examining President Obama’s executive order that will bring 5 million undocumented people in our country out of the shadows, including an estimated 7,000 individuals in Hawaii. The committee hearing highlighted the executive order’s impact on families, businesses, and American workers. “This is not just some abstract discussion about legal theory. It is about real people and real families. It is about taking concrete steps toward making our families and our economy stronger,” said Senator Hirono. “It is about who we are as a country.” As an immigrant who came to America as a small child with her family, Senator Hirono drew on her own experiences and shared her unique perspective at the hearing. “My story is the story of millions. My mother brought me to this country when I was a young girl. While we had very little as immigrants, mom had a dream to provide a better life for our family. Many of these families come to the U.S. to pursue similar dreams, perhaps starting their own business or working to provide for their family in a safe community. Regardless of education or background or financial means, immigrants do best with their families around them,” said Senator Hirono. “Family is the cornerstone of our immigration system and the President’s commonsense plan helps keep families together.” Please click here to watch Senator Hirono’s opening statement. The President’s executive order will tighten border security, strengthen enforcement, and focus taxpayer dollars on getting violent criminals off our streets—not on deporting families. The action will help drive economic growth, cut the deficit, and support American businesses and workers. Individuals who qualify to stay in the U.S. will be required to pass tough background checks and pay taxes. There is well-established legal groundwork and historical precedent for President Obama’s action: every president since President Eisenhower has used the authority of his office to act on immigration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-votes-to-approve-harris-for-pacom-commander-in-committee-urges-swift-action-by-the-full-senate,"SENATOR HIRONO VOTES TO APPROVE HARRIS FOR PACOM COMMANDER IN COMMITTEE, URGES SWIFT ACTION BY THE FULL SENATE",2014-12-09,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO VOTES TO APPROVE HARRIS FOR PACOM COMMANDER IN COMMITTEE, URGES SWIFT ACTION BY THE FULL SENATE Hawaii-Based U.S. Pacific Command Critical To Military Readiness, National Security Tuesday, December 9, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Senate Armed Services Committee voted to advance the nomination of Admiral Harry B. Harris, Jr. to the post of Commander of the United States Pacific Command. Senator Mazie K. Hirono voted in favor of Admiral Harris’s nomination, which now goes to the full Senate. “During my conversations with Admiral Harris, we both agreed on the importance of our country’s strategic rebalance to the Pacific and the vital role Hawaii plays in our national security,” said Senator Hirono. “Admiral Harris has led with distinction throughout his military career. I am confident in his ability to lead our armed forces in the Pacific and look forward to continue working with him upon his confirmation by the full Senate.” Admiral Harry Harris is the highest-ranking Japanese-American naval officer and the first to attain the rank of a four-star flag officer. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Harris has served in every geographic combatant command and was assigned in 2011 as the assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Since October 2013, Harris has served as Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. Headquartered at Camp H.M. Smith in Hawaii, the U.S. Pacific Command is the oldest and largest of the United States' unified commands. The commander of U.S. Pacific Command reports to the President of the United States through the Secretary of Defense and is supported by multiple component and sub-unified commands including: U.S. Forces Korea, U.S. Forces Japan, U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. Marine Forces Pacific, U.S. Pacific Air Forces and U.S. Army Pacific.                                Office of Senator Mazie K. Hirono archive",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-boxer-gillibrand-hirono-call-for-extension-on-home-loan-guarantees-for-veterans-in-high-cost-of-living-areas,"Schatz, Boxer, Gillibrand, Hirono Call for Extension on Home Loan Guarantees for Veterans in High Cost of Living Areas",2014-12-08,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz, Boxer, Gillibrand, Hirono Call for Extension on Home Loan Guarantees for Veterans in High Cost of Living Areas Monday, December 8, 2014 Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), and Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawai‘i) have written Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) and Ranking Member Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) requesting an extension to a provision that allows the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to increase the maximum home loan guaranty amount for veterans in high cost of living areas.  A current provision enacted by Congress in 2008 gave the VA the authority to increase its maximum guaranty amount, making it easier for veterans in high cost of living areas to fulfill their dreams of homeownership.  It is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2014. “We cannot ask the men and women who have honorably served in our Armed Forces, and their families who have stood with them, to shoulder more of the burden of balancing the budget on top of the sacrifices they have already made in their service to the nation,” the Senators wrote.  “We urge members of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees to take action to extend this provision in law through December 31, 2015.” The full text of letter follows: Dear Chairwoman Mikulski and Ranking Member Shelby,             We are writing on behalf of the veterans who will be affected on December 31, 2014, if the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) existing authority to increase the maximum guaranty amount on loans for homes in high cost of living areas expires.             For years, the VA Loan Guaranty Program has helped America’s veterans fulfill their dreams of home ownership.  Under current law, the VA is authorized to act as a mortgage insurance program through which eligible veterans can enter into mortgages with private lenders, with the VA guaranteeing that it will pay lenders a portion of losses that may be suffered as a result of a borrower’s default.  In most cases, the VA guaranty covers at least 25 percent of the principal balance of a loan, helping veterans avoid making costly down payments that might otherwise prevent them from getting into a home.               Until enactment of legislation in 2008, the VA Loan Guaranty Program did not cover homes in high cost of living areas where the prices exceeded the Freddie Mac conforming loan limit of $417,000 (as determined by section 305(a)(2) of the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act).  Congress took action, giving the VA the authority to consider the 25 percent maximum guaranty amount for a loan as equal to the higher of the Freddie Mac conforming loan limit, or 125 percent of the area median home price, but no higher than 175 percent of the limit determined under the Freddie Mac statute, making it easier for veterans to purchase homes in high cost of living areas without having to make a down payment.             Despite Congress’s well-intentioned efforts to ensure that veterans are able to fulfill their dreams of home ownership, the authority allowing the VA to increase the maximum guaranty amount for home loans in high cost of living areas will expire on December 31, 2014, leaving many veterans with dreams of buying a home in limbo.              We urge members of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees to take action to extend this provision in law through December 31, 2015.  We recognize the hard choices that you must make as you evaluate tradeoffs between extending this $24 million authority and other budgetary priorities.  But we cannot ask the men and women who have honorably served in our Armed Forces, and their families who have stood with them, to shoulder more of the burden of balancing the budget on top of the sacrifices they have already made in their service to the nation.               Thank you for considering our request and for your continued support of the veterans and their families we all serve.                                                         Sincerely, BRIAN SCHATZ U.S. Senator                                        Barbara Boxer U.S. Senator                                                                            Kirsten Gillibrand U.S. Senator                                        Mazie K. Hirono U.S. Senator                       ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-heinrich-introduce-legislation-to-modernize-energy-infrastructure,"Schatz, Heinrich Introduce Legislation to Modernize Energy Infrastructure",2014-12-08,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz, Heinrich Introduce Legislation to Modernize Energy Infrastructure PREPARE Act Aims to Help States and Regions Build Cleaner, More Resilient Energy Systems Monday, December 8, 2014 Washington, DC – Today U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), members of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, introduced the Promoting Regional Energy Partnerships for Advancing Resilient Energy Systems Act (PREPARE Act), legislation that would help states modernize U.S. energy systems to make them cleaner, more efficient, cost-effective, reliable and resilient.  With an aging U.S. energy infrastructure in need of replacement and growing challenges to grid security, the PREPARE Act authorizes the U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) to enter into regional cooperative agreements with states to provide support and funding that will help states develop strategies and plans that address the unique energy needs of the region.  “In Hawai‘i, we have seen great success in developing an energy strategy that has increased clean energy production and cut electricity bills, saving customers $1.5 billion since 2009.  But we were only able to do this by working collaboratively with the Department of Energy and business and community leaders in the state,” Senator Schatz said.  “Our bill empowers the Energy Department to give states and regions the tools they need to modernize their energy infrastructure and build a cleaner, more resilient system.” “Our nation’s electric power industry is going through substantial changes. This bill provides an opportunity for states to collaborate on regional approaches for cleaner power generation and transmission – which are critical to reducing carbon pollution and keeping prices low for consumers,” said Senator Heinrich.  “Our state has a unique role to play in coordinating and siting significant new generation and transmission infrastructure that will be essential for growing our economy.  Additionally, we are well poised to capitalize on a diversified, but rapidly transforming energy sector, and we stand to benefit from this kind of regional collaboration.” The PREPARE Act is modeled off of the successful Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initiative — a federal-state-business-NGO partnership.  Introduced in 2008, the partnership provided DoE assistance to the state, which helped convene cross-sectoral working groups and coordinate federal technical assistance.  Since its implementation, energy from renewable sources has risen to 18% in Hawai‘i, saving an estimated 794 GWh of electricity and $1.5 billion on electricity bills since 2009.  Hawai‘i now ranks 10th in the nation in clean energy jobs.  The PREPARE Act also builds upon the successful State Energy Program administered by DoE.  The program provides funding and technical assistance to State Energy Offices to prepare state energy plans and implement clean energy and energy efficiency programs. Since its creation in 1996, it has delivered energy cost savings of $256 million per year, and every $1 of federal funds under the program has leveraged $10.71 in private and state funds and returned $7.22 in energy cost savings.  From energy efficiency rules in Mississippi expected to save customers $2.3 billion in energy bills by 2034, to a business launch program for innovative energy enterprises in New Hampshire, to a large solar array program to help businesses cut energy costs in Tennessee, it has supported states with a diversity of clean energy programs.  PREPARE would build on that with a regional approach and will offer assistance on planning that encompasses far more than just clean energy programs. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-73rd-anniversary-of-the-attack-on-pearl-harbor,Schatz Statement on 73rd Anniversary of the Attack on Pearl Harbor,2014-12-07,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz Statement on 73rd Anniversary of the Attack on Pearl Harbor Sunday, December 7, 2014 Honolulu, HI —Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) issued the following statement commemorating the 73rd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor: “Today, we remember the thousands who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor and we honor our service members in Hawai‘i who made the ultimate sacrifice. Seventy-three years later, we remain grateful to the men and women who fought with bravery to protect the daily liberties all Americans enjoy, and we keep our current service members and their families in our hearts and minds.” Senator Schatz will be attending the 73rd Pearl Harbor Day Commemoration Ceremony at the Pearl Harbor Visitor's Center this morning beginning at 7:15 a.m.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-super-typhoon-hagupit,Schatz Statement on Super Typhoon Hagupit,2014-12-05,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz Statement on Super Typhoon Hagupit Typhoon Expected to Make Landfall on the Philippines this Weekend Friday, December 5, 2014 Honolulu, HI – As Super Typhoon Hagupit, also named Ruby, threatens to make landfall in the Philippines, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) encourages all of Hawai‘i to extend support and help during a time of need: “This impending typhoon that is expected to make landfall this weekend could potentially cause devastating losses for the Philippines. Many people are still recovering from the tragedy left by Typhoon Haiyan that wreaked havoc just 18 months ago. My prayers go out to the people of the Philippines as they prepare for the storm and I encourage all of us in Hawai‘i to extend the same aloha to our families and friends in the Philippines as we’ve done in the past. I will work just as I have always done to be sure that if necessary, the people of the Philippines receive the emergency support they need to assist in any recovery efforts.” Helpful information can be accessed at the links below: Emergency Hotlines Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/news/press-releases/15-media-center/press-releases/363-rep-tulsi-gabbard-joins-bipartisan-call-for-debate-on-troubling-syria-provisions-buried-in-defense-authorization-bill,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Joins Bipartisan Call for Debate on Troubling Syria Provisions Buried in Defense Authorization Bill,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"‘Train and equip’ authority would be extended for two years without serious Congressional debate or standalone vote Washington, DC – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) has joined a group of bipartisan colleagues to call attention to significant policy provisions that were inserted into the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015 (NDAA) without a vote or serious debate.  The annual defense bill will come to the House floor for approval today, and includes a two-year extension of the authority to equip and train so-called moderate Syrian rebels.   “It is absolutely unacceptable to include an open-ended policy of arming and training so-called ‘moderate’ Syrian rebels in the NDAA without any serious public debate or a standalone vote,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a twice-deployed veteran who has repeatedly criticized the strategy to arm Syrian rebels. “Giving weapons and training to these rebels whose stated purpose is to overthrow President Assad will have lengthy and costly consequences because it continues the broken policy of overthrowing regimes and nation-building that has cost so many precious lives and our nation’s treasure, drawing us into another country’s civil war.  I voted against this provision on September 17, when the Administration promised Congress would be able to reassess this strategy in December 2014.  To the contrary, Congress has had no opportunity to discuss, debate, or vote on this standalone question.  There is no reason to bury this issue in a major must-pass annual defense bill that includes critical provisions for our military’s readiness and our troops’ well-being.  We must have a standalone vote so the American people’s voice can be heard. “Congress cannot continue to offer tacit support for a strategy that does not support achieving our mission of destroying ISIL and the Islamic extremists who seek to harm us.  By continuing to funnel weapons to rebels in Syria, whose vetting and loyalties are questionable and untested, we face the likely outcome of our weapons falling into the hands of our enemies yet again, to be used against Americans and innocent civilians.” Congresswoman Gabbard joined a bipartisan letter led by Congressman Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) to Speaker John Boehner reiterating these concerns about the Syria train and equip provisions inserted into the NDAA agreement.   Full text of the bipartisan letter is available below:   December 3, 2014 Speaker John Boehner Office of the Speaker H-232, US Capitol Washington, DC 20515   Dear Mr. Speaker:   The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) currently scheduled to come to the floor tomorrow contains many major policy decisions affecting our country and our armed forces. We believe the Congress should have an opportunity to debate and consider amendments on questions of significant magnitude.   Specifically, the NDAA coming before the House provides a two-year authorization to deploy American troops to train and equip the so-called moderate Syrian rebels. The Congress should have the chance to hold a separate vote on that provision.  In September, a majority in Congress voted to temporarily authorize preparation for such a mission for a short period ending December 11th. The temporary authorization included robust provisions for Congressional oversight and mandated reporting requirements. No new funding was authorized at that time. The Administration has requested $500 million as part of this new authorization.  This NDAA provision is written so that – with the sole consent of the four defense committees – the amount could well exceed the requested $500 million.  Additionally, the movement of American forces on the ground in other countries of the region is a very consequential decision. A matter of that importance should not be tucked into a huge NDAA bill and shielded from a separate vote.              Given the importance of this decision to use American troops to train and equip so-called moderate Syrian rebels in places like Saudi Arabia, Congress has a duty to debate and vote separately on this question. We must not abdicate our responsibility to the American people and the men and women who serve in our military.   Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/press-releases/364-video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-votes-against-committing-u-s-to-war-in-syria,VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Votes Against Committing U.S. To War in Syria,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Train and equip provision buried in the bill, no opportunity for debate or standalone vote Washington, DC Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today voted against the House-Senate compromise for the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015 (NDAA), citing serious concerns about the inclusion of a provision to train and equip so-called moderate Syrian rebels for the next two years and the lack of a vote or debate on that provision. Yesterday, Congresswoman Gabbard joined a bipartisan amendment to remove this provision before the NDAA came to a vote on the House floor, and also joined a bipartisan letter to Speaker John Boehnercalling for debate and a standalone voteon the provision. Our troops, our country, and our communities deserve far better than the defense bill that passed today. The hidden provision in the amended HR 3979 to authorize training and arming of the so-called moderate Syrian rebels for the next two years, with no limits on how much money can be spent, has seriously polluted this critical legislation. Icould not in good conscience vote to support so-called moderate forces who often work hand-in-hand with al-Qaida and ISIS, and whose personnel and weapons often end up in the hands of those terrorists. Just a few days ago, the Associated Press reported, 'Notably, in the south, the rebels are working together with fighters from al-Qaida's Syria branch.'"" ""Furthermore, this bill continues thesamefailed policies of undeclared war, regime change, and nation building that have had us mired in the Middle East for over a decade. Because there was no standalone vote or debate allowed on this important provision,theAmerican people have been deprived of their right to make a decision aboutwhether or not we are going to war against Syria,said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a twice-deployed combat veteran and currentcaptain in the Hawaii Army National Guard. Congresswoman Gabbard spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives today to again highlight her concerns.Video of the speech is available here. In September 2014, Congresswoman Gabbard voted against an amendment to a funding bill that allowed for thetraining and equipping of Syrian rebels and latervoted againstthe underlying funding bill that included the amendment. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-joins-bipartisan-call-debate-troubling-syria-provisions-buried,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Joins Bipartisan Call for Debate on Troubling Syria Provisions Buried in Defense Authorization Bill,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Train and equip' authority would be extended for two years without serious Congressional debate or standalone vote Washington, DC Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) has joined a group of bipartisan colleagues to call attention to significant policy provisions that were inserted into the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015 (NDAA) without a vote or serious debate. The annual defense bill will come to the House floor for approval today, and includes a two-year extension of the authority to equip and train so-called moderate Syrian rebels. It is absolutely unacceptable to include an open-ended policy of arming and training so-called moderate' Syrian rebels in the NDAA without any serious public debate or a standalone vote, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a twice-deployed veteran who has repeatedly criticized the strategy to arm Syrian rebels. Giving weapons and training to these rebels whose stated purpose is to overthrow President Assad will have lengthy and costly consequences because it continues the broken policy of overthrowing regimes and nation-building that has cost so many precious lives and our nation's treasure, drawing us into another country's civil war. I voted against this provision on September 17, when the Administration promised Congress would be able to reassess this strategy in December 2014. To the contrary, Congress has had no opportunity to discuss, debate, or vote on this standalone question. There is no reason to bury this issue in a major must-pass annual defense bill that includes critical provisions for our military's readiness and our troops' well-being. We must have a standalone vote so the American people's voice can be heard. Congress cannot continue to offer tacit support for a strategy that does not support achieving our mission of destroying ISIL and the Islamic extremists who seek to harm us. By continuing to funnel weapons to rebels in Syria, whose vetting and loyalties are questionable and untested, we face the likely outcome of our weapons falling into the hands of our enemies yet again, to be used against Americans and innocent civilians. Congresswoman Gabbard joined a bipartisan letter led by Congressman Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) to Speaker John Boehner reiterating these concerns about the Syria train and equip provisions inserted into the NDAA agreement. Full text of the bipartisan letter is available below: December 3, 2014 Speaker John Boehner Office of the Speaker H-232, US Capitol Washington, DC 20515 Dear Mr. Speaker: The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) currently scheduled to come to the floor tomorrow contains many major policy decisions affecting our country and our armed forces. We believe the Congress should have an opportunity to debate and consider amendments on questions of significant magnitude. Specifically, the NDAA coming before the House provides a two-year authorization to deploy American troops to train and equip the so-called moderate Syrian rebels. The Congress should have the chance to hold a separate vote on that provision. In September, a majority in Congress voted to temporarily authorize preparation for such a mission for a short period ending December 11th. The temporary authorization included robust provisions for Congressional oversight and mandated reporting requirements. No new funding was authorized at that time. The Administration has requested $500 million as part of this new authorization. This NDAA provision is written so that with the sole consent of the four defense committees the amount could well exceed the requested $500 million. Additionally, the movement of American forces on the ground in other countries of the region is a very consequential decision. A matter of that importance should not be tucked into a huge NDAA bill and shielded from a separate vote. Given the importance of this decision to use American troops to train and equip so-called moderate Syrian rebels in places like Saudi Arabia, Congress has a duty to debate and vote separately on this question. We must not abdicate our responsibility to the American people and the men and women who serve in our military. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-votes-against-committing-us-war-syria,VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Votes Against Committing U.S. To War in Syria,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Train and equip' provision buried in the bill, no opportunity for debate or standalone vote Washington, DC Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today voted against the House-Senate compromise for the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015 (NDAA), citing serious concerns about the inclusion of a provision to train and equip so-called moderate Syrian rebels for the next two years and the lack of a vote or debate on that provision. Yesterday, Congresswoman Gabbard joined a bipartisan amendment to remove this provision before the NDAA came to a vote on the House floor, and also joined a bipartisan letter to Speaker John Boehnercalling for debate and a standalone voteon the provision. Our troops, our country, and our communities deserve far better than the defense bill that passed today. The hidden provision in the amended HR 3979 to authorize training and arming of the so-called moderate Syrian rebels for the next two years, with no limits on how much money can be spent, has seriously polluted this critical legislation. Icould not in good conscience vote to support so-called moderate forces who often work hand-in-hand with al-Qaida and ISIS, and whose personnel and weapons often end up in the hands of those terrorists. Just a few days ago, the Associated Press reported, 'Notably, in the south, the rebels are working together with fighters from al-Qaida's Syria branch.'"" ""Furthermore, this bill continues thesamefailed policies of undeclared war, regime change, and nation building that have had us mired in the Middle East for over a decade. Because there was no standalone vote or debate allowed on this important provision,theAmerican people have been deprived of their right to make a decision aboutwhether or not we are going to war against Syria,said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a twice-deployed combat veteran and currentcaptain in the Hawaii Army National Guard. Congresswoman Gabbard spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives today to again highlight her concerns.Video of the speech is available here. In September 2014, Congresswoman Gabbard voted against an amendment to a funding bill that allowed for thetraining and equipping of Syrian rebels and latervoted againstthe underlying funding bill that included the amendment. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-japanese-cultural-center-of-hawaii-and-the-japanese-american-citizens-league-urge-interior-secretary-to-support-park-service-protection-of-honouliuli,"Schatz, Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii, and the Japanese American Citizens League Urge Interior Secretary to Support Park Service Protection of Honouliuli",2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz, Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai‘i, and the Japanese American Citizens League Urge Interior Secretary to Support Park Service Protection of Honouliuli Interior Secretary Jewell, NPS Director Jarvis Receive Petitions Calling for National Park Service Recognition and Management Thursday, December 4, 2014 Washington, DC -- Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D- Hawai‘i) joined Carole Hayashino, the president and executive director of the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai‘i, and Jacce Mikulanec, president of the Honolulu Japanese American Citizens League, to present Interior Department Secretary Sally Jewell with petitions from more than 6,000 Americans requesting the inclusion of Honouliuli Internment Camp in the national park system. “The Honouliuli Internment Camp serves as a symbol of the constant need to protect the freedoms and rights of every American,” Senator Schatz said.  “I’m proud to stand with the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai‘i, the Japanese American Citizens League, and the thousands of Americans who support protection of this solemn site.  I will continue to work with Secretary Jewell and President Obama to finally give Honouliuli the historic recognition it deserves."" “The Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai'i greatly appreciates Senator Brian Schatz's leadership in supporting the preservation of Honouliuli and Hawai'i's internment sites,"" said Carole Hayashino, president and executive director of the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai'i. “The project has truly been a grassroots effort involving many organizations and individuals.  We are also grateful for the support of the other members of the Hawai‘i Congressional delegation, Senator Mazie Hirono, Congressmembers Colleen Hanabusa and Tulsi Gabbard as well as Congressmember-elect Mark Takai.” “JACL-Honolulu is pleased that Honouliuli Internment Camp is one step closer to receiving the recognition it deserves.  It is a symbol of what can happen when fear and prejudice dictate policy in our country - and why we must counter racism and prejudice in any form,” said Jacce Mikulanec, President of JACL-Honolulu Chapter.  “JACL has a long history of advocating for civil rights in Hawai‘i and nationally.  We are honored to be part of this pivotal visit and look forward to the work ahead.” Last year, Schatz met with National Park Service (NPS) Director Jonathan B. Jarvis to discuss the need to complete the special resource study, which was authorized by Congress in 2009 to review the site for potential inclusion in the national park system.  Following the meeting, Schatz sent Director Jarvis a letter to reiterate his support for the Honouliuli Internment Camp’s inclusion in the national park system. In September, 2013, Secretary Jewell visited Honouliuli Gulch where she saw remnants of the confinement site that historic documents indicate once held 175 buildings, 14 guard towers, and over 400 tents at the 160 acre camp. Jewell also met with local leaders and members of several Japanese cultural organizations who are part of the growing chorus of voices who want to see this difficult chapter in our nation’s history preserved and interpreted for the benefit of generations to come. In 1943, the Honouliuli Internment Camp was constructed on Oahu to intern citizens, resident aliens, and prisoners of war.  The camp held approximately 320 internees and became the largest prisoner-of-war camp in Hawai‘i.  Honouliuli was the largest and longest-used World War II internment camp in Hawai‘i. The NPS held a series of public meetings throughout Hawai‘i during May and June 2014 to present the draft study report, answer questions, and accept comments. Following receipt and review of public comments, a final report, including a course of action recommended by the Secretary of the Interior, will be transmitted to Congress. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205202623/http://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/under-schatz-questioning-nfl-admits-teams-should-be-more-accountable-for-domestic-violence-cases,Under Schatz Questioning NFL Admits Teams Should Be More Accountable For Domestic Violence Cases,2014-12-03,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Under Schatz Questioning NFL Admits Teams Should Be More Accountable For Domestic Violence Cases Schatz Sends Letter to NFL Following Hearing on Domestic Violence in Professional Sports Wednesday, December 3, 2014 Washington, DC – Today U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) sent a letter to National Football League (NFL) Commissioner Roger Goodell calling on the NFL to address domestic violence and the pervasive culture of avoiding long-term suspensions to quickly get players back on the field for financial motives. The letter follows a Senate Commerce Committee hearing where Senator Schatz questioned Troy Vincent, NFL executive vice president of football operations, about domestic violence in in the NFL.  Under questioning from Schatz, Mr. Vincent stated the NFL was reviewing options to hold teams more accountable for the culture of excusing domestic violence which include “the removal of draft picks.” “You should consider using all tools at your disposal to hold team owners accountable for promoting cultures that either explicitly or tacitly excuses domestic violence and sexual assault, including penalizing teams by taking away draft picks,” Schatz wrote to Goodell.  “I urge you to create accountability at all levels of the NFL, particularly among team owners, who have the most direct financial incentives to avoid long-term suspensions and quickly get players back on the field.  There must be a proactive effort to implement a culture of active opposition to these societal scourges, and to communicate that message both to those within the NFL and to its audience.” Video of Senator Schatz questioning Troy Vincent: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLFvhws7BAE&feature=youtu.be&t=3m11s Full text of letter is as follows: December 3, 2014Roger GoodellCommissionerNational Football League1201 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Suite 645Washington, D.C. 20004 Dear Commissioner Goodell, I remain deeply concerned by the National Football League’s (NFL) lack of aggressiveness in implementing consistent disciplinary policies regarding domestic violence and sexual assault by league and team employees.  I appreciate Mr. Vincent’s testimony before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on December 2nd, 2014, but his and his fellow witnesses’ words must be matched with action. I encourage you to hold the NFL to the commitments that Mr. Vincent made and proactively address the concerns raised at the hearing.  You should consider using all tools at your disposal to hold team owners accountable for promoting cultures that either explicitly or tacitly excuses domestic violence and sexual assault, including penalizing teams by taking away draft picks.  As you continue the process of reevaluating and improving your disciplinary policies related to cases of domestic abuse and sexual assault I urge you to create accountability at all levels of the NFL, particularly among team owners, who have the most direct financial incentives to avoid long-term suspensions and quickly get players back on the field.   At the December 2nd hearing, Mr. Vincent noted that an NFL owners’ meeting in the coming weeks will begin to consider systems of accountability for team owners, staff, and even local law enforcement who work for teams when off duty.  One possible penalty that Mr. Vincent mentioned was the removal of draft picks for teams that do not proactively move to both prevent and punish domestic violence and sexual assaults committed by their employees.  The NFL also committed to providing critical funding to domestic violence support groups that have been flooded with requests for help in the wake of the Ray Rice video. I hope you will keep that option and other points of leverage on the table to drive home the point to team owners that the NFL is serious about accountability. As you work to remove any incentive that discourage the reporting of assaults and encourage lax punishment, I also urge you to work diligently to change the culture of your league and your teams from the board room to the locker room.  In an industry that actively styles itself as far more than a business, one that seeks to create and promote role models for youth, there can be zero tolerance for misogyny or violence. Indeed, there must be a proactive effort to implement a culture of active opposition to these societal scourges, and to communicate that message both to those within the NFL and to its audience. Sincerely, Brian SchatzUnited States Senator ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-statement-on-the-announcement-by-hawaiian-electric-industries-and-nextera-energy-to-combine,SENATOR HIRONO STATEMENT ON THE ANNOUNCEMENT BY HAWAIIAN ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES AND NEXTERA ENERGY TO COMBINE,2014-12-03,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO STATEMENT ON THE ANNOUNCEMENT BY HAWAIIAN ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES AND NEXTERA ENERGY TO COMBINE Wednesday, December 3, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono today released the following statement on the announcement by Hawaiian Electric Industries and NextEra Energy. “Today’s announcement is profound and historic for Hawaii. Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (HEI) is well established in this community and the decision to combine with NextEra Energy, Inc. and spin off ASB Hawaii deserves careful scrutiny on behalf of Hawaii consumers and residents. I look forward to meeting with HEI and NextEra leaders to hear how Hawaii can lead in clean energy and protect the interests of the customer.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/video-gabbard-backed-bill-reauthorize-housing-assistance-native-hawaiians-passes,VIDEO: Gabbard-Backed Bill to Reauthorize Housing Assistance for Native Hawaiians Passes House Unanimously,2014-12-02,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today praised unanimous passage of the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Reauthorization Act of 2014 (H.R. 4329). The bill, also called NAHASDA, seeks to empower Native communities by assisting low-income families with affordable housing. Over 1,400 low-income families in Hawaii have benefited from these services and, in many cases, homeownership would not have been possible given the $640,000 median price of a single-family home on the island of Oahu, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard said in a speech to the House of Representatives today. One quick example of [NAHASDA's impact is] the Nakihei family on the island of Molokai. Brent and Amber Nakihei could not have afforded to remain in the neighborhood where Brent grew up. But they partnered with Molokai Habitat for Humanity and Hawaiian Homes to build a new three-bedroom, one-bath house in 2007. They invested 700 hours of work towards construction of that house, and their four children will now learn the responsibilities of homeownership from a young age and have a safe home to grow up in. Nationwide, passage of this legislation also would represent an important step toward removing roadblocks to economic success in Native communities, and would reaffirm the House's long-standing commitment to tribal sovereignty and self-determination. NAHASDA-supported activities include home construction, roads, sewers, street lighting, and utilities; direct loans to income-eligible families; subsidies for home rehabilitation; home repair training; financial counseling; and support for non-profits who provide self-help home construction. The Department of Hawaiian Homelands uses the NAHASDA funds to manage a trust established by Congress to support Native Hawaiians through homesteading. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-votes-to-confirm-hawaii-native-nani-coloretti-as-deputy-secretary-of-hud,SENATOR HIRONO VOTES TO CONFIRM HAWAII NATIVE NANI COLORETTI AS DEPUTY SECRETARY OF HUD,2014-12-02,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO VOTES TO CONFIRM HAWAII NATIVE NANI COLORETTI AS DEPUTY SECRETARY OF HUD Tuesday, December 2, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono today voted to confirm Nani A. Coloretti to the position of Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Senate confirmed Coloretti’s nomination by a vote of 68–28. “Congratulations to Nani on her confirmation as Deputy Secretary of HUD. We are proud that Nani, who grew up in Hawaii, is now the highest ranking Filipina-American in the administration,” said Senator Hirono. “HUD Secretary Castro told me that Nani’s role, as his right hand, is critical to implementing his vision which includes providing affordable housing and much needed infrastructure. Nani’s dedication to public service and her wealth of experience give me confidence in her ability to do an excellent job. I look forward to working with her.” A graduate of Iolani School who grew up in Kapahulu, Nani Coloretti previously served as the Assistant Secretary for Management at the U.S. Department of Treasury. She also held various high-ranking public service positions for the City and County of San Francisco. Coloretti served as a budget analyst for the Hawaii State Department of Public Safety from 1991-92. Nani Coloretti is a recipient of the National Public Service Award, the Public Policy and International Affairs Achievement Award, the Government Finance Officers Association Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, and the Federal 100 Award.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/senate-confirms-nani-coloretti-as-deputy-secretary-at-hud,Senate Confirms Nani Coloretti as Deputy Secretary at HUD,2014-12-02,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senate Confirms Nani Coloretti as Deputy Secretary at HUD Coloretti Becomes Highest Ranking Filipino-American in the Obama Administration Tuesday, December 2, 2014 Washington, DC — Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) announced Nani Coloretti’s Senate confirmation as Deputy Secretary at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, becoming the highest ranking Filipino-American in the Obama Administration.  Coloretti hails from Kapahulu and graduated from ‘Iolani School in 1987.  “The Department of Housing and Urban Development will gain an outstanding, well-qualified Deputy Secretary in Nani Coloretti,” Senator Schatz said.  “This is a proud moment for Hawai‘i and the Filipino-American community.  As a native of Kapahulu and the highest-ranking Filipino-American in the Obama Administration, Nani not only brings strong leadership experience, but the ability to inspire the next generation of Filipino-American leaders in Hawai‘i and across the country. I am proud to call Nani a friend, and I look forward to continuing to work with her in her new role.” Nani Coloretti’s most recent position was as Assistant Secretary for Management at the U.S. Department of Treasury, a position she has held since November 2012.  From 2009 to 2012, she served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Management and Budget at Treasury.  Prior to joining the Obama Administration, Coloretti worked in the San Francisco Mayor’s office from 2005 until 2009, most recently serving as Budget Director.  Previously, Coloretti served as the Director of Policy, Planning, and Budget for the San Francisco Department of Children, Youth, and Their Families from 1999 to 2005. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-headlines/thanksgiving-pitching-in-to-help-feed-those-in-need,Thanksgiving: Pitching In to Help Feed Those in Need,2014-11-27,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Thursday, November 27, 2014 Thanksgiving: Pitching In to Help Feed Those in Need OAHU - Senator Hirono started her Thanksgiving morning volunteering at Lanakila Pacific, helping to prepare some 600 meals for kupuna and those with special needs around Oahu. Lanakila Pacific is a non-profit organization made up of programs and social enterprises that help build independence for thousands of people living challenged lives across the state.  Senator Hirono helps pack and ship some 600 Thanksgiving meals as part of Lanakila Pacific’s annual tradition. Senator Hirono visited with veterans at the Oahu Veterans Center’s “Koa Ohana Thanksgiving.” Mo’s Heroes teamed up with the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals to host the annual event. The Oahu Veterans Center is a gathering place for veterans and stages the Thanksgiving luncheon as a way to say “mahalo” to veterans and their families for their service. It’s all smiles for veterans enjoying the annual “Koa Ohana Thanksgiving” program. More than a thousand athletes and coaches from around the state participated in the exciting two-day competition. Sporting venues included Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe. Events included a basketball tournament, to bowling competitions, to Bocce matches.  Senator Hirono talked with athletes and volunteers and presented medals to participants at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, where she helped reinforce the Special Olympic athlete oath: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-headlines/hawaii-congresswoman-patsy-t-mink-posthumously-awarded-presidential-medal-of-freedom,Hawaii Congresswoman Patsy T. Mink Posthumously Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom,2014-11-25,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Tuesday, November 25, 2014 Hawaii Congresswoman Patsy T. Mink Posthumously Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom WASHINGTON, D.C. - The late Congresswoman Patsy T. Mink was posthumously awarded one of the nation's highest civilian honors for her work as a relentless fighter for equality and fairness. Senator Hirono worked with the Hawaii State Bar Association in driving letters of support and recommendation to the White House. The Senator attended the ceremony where President Barack Obama honored 18 recipients, including Maui-born Mink. Congresswoman Mink, whom Senator Hirono calls a friend and inspiration, will forever be known as the co-author of Title IX, the landmark legislation that guarantees equal educational opportunities for women in this country. Senator Hirono’s view at Medal of Freedom Ceremony at the White House. Following the ceremony, Senator Hirono got a chance to catch up with Wendy Mink, the late Congresswoman’s daughter who accepted the prestigious award on behalf of her mother. Wendy Mink and Senator Hirono. President Obama also presented Medal of Freedom awards to the likes of singer Stevie Wonder, actress Meryl Streep and slain civil rights workers James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwener. The Presidential Medal of Freedom, along with the Congressional Gold Medal, is one of the highest civilian awards in the United States.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-urges-faa-to-address-safety-and-security-risks-of-drones,Schatz Urges FAA to Address Safety and Security Risks of Drones,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz Urges FAA to Address Safety and Security Risks of Drones Schatz Sends Letter Calling for Emergency Rulemaking Monday, November 24, 2014 Honolulu, HI – Following reports of small unmanned aircraft sightings near commercial airports in New York and Florida, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) sent a letter to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Michael Huerta calling for immediate action to address the safety concerns and potential security risks of small unmanned aircraft, also known as drones. “I recognize the opportunities with the expanded use of unmanned aircraft and the benefits of using them for search and rescue missions, disaster monitoring, and border surveillance, among others.  However, with small unmanned aircraft becoming more prevalent, the FAA must ensure that requirements are in place to protect the safety of our local communities,” Senator Schatz wrote.  “Risks posed by unmanned aircraft are too serious to ignore.  I strongly urge you to issue an emergency rule, such as an interim final rule, to ensure the safety of our communities.” The full text of the letter to Administrator Huerta follows: The Honorable Michael P. Huerta Administrator Federal Aviation Administration U.S. Department of Transportation 800 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20591 Dear Administrator Huerta: I write to express strong concerns regarding small unmanned aircraft operating in the national airspace system.  I urge you to take immediate action by issuing an emergency rulemaking, such as an interim final rule, that would adequately address safety concerns and potential security risks. Last week’s reports of unmanned aircraft sightings near flights landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport, as well as the reported incident at Tallahassee Regional Airport earlier this year, demonstrate that this is a serious safety issue that could have enormous consequences if not addressed promptly. In addition, small unmanned aircraft are vulnerable to being intentionally hacked or jammed if they do not have encrypted navigation systems.  This could result in the loss of control of the unmanned aircraft and could inflict harm on Americans.   I recognize the opportunities with the expanded use of unmanned aircraft and the benefits of using them for search and rescue missions, disaster monitoring, and border surveillance, among others.  However, with small unmanned aircraft becoming more prevalent, the FAA must ensure that requirements are in place to protect the safety of our local communities. I understand that the Federal Aviation Administration is currently in the process of drafting a rule for small unmanned aircraft as directed in the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (P.L. 112-95).  The FAA has not met the August 2014 deadline to issue a final rule.  It is critical that we move expeditiously to ensure the public’s safety. As you know, risks posed by unmanned aircraft are too serious to ignore.  I strongly urge you to issue an emergency rule, such as an interim final rule, to ensure the safety of our communities.  Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to your response. Regards, BRIAN SCHATZ United States Senator ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bit.ly/2jzDKNf,"Reps. Tulsi Gabbard, Aaron Schock Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Recognize #GivingTuesday, a National Day of Giving and Volunteerism",2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,bit.ly,,,legacy,"Reps. Tulsi Gabbard, Aaron Schock Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Recognize #GivingTuesday, a National Day of Giving and Volunteerism Members of Congress Unite Across the Aisle to Gather Support and Create Message of Giving Washington, DC – U.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI-2) and Congressman Aaron Schock (R-IL-18) today introduced H.Res. 761 to recognize #GivingTuesday. #GivingTuesday, the first Tuesday following Thanksgiving, kicks off the holiday giving season with a global day dedicated to charitable giving and volunteerism, to follow the widely recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday.   The #GivingTuesday resolution, recognizes that philanthropy and charitable giving knows no party divide, as giving has the ability to transcend any differences of political ideologies and has the power to unite people across boundaries.     “There are too many things that cause divisions within our communities, but one thing that can bring us together toward a common goal is that of giving to others, and making a positive impact on their lives,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. “We should always be looking for opportunities to serve others and give generously of our time and resources to worthy causes. ‘Giving Tuesday’ is a great way to raise awareness of our responsibility to serve others before ourselves, and give back to our communities. I encourage everyone to embrace these values and the spirit of Giving Tuesday.”   “According to the 2014 Millennial Impact Report, 73 percent of millennials gave to charity in 2013,” said Congressman Schock. “Generosity and philanthropy are important to our generation, and we are rising to do our part as previous generations have done. For some, it’s through financial support of a favorite charity, church, or synagogue. For others, it’s through acts of service in their communities, or even through our nation’s most important form of volunteer service in the United States Armed Forces. Whatever the avenue they choose, millennials are wholeheartedly following the great American tradition of giving back and paying it forward.”   Now in its third year, #GivingTuesday is a worldwide movement with over 16,000 U.S.-based partners that celebrates the power of giving in all its forms. Launched by the 92nd Street Y and the United Nations Foundation in 2012, this worldwide movement harnesses the power of social media and the generosity of people around the world to bring about real change in their communities and celebrates the power of giving in all its forms. This resolution was co-sponsored by Reps. Juan Vargas (D-CA-52), Cheri Bustos (D-IL-17), Todd Young (R-IN-09), and Rodney Davis (R-IL-17). Background on #GivingTuesday   #GivingTuesday, December 2, 2014, follows the widely recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, kicking off the holiday giving season with a global day dedicated to charitable giving, combining the power of social media and the generosity of people around the world to bring about real change in their communities. Now in its third year, #GivingTuesday is a worldwide movement that celebrates the power of giving in all its forms. This effort builds on the collective power of a unique blend of partners—charities, families, businesses and individuals—to transform how people think about, talk about and participate in the giving season. #GivingTuesday inspires people to take collaborative action to improve their local communities, give back in better, smarter ways to the charities and causes they celebrate and help create a better world. #GivingTuesday leverages the power of social media to create a global moment that is dedicated to giving around the world. #GivingTuesday was founded by 92nd Street Y and is spearheaded in tandem with the support of the United Nations Foundation.   A team of recognized experts, influencers, and founding partners originally spearheaded this effort. The founding partners include Blackbaud, CECP, charity: water, GlobalGiving, Groupon, Kiva, Microsoft, Pvblic Foundation, (RED), Unilever, United Nations Development Programme and Univision among many others. The movement includes signature media partner MSNBC, who will help spotlight the innovative ways that people are giving back in their communities and the world. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/press-releases/361-rep-tulsi-gabbard-sponsors-bipartisan-proposal-to-directly-arm-kurdish-peshmerga-forces,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Sponsors Bipartisan Proposal to Directly Arm Kurdish Peshmerga Forces,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Temporary authority would be given to the President to assist a trusted partner Washington, DC Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today sponsored bipartisan legislation, H.R.5747, to give the President temporary authority to directly arm the Kurdish Peshmerga in the fight against ISIL and other Islamic extremists. Currently, U.S. military aid is being dispersed solely through the Iraqi central government, which so far, has not supplied the Kurds with the equipment they need. The Kurdish Peshmerga are courageously fighting to destroy ISIL. They are the primary offensive force fighting against ISIL on the ground, and are doing so with inadequate weapons and resources. We should be doing everything we can to get them the heavy weapons and equipment they need to support their fight to eliminate our common enemy, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a Military Police Captain in the Hawaii Army National Guard and an Iraq War veteran. This bipartisan legislation will help level the playing field for this fighting force, which is vastly outgunned and mostly using outdated light weapons. Systemic changes need to occur within the structure of the Iraqi government, but we cannot wait; we must stop routing these weapons through a still dysfunctional Shiite-led central Iraqi government, which has thus far withheld necessary support to the Peshmerga, and provide equipment and heavy weapons directly to the Kurds. Their needs are urgent. We cannot waste any more time, as ISIL continues to grow, increasing the threat to the United States and our partners. Congresswoman Gabbard has consistently and strongly supported the arming of the Kurdish Peshmerga with heavy weapons and armored vehicles, and met yesterday with the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) Foreign Minister Falah Mustafa, and Dr. Fuad Hussein, President Barzanis Chief of Staff, expressing her full support and commitment to increasing direct U.S. military aid to the KRG. Led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) and Ranking Member Eliot Engel (D-NY), the legislation: Establishes as the policy of the United States to provide direct assistance to the Kurdistan Regional Government to combat ISIL; Identifies Iraqi Kurds as a reliable and stable partner of the United States; Recognizes that the Peshmerga are the official security force of the Kurdistan Regional Government, organized in accordance with the Iraqi Constitution; Emphasizes that ISIL is a significant terrorist threat which may employ more than 4,000 captured heavy weapons, 1,500 armored vehicles, and 50 long-range artillery pieces; Maintains existing Congressional oversight of significant arms transfers; and Sunsets after three years, in recognition of the emergency nature of this authority. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-sponsors-bipartisan-proposal-directly-arm-kurdish-peshmerga,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Sponsors Bipartisan Proposal to Directly Arm Kurdish Peshmerga Forces,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Temporary authority would be given to the President to assist a trusted partner Washington, DC Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today sponsored bipartisan legislation, H.R.5747, to give the President temporary authority to directly arm the Kurdish Peshmerga in the fight against ISIL and other Islamic extremists. Currently, U.S. military aid is being dispersed solely through the Iraqi central government, which so far, has not supplied the Kurds with the equipment they need. The Kurdish Peshmerga are courageously fighting to destroy ISIL. They are the primary offensive force fighting against ISIL on the ground, and are doing so with inadequate weapons and resources. We should be doing everything we can to get them the heavy weapons and equipment they need to support their fight to eliminate our common enemy, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a Military Police Captain in the Hawaii Army National Guard and an Iraq War veteran. This bipartisan legislation will help level the playing field for this fighting force, which is vastly outgunned and mostly using outdated light weapons. Systemic changes need to occur within the structure of the Iraqi government, but we cannot wait; we must stop routing these weapons through a still dysfunctional Shiite-led central Iraqi government, which has thus far withheld necessary support to the Peshmerga, and provide equipment and heavy weapons directly to the Kurds. Their needs are urgent. We cannot waste any more time, as ISIL continues to grow, increasing the threat to the United States and our partners. Congresswoman Gabbard has consistently and strongly supported the arming of the Kurdish Peshmerga with heavy weapons and armored vehicles, and met yesterday with the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) Foreign Minister Falah Mustafa, and Dr. Fuad Hussein, President Barzani's Chief of Staff, expressing her full support and commitment to increasing direct U.S. military aid to the KRG. Led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) and Ranking Member Eliot Engel (D-NY), the legislation: Establishes as the policy of the United States to provide direct assistance to the Kurdistan Regional Government to combat ISIL; Identifies Iraqi Kurds as a reliable and stable partner of the United States; Recognizes that the Peshmerga are the official security force of the Kurdistan Regional Government, organized in accordance with the Iraqi Constitution; Emphasizes that ISIL is a significant terrorist threat which may employ more than 4,000 captured heavy weapons, 1,500 armored vehicles, and 50 long-range artillery pieces; Maintains existing Congressional oversight of significant arms transfers; and Sunsets after three years, in recognition of the emergency nature of this authority. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-tulsi-gabbard-aaron-schock-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-recognize,"Reps. Tulsi Gabbard, Aaron Schock Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Recognize #GivingTuesday, a National Day of Giving and Volunteerism",2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Members of Congress Unite Across the Aisle to Gather Support and Create Message of Giving Washington, DC U.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI-2) and Congressman Aaron Schock (R-IL-18) today introduced H.Res. 761 to recognize #GivingTuesday. #GivingTuesday, the first Tuesday following Thanksgiving, kicks off the holiday giving season with a global day dedicated to charitable giving and volunteerism, to follow the widely recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The #GivingTuesday resolution, recognizes that philanthropy and charitable giving knows no party divide, as giving has the ability to transcend any differences of political ideologies and has the power to unite people across boundaries. There are too many things that cause divisions within our communities, but one thing that can bring us together toward a common goal is that of giving to others, and making a positive impact on their lives, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. We should always be looking for opportunities to serve others and give generously of our time and resources to worthy causes. Giving Tuesday' is a great way to raise awareness of our responsibility to serve others before ourselves, and give back to our communities. I encourage everyone to embrace these values and the spirit of Giving Tuesday. According to the 2014 Millennial Impact Report, 73 percent of millennials gave to charity in 2013, said Congressman Schock. Generosity and philanthropy are important to our generation, and we are rising to do our part as previous generations have done. For some, it's through financial support of a favorite charity, church, or synagogue. For others, it's through acts of service in their communities, or even through our nation's most important form of volunteer service in the United States Armed Forces. Whatever the avenue they choose, millennials are wholeheartedly following the great American tradition of giving back and paying it forward. Now in its third year, #GivingTuesday is a worldwide movement with over 16,000 U.S.-based partners that celebrates the power of giving in all its forms. Launched by the 92nd Street Y and the United Nations Foundation in 2012, this worldwide movement harnesses the power of social media and the generosity of people around the world to bring about real change in their communities and celebrates the power of giving in all its forms. This resolution was co-sponsored by Reps. Juan Vargas (D-CA-52), Cheri Bustos (D-IL-17), Todd Young (R-IN-09), and Rodney Davis (R-IL-17). Background on #GivingTuesday #GivingTuesday, December 2, 2014, follows the widely recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, kicking off the holiday giving season with a global day dedicated to charitable giving, combining the power of social media and the generosity of people around the world to bring about real change in their communities. Now in its third year, #GivingTuesday is a worldwide movement that celebrates the power of giving in all its forms. This effort builds on the collective power of a unique blend of partnerscharities, families, businesses and individualsto transform how people think about, talk about and participate in the giving season. #GivingTuesday inspires people to take collaborative action to improve their local communities, give back in better, smarter ways to the charities and causes they celebrate and help create a better world. #GivingTuesday leverages the power of social media to create a global moment that is dedicated to giving around the world. #GivingTuesday was founded by 92nd Street Y and is spearheaded in tandem with the support of the United Nations Foundation. A team of recognized experts, influencers, and founding partners originally spearheaded this effort. The founding partners include Blackbaud, CECP, charity: water, GlobalGiving, Groupon, Kiva, Microsoft, Pvblic Foundation, (RED), Unilever, United Nations Development Programme and Univision among many others. The movement includes signature media partner MSNBC, who will help spotlight the innovative ways that people are giving back in their communities and the world. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205235829/http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/news/press-releases/15-media-center/press-releases/361-rep-tulsi-gabbard-sponsors-bipartisan-proposal-to-directly-arm-kurdish-peshmerga-forces,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Sponsors Bipartisan Proposal to Directly Arm Kurdish Peshmerga Forces,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Sponsors Bipartisan Proposal to Directly Arm Kurdish Peshmerga Forces Temporary authority would be given to the President to assist a trusted partner   Washington, DC – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today sponsored bipartisan legislation, H.R.5747, to give the President temporary authority to directly arm the Kurdish Peshmerga in the fight against ISIL and other Islamic extremists. Currently, U.S. military aid is being dispersed solely through the Iraqi central government, which so far, has not supplied the Kurds with the equipment they need.   “The Kurdish Peshmerga are courageously fighting to destroy ISIL. They are the primary offensive force fighting against ISIL on the ground, and are doing so with inadequate weapons and resources. We should be doing everything we can to get them the heavy weapons and equipment they need to support their fight to eliminate our common enemy,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a Military Police Captain in the Hawai‘i Army National Guard and an Iraq War veteran. “This bipartisan legislation will help level the playing field for this fighting force, which is vastly outgunned and mostly using outdated light weapons. Systemic changes need to occur within the structure of the Iraqi government, but we cannot wait; we must stop routing these weapons through a still dysfunctional Shiite-led central Iraqi government, which has thus far withheld necessary support to the Peshmerga, and provide equipment and heavy weapons directly to the Kurds. Their needs are urgent. We cannot waste any more time, as ISIL continues to grow, increasing the threat to the United States and our partners.”   Congresswoman Gabbard has consistently and strongly supported the arming of the Kurdish Peshmerga with heavy weapons and armored vehicles, and met yesterday with the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) Foreign Minister Falah Mustafa, and Dr. Fuad Hussein, President Barzani’s Chief of Staff, expressing her full support and commitment to increasing direct U.S. military aid to the KRG.   Led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) and Ranking Member Eliot Engel (D-NY), the legislation:   Establishes as the policy of the United States to provide direct assistance to the Kurdistan Regional Government to combat ISIL; Identifies Iraqi Kurds as a reliable and stable partner of the United States; Recognizes that the Peshmerga are the official security force of the Kurdistan Regional Government, organized in accordance with the Iraqi Constitution; Emphasizes that ISIL is a significant terrorist threat which may employ more than 4,000 captured heavy weapons, 1,500 armored vehicles, and 50 long-range artillery pieces; Maintains existing Congressional oversight of significant arms transfers; and Sunsets after three years, in recognition of the emergency nature of this authority.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-estimated-7000-hawaii-immigrants-will-benefit-from-obama-action,"Hirono: Estimated 7,000 Hawaii Immigrants Will Benefit from Obama Action",2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Hirono: Estimated 7,000 Hawaii Immigrants Will Benefit from Obama Action Sen. Mazie Hirono calls the president's action a good first step but is hopeful a new Congress will do more to help immigrant families. By:  Nick Grube Thursday, November 20, 2014 U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono talked with Civil Beat shortly after President Barack Obama on Thursday announced executive action to bolster border security and protect nearly 5 million undocumented immigrants from deportation. While she said the plan is a good start, she agrees with the president that comprehensive immigration reform is needed, and that it should include a path to citizenship for what’s estimated to be more than 11 million people living in the shadows. Hirono has a unique view on the matter : She is the only member of the Senate who is an immigrant herself. She’s the go-to lawmaker in the Hawaii delegation when it comes to immigration, and she was instrumental in getting several provisions included in a comprehensive immigration reform bill that passed the Senate last year. One amendment in particular would have restored Medicaid eligibility for migrants from Micronesia, Palau and the Marshall Islands who are allowed to live in the U.S. under the Compact of Free Association. PF Bentley/Civil Beat U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono is the only immigrant lawmaker in the Senate. CIVIL BEAT: What does President Obama’s executive action mean in the overall immigration discussion that’s taking place in the U.S? MAZIE HIRONO: I know that the president’s action gave a lot of people in our country hope that we can move toward comprehensive immigration reform. This is a really great step toward allowing 5 million or so people to come out of the shadows to be able to work, to be able to have families, to pay their taxes so I think this is a really positive step. However, as the president says, this is not permanent, and he continues to call for comprehensive immigration reform which is what we have been fighting for for over a year now. And the Senate did pass a comprehensive bill that was a compromise. That bill passed in a Democrat-controlled Senate and died in the Republican-controlled House. Now Republicans control both chambers, so how can we expect comprehensive immigration reform to move forward? The bill that passed the Senate was a bipartisan bill, and I think that the Senate Republicans and the Republicans in the House of Representatives see the cry for immigration reform in our country. The majority of the people want humane, comprehensive reform that does protect our borders but also enables 11 million undocumented people to be on the road to citizenship. That is what the American people want, and I hope that what we got from this election is the desire of the American people that we get important things done in Congress. And comprehensive immigration reform is important. Both Republicans and Democrats agree that this is a broken system that needs to be fixed. What does comprehensive immigration reform look like to you? It would continue to have family unity as a guiding principle because our immigration policies up to now have made a priority of keeping families united. I’d like that to continue as a guiding principle for immigration reform. At the same time, I very much support a path to citizenship for 11 million undocumented people in our country who right now are living with the fear of deportation every single day. We would also like to encourage more people with STEM backgrounds and those kinds of experiences to be able to stay here after they get their STEM degrees from our colleges. A lot of this was in the comprehensive reform bill that we passed and in particular for Hawaii, we got a number of amendments into the bill that passed the Senate that addressed particularly situations in Hawaii. For example, it’s really important that the Filipino World War II vets who fought side by side with American troops are able to reunite with their children in the Philippines. And their children who are in the Philippines, who are in their 60s or older, have been waiting for decades because of the backlog of people wanting to come to our country. For Hawaii, restoring Medicaid eligibility for Compact migrants is critical because the state of Hawaii spends some $30 million to $40 million a year to provide healthcare for our Compact migrant families. And we would like to get reimbursed for that through having them because eligible, once again, for Medicaid. Tourism is very important to our economy, and we know that if Hong Kong were to become eligible for visa waiver status that many more visitors from Hong Kong would come to Hawaii. So that was another amendment that would have a particularly beneficial impact on Hawaii. Hawaii has unique immigration challenges, so what does Obama’s executive action mean for us? There are estimates that we’ve been provided that say there are some 7,000 people in Hawaii who would be impacted by the president’s actions. So these would be DREAMers and these would be parents of U.S. citizen children in Hawaii. How feasible is it that Congress will be able to pass comprehensive immigration reform before the temporary protections expire or are undone by a new president? I am hopeful. If we have another president who cares as much as this president does about our families and keeping our families united and enabling people who are fearful of being deported every day, then I hope that next president will continue the executive order. But as this president says and I agree, we need to do legislation that’s going to put in the type of reforms that we’re talking about. President Obama said immigrants are an important part of bolstering the U.S. economy, what immediate impacts do you see from his executive action? What the impact of this will be to our country nationwide is in the hundreds of millions of dollars because there will be payroll taxes they will be paying for Social Security — without getting those benefits, by the way — and they will be buying products so it’s going to be a boon to our economy. But at the same time I think we shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that the president is reflecting the values of our country with what he’s doing. He’s keeping families together. What good is it to separate parents from their American-born children and deporting these parents and putting their children in a foster care situation? It doesn’t make a lot of sense to me. The value of keeping families together should not be lost. Critics say the president’s action will encourage more people to enter the country illegally, how would you address those concerns? The president also talked about stricter border control. What he’s saying is we should focus our resources on identifying risk and identifying people who pose safety risks to our people. Those are the people we ought to be identifying and deporting — not our families. Is there anything more you’d like to add? This is a broken system and we need to enact comprehensive immigration reform, and I call on the leaders of the House and Senate to follow the wishes of the American people. This transcript has been edited for length and clarity. Read the entire piece at: http://www.civilbeat.com/2014/11/hirono-estimated-7000-hawaii-immigrants-will-benefit-from-obama-action/.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/out-of-the-shadows,'Out of the shadows',2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"'Out of the shadows' By:  Derrick DePledge Thursday, November 20, 2014 U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, the only immigrant in the U.S. Senate, on Thursday praised President Barack Obama's executive action on immigration. The Hawaii Democrat, who as a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee was responsible for several provisions in a Senate immigration reform bill that stalled in the U.S. House, made an appearance on MSNBC's ""All In with Chris Hayes."" I think this was a really big step for all of the advocates for immigration reform. And what the president did tonight gives all of us hope. And as you mentioned, I came here with a very courageous mother when I was not yet 8 years old. We were very poor. I certainly didn't speak any English. But she had a dream that by bringing us to this country and working hard, that she could make a better life for herself and her children. And that is the dream that immigrants have. And comprehensive immigration reform was purposeful work for me as a member of the Judiciary Committee. And what the president did tonight, as a I said, gives some 5 million people that chance to come out of the shadows, to be able to work, to be with their families, to be with their children, to pay their taxes, and be a part of our community in the way that we all dream about. Asked by Hayes whether Obama had ""poisoned the well"" by taking executive action, rather than going through Congress, Hirono said: I don't buy that at all, because we had over a year after the Senate passed its comprehensive immigration reform bill for the House to take action. There is absolutely nothing preventing the House of Representatives from coming forward and working with the president and -- again -- with the Senate to pass comprehensive, sensible, humane immigration reform. So for those who are saying that this is going to poison the well, you know what? I hope that that is not a self-fulfilling prophecy, because the president has said very clearly, this is a temporary approach, and what we need to do is to have comprehensive reform that will enable 11 million people to be on a path to citizenship and be a part of our economy. Asked by a panelist about attitudes toward immigration among Republican voters nationally, particularly those who live in communities with large immigrant populations, the senator said: Aside from the native peoples who were here, the rest of us are immigrants. Most of us trace our ancestry not very far back to another country. For myself, I am a first generation. And we know that the majority of the American public -- they want comprehensive immigration reform. They want these 11 million undocumented people to be able to come out of the shadows and be a part of our communities, pay their taxes, take care of their children. The majority of the people in America want that. I think it's the Republicans who are not hearing that message. And I hope they do after the president takes this step and all these people can come out and be able to pursue the American dream. But, again, this is temporary ...  Read the entire piece at: http://politicalradar.staradvertiserblogs.com/2014/11/20/out-of-the-shadows/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-applauds-president-obama-for-executive-order-on-immigration-enforcement,SENATOR HIRONO APPLAUDS PRESIDENT OBAMA FOR EXECUTIVE ORDER ON IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO APPLAUDS PRESIDENT OBAMA FOR EXECUTIVE ORDER ON IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT Thursday, November 20, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Senator Mazie K. Hirono, the only immigrant serving in U.S. Senate, released the following statement on President Barack Obama’s executive order on immigration enforcement. “This is a big step toward bringing millions out of the shadows to help strengthen our economy and our national security. Every President since Dwight Eisenhower, Democrats and Republicans alike, has exercised executive action on immigration. President Obama is no different in this move.” Said Senator Hirono, “Last year the Senate passed a bipartisan, comprehensive immigration reform bill that I was honored to help shape. I will continue to fight for reforms that allow families to stay together, and urge Congress to take action to fix our broken immigration system.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-commends-president-obamas-new-executive-actions-on-immigration-,Schatz Commends President Obama's New Executive Actions on Immigration,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz Commends President Obama's New Executive Actions on Immigration Bipartisan Immigration Reform Legislation Passed By the Senate Awaits Action in the House of Representatives Thursday, November 20, 2014 Washington, DC – President Barack Obama today announced new executive actions to address the nation’s broken immigration system. The executive actions, which have been used by every president since the 1950’s, will make sure our immigration enforcement efforts are used to secure the border, prevent threats to national security, and protect public safety – instead of wasting our resources deporting law-abiding immigrants who have lived in the country for years.  U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) commended the announcement which would keep families together and enable immigrants who pass criminal background checks to work legally and pay taxes. “For decades, our broken immigration system has separated families and forced millions to live in the shadows. That is why I was proud to help pass bipartisan immigration reform legislation in the Senate last year.  But since then, House Republicans have refused to take up the bill and have offered no realistic solutions,” Senator Schatz said. “I commend President Obama for taking measured steps to address our broken system.  This will bring some welcome relief for the many undocumented families hoping to live the American Dream, but we need a permanent solution from Congress.” In June 2013, Schatz voted to pass the Bipartisan Immigration Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act which would create an accountable path to citizenship and make investments in infrastructure, technology, and personnel to secure our borders. The bill passed with a strong bipartisan Senate majority and has awaited action from the House of  Representatives for more than a year.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/news/press-releases/15-media-center/press-releases/358-media-advisory-rep-tulsi-gabbard-to-question-volcano-preparedness-response-leaders,MEDIA ADVISORY: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to Question Volcano Preparedness & Response Leaders,2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Gabbard will attend House Natural Resources Subcommittee hearing  Media Advisory for TODAY, November 19, 2014 – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today announced she will attend a House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources hearing on volcano preparation and response. Congresswoman Gabbard will be a visiting guest member at the subcommittee’s hearing due to the urgent and Hawai‘i-specific nature of the discussion. Gordon Ito, Hawai‘i State Insurance Commissioner will testify in person, and Administrator Darryl Oliveira of Hawai‘i County Civil Defense may testify by video-conference .   Congresswoman Gabbard has visited the Puna area several times since the June 27th lava flow began, meeting with local residents, small business owners, and officials, assessing preparedness, property and infrastructure damage, and volunteered for state active duty with the Hawai‘i Army National Guard in Pahoa.   A livestream video feed of the hearing will be available at: https://naturalresources.house.gov/live/ (choose the Room 1334 feed).     DETAILS:   TODAY, November 19:   1:00 p.m. Eastern/8:00 a.m. Hawai‘i: House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources hearing, “Volcano Hazards: Exploring the National Preparation and Response Strategy”             Where: Room 1334 Longworth House Office Building, Washington DC             Livestream: https://naturalresources.house.gov/live/. Choose the Room 1334 feed.             Witnesses: Dr. Charles Mandeville Volcano Hazards Program Coordinator U.S. Geological Survey   Mr. Tom Drean Director and State Geologist Wyoming State Geological Survey Mr. Gordon Ito Insurance Commissioner State of Hawai‘i   Dr. Shanaka de Silva Professor College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences Oregon State University Mr. Darryl Oliveira (tentative, pending videoconference connection) Administrator Hawai‘i County Civil Defense   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/media-advisory-rep-tulsi-gabbard-question-volcano-preparedness-response-leaders,MEDIA ADVISORY: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to Question Volcano Preparedness & Response Leaders,2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Gabbard will attend House Natural Resources Subcommittee hearing Media Advisory for TODAY, November 19, 2014 Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today announced she will attend a House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources hearing on volcano preparation and response. Congresswoman Gabbard will be a visiting guest member at the subcommittee's hearing due to the urgent and Hawaii-specific nature of the discussion. Gordon Ito, Hawaii State Insurance Commissioner will testify in person, and Administrator Darryl Oliveira of Hawaii County Civil Defense may testify by video-conference . Congresswoman Gabbard has visited the Puna area several times since the June 27th lava flow began, meeting with local residents, small business owners, and officials, assessing preparedness, property and infrastructure damage, and volunteered for state active duty with the Hawaii Army National Guard in Pahoa. A livestream video feed of the hearing will be available at: https://naturalresources.house.gov/live/ (choose the Room 1334 feed). DETAILS: TODAY, November 19: 1:00 p.m. Eastern/8:00 a.m. Hawaii: House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources hearing, Volcano Hazards: Exploring the National Preparation and Response Strategy Where: Room 1334 Longworth House Office Building, Washington DC Livestream: https://naturalresources.house.gov/live/. Choose the Room 1334 feed. Witnesses: Dr. Charles Mandeville Volcano Hazards Program Coordinator U.S. Geological Survey Mr. Tom Drean Director and State Geologist Wyoming State Geological Survey Mr. Gordon Ito Insurance Commissioner State of Hawaii Dr. Shanaka de Silva Professor College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences Oregon State University Mr. Darryl Oliveira (tentative, pending videoconference connection) Administrator Hawaii County Civil Defense ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-honors-hawai-i-county-leaders-lava-flow-response,VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Honors Hawaii County Leaders for Lava Flow Response,2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Lauds work of Mayor Billy Kenoi, Civil Defense Director Darryl Oliveira for tireless effort Washington, DC Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today honored Hawaii County leaders Mayor Billy Kenoi and Civil Defense Director Darryl Oliveira for their tireless work in response to the June 27th lava flow in Puna. She has remained in close contact with the two leaders throughout the preparation and response process, and will be questioning Director Oliveira today in a livestreamed hearing of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources. I want to take this opportunity to highlight two courageous leaders who've been the heart of a very strong, resilient community who face an uncertain future as the Kilauea lava flow continues slowly and steadily toward their homes, their businesses and their community, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard on the floor of the House of Representatives. Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi and Hawaii County Civil Defense Director Chief Darryl Oliveira have shown incredible leadership not only in response to this, but also in response to Hurricane Iselle and Tropical Storm Ana, and now for nearly five months, managing this slowly creeping lava flow threatening Pahoa. All three of these natural disasters have been punishing on this community of Puna, whose residents continue to unite and show optimism even with this uncertain future. Billy and Darryl's tireless work and strong leadership has kept people safe, informed and prepared, even as Mother Nature, through Madam Pele, runs her course. Mahalo to Mayor Kenoi and Chief Oliveira! We stand ready as your partners to support the community we both serve, and we are grateful for your unwavering commitment to them. A video of the congresswoman's speech is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205235841/http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/news/press-releases/15-media-center/press-releases/359-video-rep-tulsi-gabbard-honors-hawai-i-county-leaders-for-lava-flow-response,VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Honors Hawaii County Leaders for Lava Flow Response,2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"VIDEO: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Honors Hawai‘i County Leaders for Lava Flow Response Lauds work of Mayor Billy Kenoi, Civil Defense Director Darryl Oliveira for tireless effort   Washington, DC – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today honored Hawai‘i County leaders Mayor Billy Kenoi and Civil Defense Director Darryl Oliveira for their tireless work in response to the June 27th lava flow in Puna. She has remained in close contact with the two leaders throughout the preparation and response process, and will be questioning Director Oliveira today in a livestreamed hearing of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources.   “I want to take this opportunity to highlight two courageous leaders who’ve been the heart of a very strong, resilient community who face an uncertain future as the Kilauea lava flow continues slowly and steadily toward their homes, their businesses and their community,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard on the floor of the House of Representatives. “Hawai‘i County Mayor Billy Kenoi and Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Director Chief Darryl Oliveira have shown incredible leadership not only in response to this, but also in response to Hurricane Iselle and Tropical Storm Ana, and now for nearly five months, managing this slowly creeping lava flow threatening Pahoa.   “All three of these natural disasters have been punishing on this community of Puna, whose residents continue to unite and show optimism even with this uncertain future. Billy and Darryl’s tireless work and strong leadership has kept people safe, informed and prepared, even as Mother Nature, through Madam Pele, runs her course. Mahalo to Mayor Kenoi and Chief Oliveira! We stand ready as your partners to support the community we both serve, and we are grateful for your unwavering commitment to them.”   A video of the congresswoman’s speech is available here.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/senators-whitehouse-schatz-introduce-carbon-fee-legislation,"Senators Whitehouse, Schatz Introduce Carbon Fee Legislation",2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senators Whitehouse, Schatz Introduce Carbon Fee Legislation Wednesday, November 19, 2014 Washington, DC – As President Obama and Senate Democrats continue to make clear that they are not backing off in the fight against climate change following the election, U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today unveiled legislation that would reduce carbon pollution and generate as much as $2 trillion dollars over ten years – all of which would be returned to the American people.  The American Opportunity Carbon Fee Act offers solutions to correct the market failure that currently allows polluters to push the costs of their pollution onto everyday Americans and their families. “With this bill we can take control of our economic future.  This is one of the most straightforward solutions to climate change, and has growing support across the ideological spectrum,” said Senator Schatz.  “Republicans in the Congress are going to take some time to warm up to this proposal, but I am confident that they will listen to their consciences and their constituents, and join us on the right side of history.” “Right now we are subsidizing big polluters to the tune of hundreds of billions of dollars annually by allowing them to pollute for free,” said Senator Whitehouse.  “We all pay the costs of this subsidy through higher health costs, property damage from rising seas, warming waters that affect our fishing industry, and more.  This legislation will put the costs of carbon pollution back on the polluters, and in doing so, will generate significant revenue – all of which will be returned to the American people.” The American Opportunity Carbon Fee Act would require polluters to pay a fee for every ton of carbon pollution they emit.  The fee would start at $42 per ton in 2015 and increase annually by an inflation-adjusted 2 percent.  The price of the fee follows the Obama Administration’s central estimate of the “social cost of carbon,” the value of the harms caused by carbon pollution including falling agricultural productivity, human health hazards, and property damages from flooding. The fee would be assessed on all coal, oil, and natural gas produced in or imported to the U.S. and cover large emitters of non-carbon greenhouse gases and carbon dioxide from non-fossil-fuel sources.  The U.S. Department of Treasury would assess and collect the fee, working with the Environmental Protection Agency and Energy Information Administration to ensure the best research methods and data are used. A study from Resources for the Future, a non-partisan think tank, estimates that a carbon fee tracking the social cost of carbon would reduce carbon pollution by about 50% within a decade from the electricity sector alone compared to business-as-usual. The electricity sector is the largest source of carbon pollution, emitting about 40% of annual emissions. All revenue generated by the carbon pollution fee – which could exceed $2 trillion over ten years – would be credited to an American Opportunity Fund to be returned to the American people.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/mikulski-stabenow-together-with-bipartisan-senate-women-call-on-federal-health-leaders-to-prioritize-combating-womens-heart-disease,"MIKULSKI, STABENOW TOGETHER WITH BIPARTISAN SENATE WOMEN CALL ON FEDERAL HEALTH LEADERS TO PRIORITIZE COMBATING WOMEN’S HEART DISEASE",2014-11-18,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"MIKULSKI, STABENOW TOGETHER WITH BIPARTISAN SENATE WOMEN CALL ON FEDERAL HEALTH LEADERS TO PRIORITIZE COMBATING WOMEN’S HEART DISEASE In letters to HHS, CDC and NIH leaders, Senators call for greater focus combating heart disease as number one killer of women Tuesday, November 18, 2014 WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.) and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) today were joined by a bipartisan group of Senate women including U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Mary Landrieu (D-La.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) in announcing that they have called on federal health leaders to prioritize combating heart disease, which is the number one killer of women in America. “Heart disease kills more women than all cancers combined and, since 1984, more women than men have died from heart disease. Yet, for the last 50 years, women’s heart treatment has largely been based on medical research on men – often to negative results,” the Senators wrote. “Every minute, a woman dies from heart disease. We cannot let another year pass with 400,000 more women dying because these disparities are not addressed. While not enough is being done to recognize the differences and appropriately treat heart disease in women, we believe that your leadership could have a huge impact on combating women’s cardiovascular disease.” “Heart disease manifests itself differently in men and women but is the number one leading cause of death for both, nationally and in Hawaii. Not enough research and education has been done on how to diagnose and treat women. Change must occur to ensure that our mothers, friends, daughters, and sisters have a fighting chance against this deadly disease,” said Senator Hirono. In a letter (available here) to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Sylvia Burwell, Senators Mikulski, Stabenow, Feinstein, Boxer, Murray, Landrieu, Cantwell, Gillibrand, Baldwin and Hirono call on the agency to examine existing HHS programs in an effort to determine if more resources can be directed toward women’s cardiovascular disease. Joined by Senator Ayotte in letters (available here and here) to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Dr. Thomas Frieden and Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Dr. Francis Collins, the Senators called on these agencies to ensure women’s heart health is a greater focus in health education, science, and research. “Fighting for women’s health has been one of my life-long priorities. For far too long, women did not believe heart disease was their disease,” said Senator Mikulski, a senior member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee. “When I first came to the Senate, women’s health wasn’t a national priority. We’ve changed that paradigm but we’re not done yet. I continue to fight for women to get the preventive care and treatment they need to live healthy lives. We must raise awareness, raise consciousness, and raise hell so that women are not left behind when it comes to their health.” “Unfortunately, a majority of women and even some doctors are unfamiliar with the symptoms, diagnoses, and dangers of heart disease in women,” said Senator Stabenow. “When we help educate women and their doctors, create more opportunities for women to get screenings, and get more money for research, we can fight this disease and save lives.” The Senate women’s outreach coincides with the launch of Fight the Ladykiller, a campaign to raise awareness, encourage action and drive new research to fight women’s heart disease. The campaign is an effort of the newly formed Women’s Heart Alliance, founded by Barbra Streisand and Ronald O. Perelman and two of America’s leading medical institutions – the Barbara Streisand Women’s Heart Center at Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute and the Ronald O. Perelman Heart Institute at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center. “At a time when 1 in 3 women in the U.S. dies from heart disease, it is critical that we prioritize funding for screening, treatment, and research that will raise awareness and save lives,” said Senator Patty Murray.  “The warning signs for cardiovascular diseases are often different for women than for men, and we must ensure women across the country have the information they need on prevention and treatment.” “Heart disease is the number one cause of death for women in America. And it especially affects women in my home state. I always encourage women in Louisiana and across our country to get regular check-ups and to make heart healthy choices,” said Senator Landrieu. “Our health leaders must engage in vigorous research of heart disease in women. I am proud to be joined by women on both sides of the aisle to advocate for a renewed focus on this issue to help save the lives of women across our country.” “We have a responsibility to do everything we can to fight a disease that claims more lives of women in America than any other cause,” Senator Gillibrand said.  “We owe it to women in America to make sure they have access to the screenings and the care they need. I urge HHS to analyze their current programs to make sure doctors, clinics and researchers are sufficiently armed with the resources they need to reach out and treat more women, and save lives.” “Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the U.S., but we still don’t know enough about how certain risk factors can impact women differently than men nor how symptoms unique to women can help assist with early detection,” said Senator Ayotte.  “By calling on the NIH and CDC to prioritize women’s heart health, including placing a focus on more representative research, we can encourage greater awareness of women’s cardiovascular health and promote more screenings that can help save women’s lives.” “It is past time to level the playing field when it comes to treatments for women’s health and to fill the gaps in scientific research about diseases that affect women, like heart disease,” Senator Baldwin said. “We must continue to prioritize women’s health studies, prevention and education efforts to ensure that all women have what they need to live a healthy life.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-once-again-votes-to-block-expedited-keystone-pipeline-construction,SENATOR HIRONO ONCE AGAIN VOTES TO BLOCK EXPEDITED KEYSTONE PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION,2014-11-18,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO ONCE AGAIN VOTES TO BLOCK EXPEDITED KEYSTONE PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION CALLS FOR RENEWED FOCUS ON CLEAN ENERGY DEVELOPMENT Tuesday, November 18, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C.  –  Senator Mazie K. Hirono today released the following statement after voting against the expedited construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline. The bill failed on a 59-41 vote as 60 were needed for passage. ""The fact remains that we as a country should refocus our efforts on developing truly clean and renewable energy that will create jobs and long term economic stability for small businesses and our economy. Climate change and further dependence on fuels that produce greenhouse gases threatens our islands' economy, our national security and our very way of life,” said Senator Hirono. “Fast tracking the Keystone Pipeline would only further our country's addiction to fossil fuels instead of developing a long term strategy to address sustainable energy practices.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-votes-against-keystone-xl-pipeline,Schatz Votes Against Keystone XL Pipeline,2014-11-18,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz Votes Against Keystone XL Pipeline Keystone XL Would Threaten Public Health and Undermine Efforts to Combat Climate Change Tuesday, November 18, 2014 Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) voted against S.2880, a bill to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline, which would carry 830,000 barrels per day of dirty tar sands oil bound for global markets from Canada to refineries along the Gulf Coast.  The U.S. Senate failed to reach the 60 vote threshold to advance the bill, voting 59-41. The House of Representatives passed their version of the bill on Friday by a vote of 252-161. “Encouraging the production of Canadian tar sands – some of the dirtiest oil in the world – is not in America’s national interest,” Senator Schatz said.  “Congress should be focused on transitioning to clean energy and working on things that will have a positive impact on the economy rather than trying to approve an unnecessary pipeline.”  In his floor speech, Senator Schatz cited four reasons for voting against the Keystone XL Pipeline: The oil from tar sands is exceptionally dirty, and cannot be justified because of its negative impacts on health and climate change. The acquisition and use of oil from tar sands puts far more carbon pollution in the atmosphere than conventional oil. The pipeline will have a direct, negative impact on the people and communities that live in its path. The 875 mile route of this proposed pipeline has over 50 river crossings, including the Yellowstone River in Montana, which is still recovering from a major crude oil leak by an ExxonMobil pipeline in 2011. The pipeline would have a significant effect on the warming of our planet, increasing carbon pollution rather than reducing it. The bill would circumvent existing executive branch review. Because the Keystone XL pipeline would cross international boundaries, the State Department is responsible for reviewing and deciding if a permit is in the national interest. The bill ignores this review process. This bill could potentially limit state and local siting decisions, as well as some legal challenges. Full text of speech as prepared for delivery: Mr. President, I rise today to oppose Senate bill 2280, A Bill to Approve the Keystone XL Pipeline, and urge my colleagues to join me in voting no. The Keystone XL pipeline would carry 830,000 barrels per day of tar sands oil bound for global markets from Canada to refineries along the Gulf Coast.  It represents a massive endorsement of a fossil fuel economy when we should be focusing on transitioning to a clean energy economy. There are many reasons to vote against this bill.  Since many of my colleagues have already spoken so ably on this topic, I will focus on the four reasons why I oppose this bill, and this pipeline. The first reason that we must reject this bill is that the oil from tar sands is exceptionally dirty, and we don’t need it enough to justify its impacts on health and climate change.  Mining tar sands oil is nothing like setting up a rig and drilling a hole in the ground.   Tar sands are dirty in terms of the land destroyed, dirty in terms of the water wasted and contaminated, and dirty in terms of the amount of energy needed to mine, transport, and process the oil.  Getting and using oil from tar sands puts far more carbon pollution in the atmosphere than conventional oil. When tar sands are near the surface, they are dug up along with all of the surrounding earth, including the boreal forests that sit on top. These are forests that play a critical role in the health of the earth and remain largely untouched.  Losing them will contribute to global deforestation, further exacerbating climate change and affecting public health. Tar sands are a mixture of sand, clay, water, and a gooey form of petroleum that resembles tar. Think of it as a mixture of dirt and molasses, and imagine trying to separate the two. If you think that sounds difficult, you’re right. After being mined the thick, sludgy mixture that remains is transported to facilities that separate the oil using multiple water and energy intensive rinse-cycles. The water used in this process becomes contaminated with toxins and is no longer suitable for other uses.  Oil companies use massive amounts of water to mine the tar sands.  In 2011, tar sands mining in Canada used more water than the entire city of Toronto uses annually, representing a massive new strain on freshwater resources. This is not the direction we want to go in.  We need to fight climate change and promote clean energy sources that don’t present a constant danger of harming our health, our drinking water, and our economy.  Why are we spending time today trying to approve something that quite literally takes us in the wrong direction? This brings me to the second reason this pipeline must be rejected: it will have a direct, negative impact on the people and communities that live in its path. The eight hundred and seventy five mile route of this proposed pipeline has over 50 river crossings, including the Yellowstone River in Montana, which is still recovering from a major crude oil leak by an ExxonMobil pipeline in 2011. That pipeline’s leak contaminated eighty five miles of the river and its floodplain -- placing an enormous burden on families and businesses that depend on it. Pipelines transport oil, but they also leak.  Regularly.  The existing Keystone pipeline system for Canadian tar sands leaked 14 times during its first year of operation, with one incident leaking 21,000 gallons. In its environmental review, the State Department estimated that the proposed Keystone XL pipeline would fail several times each year. In 2010, a six-foot break in a pipeline carrying oil from tar sands spilled nearly one million gallons of crude oil into the Kalamazoo River in Michigan. This was one of the largest inland oil spills in United States history and also one of the costliest, with clean-up costs totaling over one billion dollars. Households in the area were evacuated and told not to drink their water. Thirty-five miles of the river were contaminated and clean-up continued four years after the spill. The really troubling thing about this spill, and any future spills coming from the Keystone XL pipeline, is that the companies who own the oil take advantage of a loophole that lets them avoid paying their fair share into the national Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund.  This trust fund has been in place for nearly 30 years, and the money in it helps respond to and clean up oil spills. Every barrel of oil produced or imported into the United States is charged 8 cents, and the money goes into the trust fund.  It’s like an insurance policy for events where companies are unable to pay for spill cleanup or in emergency response situations.  It makes sense, plain and simple. What doesn’t make sense is that, due to this loophole, the oil from the tar sands in Canada is exempt from that 8-cent fee.   So let me ask my colleagues this - why would you vote for a bill that circumvents executive review of an international pipeline carrying the dirtiest oil in the world - produced in Canada - headed mostly for world markets – a bill that does nothing to close a loophole exempting oil from tar sands from having to pay a small, common-sense fee - a fee that everyone else pays - meant for responding to and cleaning up spills?  How is that equitable?  How can this bill ask so little of the oil companies, while giving them so much? A third reason we must reject this bill, and this pipeline, is the effect it will have on the warming of our planet. The facts plainly show that we must reduce carbon pollution, not add to it, if we have any hope of preventing major changes to our way of life. We must go forward, not backwards. If we are serious about leaving our children a healthy world, we will vote no on this bill and reject this pipeline. We know a majority of the public supports bold action to solve climate change. In recent years, no single issue related to fossil fuels and climate change has commanded the level of civic engagement as the Keystone XL pipeline. Countless rallies, public hearings in cities and towns along the proposed route, lawsuits, and debates in Congress reveal how much people care about stopping this pipeline.  In fact, the pipeline was booed so loudly when advertised on the jumbo-tron at a Nebraska Cornhusker’s football game that the university cut sponsorship ties with TransCanada – the owner of the pipeline. Finally, Mr. President, this bill is flawed.  Not only because of what it seeks to do, but also because of how it seeks to do it. The bill would circumvent existing executive branch review. Because the Keystone XL pipeline would cross international boundaries, the State Department is responsible for reviewing and deciding if a permit is in the national interest. The bill before us today willfully ignores this review process and goes out of its way to rubber-stamp compliance with important environmental protections. The way it is currently written, this bill could potentially limit state and local siting decisions, as well as some legal challenges. It attempts to approve a pipeline that doesn’t even have a finalized route, but does have lawsuits pending against it in the Nebraska Supreme Court. Congress should focus on the things that will have a positive impact on the economy and jobs, rather than trying to circumvent executive review and local processes to approve an unnecessary pipeline.  We should address things of real national significance like immigration reform, spending bills, and defense reauthorization before the end of the year.  This bill, and this pipeline, doesn’t even crack the top 10 on our to-do list. Rejecting this pipeline is exactly the type of stand the American people expect from their elected leaders.  If we do, our children will fondly remember the day the United States said ‘no’ to this pipeline and yes to clean energy and public health. I’ll close with the following message to my colleagues: If you are not a climate denier, don’t vote like one. If you believe in protecting the health and well-being of everyday Americans and their children, vote like it.  This body is capable of doing the right thing, and today the right thing is to vote “no”. I yield the floor. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-says-child-care-bill-will-help-hawaiians,Hirono Says Child Care Bill Will Help Hawaiians,2014-11-17,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Hirono Says Child Care Bill Will Help Hawaiians Each month more than 9,000 families in the islands rely on federally supported child-care services to help them work or acquire new skills. By:  Chad Blair Monday, November 17, 2014 Who says Congress can’t agree on anything? On Monday the U.S. Senate passed 88-1 the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 2014. Both of Hawaii’s senators voted in favor of the measure. Mike Lee of Utah was the lone Republican to vote against the measure, which provides federal funding to states to help parents afford child care while working or in job training programs. The measure already cleared the U.S. House of Representatives and now heads to the White House for President Obama’s expected signature. Sen. Hirono promoting quality early learning at an event on Capitol Hill. “For some parents, not having access to quality child care means they can’t work to support their family. This legislation allows families to balance the need to work with being able to ensure the health, safety and development of their keiki,” Hirono said via press release. Hirono added, “Each month more than 9,000 Hawaii families rely on federally supported child care services that allow them to work or to acquire new job skills. Strengthening and renewing the (child care) program is an important way to keep our families safe and strong, and I’m proud to vote in favor of this bill.” Hirono’s office says that last December, the senator partnered with Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to send a letter to Senate committee leaders urging them to ensure Native Hawaiian children continue to be served by the federal government. As well, an amendment by Hirono, Murkowski and Sen. Al Franken (D-MN) increases funding for current Native Hawaiian and mainland tribal child-care program. Read the entire piece at: http://www.civilbeat.com/2014/11/hirono-says-child-care-bill-will-help-hawaiians/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-commends-passage-of-child-care-bill-with-measures-for-native-hawaiian-children-,SENATOR HIRONO COMMENDS PASSAGE OF CHILD CARE BILL WITH MEASURES FOR NATIVE HAWAIIAN CHILDREN,2014-11-17,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO COMMENDS PASSAGE OF CHILD CARE BILL WITH MEASURES FOR NATIVE HAWAIIAN CHILDREN Hirono Pushed to Include Native Hawaiian Children in Improvements to Federal Child Care Benefits Monday, November 17, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono today voted in favor of the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act of 2014. The Senate passed the bill by a bipartisan vote of 88-1. The bill updates the 1990 CCDBG program, which provides federal funding to states to help parents afford child care while working or in job training programs. The measure now heads to the White House for President Obama’s signature. “For some parents, not having access to quality child care means they can’t work to support their family. This legislation allows families to balance the need to work with being able to ensure the health, safety, and development of their keiki,” said Senator Hirono. “Each month more than 9,000 Hawaii families rely on federally-supported child care services that allow them to work or to acquire new job skills. Strengthening and renewing the CCDBG program is an important way to keep our families safe and strong, and I’m proud to vote in favor of this bill.” In December 2013, Senator Hirono partnered with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to send a letter to Senate committee leaders urging them to ensure Native Hawaiian children continue to be served. With the support of Native Hawaiian and national Indian organizations, updated language proposed by Senator Hirono is included in the final legislation. In addition, an amendment by Senators Al Franken (D-MN), Hirono and Murkowski increases funding for current Native Hawaiian and mainland tribal child care programs. For its part, The Native Hawaiian Education Council submitted a letter of support for Hirono’s changes to the bill. Native Hawaiian child care programs include Alu Like, Pauahi Keiki Scholars, and Keiki o Ka Aina. Overall, the CCDBG Act of 2014 makes several improvements to the current child care law, including: Comprehensive background checks. Requires comprehensive background checks for all child care providers receiving federal funds, including state criminal and sex-offender registries and state-based abuse and neglect registries. Also adds inspection requirements for license-exempt child care providers. Better training for providers. Helps provide increased professional development, including child care college coursework or credentials. Also requires training for providers on business practices, First Aid and CPR, prevention of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), child abuse prevention, and culturally appropriate ways to serve Native Hawaiian children. Helps parents choose quality providers. Shares information on quality child care options and how families can access key resources; posts the results of health and safety inspections online. Hawaii parents and military families can search for child care options at PATCH Hawaii: www.patchhawaii.org.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-works-cdc-ensure-hawai-i-can-screen-ebola-state,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Works with CDC to Ensure Hawaii Can Screen for Ebola In-State,2014-11-13,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today announced a collaboration resulting in Hawaii having the ability to quickly and effectively test for Ebola in-state. Previously, the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) would need to send patient samples to mainland laboratories to test for the deadly Ebola virus. A few weeks ago, the congresswoman met with Ambassador Jimmy Kolker, Assistant Secretary for Global Affairs at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Dr. Toby Merlin, Director of the Division of Preparedness and Emerging Infections at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Bill Gallo, Associate Director for Insular Area Support at the CDC, to discuss the global challenges related to the Ebola virus, and the necessity for a properly equipped Hawaii testing facility. They resolved to supply the Hawaii Department of Health with resources to test for Ebola, supporting State Department of Health and medical personnel with a quicker testing turnaround time. Today, the DOH State Laboratories Division received and validated the U.S. Department of Defense-developed, CDC-deployed real time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction test for 2014 outbreak-associated Ebola Zaire Virus. The safety and well-being of Hawaii residents is my highest priority, and it's important that our state be equipped with the resources needed to quickly and effectively test those who may be suspected Ebola patients,said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. Ensuring our medical professionals are given the tools they need to protect themselves, and to serve the public at large, is of the greatest importance, and I'm glad to see that we were able to bring this testing capability to our islands."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141114192848/http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/news/press-releases/15-media-center/press-releases/357-rep-tulsi-gabbard-works-with-cdc-to-ensure-hawai-i-can-screen-for-ebola-in-state,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Works with CDC to Ensure Hawaii Can Screen for Ebola In-State,2014-11-13,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Works with CDC to Ensure Hawaiʻi Can Screen for Ebola In-State Washington, DC – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today announced a collaboration resulting in Hawaiʻi having the ability to quickly and effectively test for Ebola in-state.  Previously, the Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) would need to send patient samples to mainland laboratories to test for the deadly Ebola virus.  A few weeks ago, the congresswoman met with Ambassador Jimmy Kolker, Assistant Secretary for Global Affairs at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Dr. Toby Merlin, Director of the Division of Preparedness and Emerging Infections at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Bill Gallo, Associate Director for Insular Area Support at the CDC, to discuss the global challenges related to the Ebola virus, and the necessity for a properly equipped Hawaiʻi testing facility. They resolved to supply the Hawaiʻi Department of Health with resources to test for Ebola, supporting State Department of Health and medical personnel with a quicker testing turnaround time. Today, the DOH State Laboratories Division received and validated the U.S. Department of Defense-developed, CDC-deployed real time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction test for 2014 outbreak-associated Ebola Zaire Virus. “The safety and well-being of Hawaiʻi residents is my highest priority, and it’s important that our state be equipped with the resources needed to quickly and effectively test those who may be suspected Ebola patients,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.  “Ensuring our medical professionals are given the tools they need to protect themselves, and to serve the public at large, is of the greatest importance, and I’m glad to see that we were able to bring this testing capability to our islands."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-selects-15-for-schatz-seniors-internship-program,Schatz Selects 15 for Schatz Seniors Internship Program,2014-11-13,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz Selects 15 for Schatz Seniors Internship Program Internship Provides Hands-On Learning For Hawai‘i High School Seniors Thursday, November 13, 2014 Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) announced today the selection of 15 outstanding Hawai‘i high school students to participate in this year’s Schatz Seniors Internship Program. This year’s class represents eight public and seven private schools on Hawai‘i Island, Kauai, Maui, and Oahu. “Our Schatz Seniors are some of the most active and community-engaged high school students in our state,” Senator Schatz said.  “I look forward to working with this year’s class as they continue to develop useful civic leadership skills that they can apply in their schools and communities.” The Schatz Seniors internship program provides a hands-on opportunity to high school seniors interested in learning about the U.S. Senate. Students will work with Honolulu outreach staff and help to identify issues of interest in their schools and communities. They also attend and staff special events co-hosted by Senator Schatz. As part of the program, all students must maintain a 2.0 GPA. Interns were selected based on their community involvement, diversity of interests, and demonstrated leadership qualities. Selected high school students participating in this year’s Schatz Seniors Internship Program: Hawai‘i Island Shevalyn Yamaguchi (Pahoa), Kamehameha Schools Hawai‘i Michael Note (Kamuela), Parker School Kauai Kate MacHorek (Kalaheo), Kauai High School Maui Casey Sales-Salcedo (Kihei), Henry Perrine Baldwin High School Mikayla Lau (Wailuku), Kamehameha Schools Maui Oahu Adrien Magpoc (Kapolei), American Renaissance Academy Kenneth Go (Honolulu), Damien Memorial School Terry Lam, (Honolulu), ‘Iolani School Luc Lavatai (Mililani), ‘Iolani School Hannah Miller (Laie), Kahuku High and Intermediate School Sharissa Miyasato (Honolulu), Henry J. Kaiser High School Jordan Bell (Waianae), Kapolei High School Oliana Moe (Waianae), Admiral Arthur W. Radford High School Aina Katsikas (Honolulu), Sacred Hearts Academy Kiana Paakaula-Reis (Waialua), Waialua High and Intermediate School Applications for next year’s Schatz Seniors Internship Program will be available at www.schatz.senate.gov in August 2015. High school principals and counselors are welcome to request a presentation for their future seniors interested in participating in the internship program.  Please contact the Honolulu Office of Senator Schatz at (808) 523-2061 for more information. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-applauds-us-china-agreement-to-reduce-carbon-emissions,SENATOR HIRONO APPLAUDS U.S.-CHINA AGREEMENT TO REDUCE CARBON EMISSIONS,2014-11-12,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO APPLAUDS U.S.-CHINA AGREEMENT TO REDUCE CARBON EMISSIONS Wednesday, November 12, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono today applauded the joint announcement by President Barack Obama and People's Republic of China President Xi Jinping on the issue of climate change with an agreement to significantly reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced by each nation. ""This announcement demonstrates bold leadership from the United States and China, the world’s two largest economies and emitters of carbon emissions, and makes clear that we do not need to choose between the economy and the environment. Climate change is real and we must address it,” said Senator Hirono. “The opportunity for Hawaii is that we are a leader in clean energy solutions and we can share that expertise with others.” Together, the United States and the People's Republic of China account for more than one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions. The commitment announced by President Obama will reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 26-28% below 2005 levels by 2025. President Xi Jinping’s announcement marks the first time China has ever committed to capping their greenhouse gas emissions. Today’s announcement is also important for the negotiations leading up to a new international climate treaty in 2015. Additional information on the agreement can be found here: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2014/11/12/us-and-china-just-announced-important-new-actions-reduce-carbon-pollution",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-historic-us_-china-agreement-to-address-climate-change,Schatz Statement on Historic U.S. - China Agreement to Address Climate Change,2014-11-12,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz Statement on Historic U.S. - China Agreement to Address Climate Change Wednesday, November 12, 2014 Washington, DC – Today U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) released the following statement on the White House’s announcement of an agreement between President Obama and President Xi Jinping of China to address the global threat of climate change: “The groundbreaking climate change and clean energy cooperation agreement announced by President Obama and President Xi demonstrates the necessary leadership from the United States and China to continue addressing the global threat of climate change.  The agreement recognizes that as the two leading producers of greenhouse gas emissions, the United States and China must take short and long term measures to reduce the amount of carbon pollution and to encourage the development of clean energy.  By jointly agreeing to specific goals which will reduce carbon emissions by 2030 at the latest, the United States and China are poised to significantly bolster renewable energy research and technology and foster a new industrial revolution fueled by clean energy.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/view/2014/11/12/schatz-commends-historic-us-china-agreement-to-combat-climate-change,Schatz Commends Historic U.S.-China Agreement to Combat Climate Change,2014-11-12,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Honolulu 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Rm 7-212 Honolulu, HI, 96850 PHONE: (808) 523-2061 FAX: (808) 523-2065 Washington 722 Hart Senate Building Washington, DC 20510 PHONE: (202) 224-3934 FAX: (202) 228-1153",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-statement-patsy-takemoto-mink-being-named-presidential-medal,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Statement on Patsy Takemoto Mink Being Named Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipient,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Award is the highest civilian honor in the U.S. Honolulu Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today issued the following statement on the news that former Hawaii Congresswoman Patsy Takemoto Mink will posthumously receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The awards will be presented at the White House on November 24. Congresswoman Patsy Mink broke down long-standing barriers to create equal access to opportunities for women and girls, and courageously defied those who told her she couldn't succeed simply because she was a woman. In the 1940s, she was denied entrance to over a dozen medical schools for being a woman, but went on to attend law school and committed her entire life to changing the status quo. Many women and girls, and countless others who have benefited from her unwavering fight for equality, owe a debt of gratitude to Hawaii's Patsy Mink. As a testament to the importance of her hallmark Title IX legislation, her legacy lives on in the millions of girls who today are guaranteed equal opportunities in education. Congresswoman Mink is deeply deserving of the Presidential Media of Freedom, having demonstrated her selfless commitment to the betterment of our nation and increasing opportunities for all Americans. It is appropriate that this high honor will be given to one of Hawaii's great leaders and a true American trailblazer, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141111193659/http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/news/press-releases/15-media-center/press-releases/354-rep-tulsi-gabbard-statement-on-patsy-takemoto-mink-being-named-presidential-medal-of-freedom-recipient,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Statement on Patsy Takemoto Mink Being Named Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipient,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Statement on Patsy Takemoto Mink Being Named Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipient Award is the highest civilian honor in the U.S. Honolulu – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today issued the following statement on the news that former Hawai‘i Congresswoman Patsy Takemoto Mink will posthumously receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The awards will be presented at the White House on November 24.   “Congresswoman Patsy Mink broke down long-standing barriers to create equal access to opportunities for women and girls, and courageously defied those who told her she couldn’t succeed simply because she was a woman. In the 1940s, she was denied entrance to over a dozen medical schools for being a woman, but went on to attend law school and committed her entire life to changing the status quo. Many women and girls, and countless others who have benefited from her unwavering fight for equality, owe a debt of gratitude to Hawai‘i’s Patsy Mink. As a testament to the importance of her hallmark Title IX legislation, her legacy lives on in the millions of girls who today are guaranteed equal opportunities in education.   “Congresswoman Mink is deeply deserving of the Presidential Media of Freedom, having demonstrated her selfless commitment to the betterment of our nation and increasing opportunities for all Americans. It is appropriate that this high honor will be given to one of Hawai‘i’s great leaders and a true American trailblazer,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.   The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-headlines/congresswoman-patsy-t-mink-to-posthumously-receive-presidential-medal-of-freedom,Congresswoman Patsy T. Mink to Posthumously Receive Presidential Medal of Freedom,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington D.C. Office 730 Hart Senate Office Bldg. Washington, DC 20510",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/patsy-mink-to-receive-medal-of-freedom,Patsy Mink to receive Medal of Freedom,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Patsy Mink to receive Medal of Freedom Former congreswoman's legacy was Title IX legislation By:  Clayton Wakida Monday, November 10, 2014 HONOLULU —Former Hawaii Congresswoman Patsy Takemoto Mink will posthumously receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.  The awards will be presented at the White House on Nov. 24. Mink broke down long-standing barriers to create equal access to opportunities for women and girls, and courageously defied those who told her she couldn't succeed simply because she was a woman.       The late congresswoman was featured in recent documentary about the legislation's effects on female college athletics called ""Rise of the Wahine"". In the 1940s, she was denied entrance to over a dozen medical schools for being a woman, but went on to attend law school and committed her entire life to changing the status quo. Many women and girls, and countless others who have benefited from her unwavering fight for equality. As a testament to the importance of her hallmark Title IX legislation, her legacy lives on in the millions of girls who today are guaranteed equal opportunities in education. ""I look forward to presenting these nineteen bold, inspiring Americans with our Nation's highest civilian honor. From activists who fought for change to artists who explored the furthest reaches of our imagination; from scientists who kept America on the cutting edge to public servants who help write new chapters in our American story, these citizens have made extraordinary contributions to our country and the world,"" said President Barack Obama. ""This recognition for my friend, Patsy Mink, is well deserved and I am proud to have lent my early support to this effort. A visionary and a trailblazer, Patsy's legacy lives on in every female student and athlete in America who's been given a fair shot to compete in the classroom and on the playing field,"" said Sen. Mazie Hirono. ""We are proud that a keiki o ka aina, born and raised on Maui, who continues to inspire all of us, has received this high honor. I commend the Hawaii Bar Association for its nomination and organizing the effort that has made this honor a reality."" ""All of Hawai'i is deeply proud that Patsy Mink has been named to posthumously receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. As a daughter of the islands, she fought every day of her life to make real the possibilities of equal opportunity for all and the rights of minorities and women. Her remarkable achievements were hard earned – born of her unwavering resolve and the values she learned living in Hawai'i. We know that Patsy would share this award with all of us and especially with the countless women who steadfastly carried on with the legacy and the spirit of Patsy Mink,"" said Sen. Brian Schatz. ""Congresswoman Mink is deeply deserving of the Presidential Media of Freedom, having demonstrated her selfless commitment to the betterment of our nation and increasing opportunities for all Americans. It is appropriate that this high honor will be given to one of Hawai'i's great leaders and a true American trailblazer,"" said Gabbard. The Hawaii State Bar Association Civic Education Committee nominated Mink for the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Troy Andrade, Ruth Oh, and Ted Pettit, members of the HSBA Civic Education Committee, spearheaded the effort and provided the following statement: ""The Hawaii State Bar Association Civic Education Committee is extremely proud that President Obama is recognizing one of the greatest civic leaders of our time. No one is more deserving of the Presidential Medal of Freedom than Congresswoman Mink. The Committee looks forward to planning several events throughout 2014 and 2015 to celebrate Congresswoman Mink's life and legacy."" The other 2014 Medal of Freedom recipients are as follows: choreographer Alvin Ailey, author Isabel Allende, former TV news anchor Tom Brokaw; civil rights activists James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner; physicist Mildred Dresselhaus, Rep. John Dingell, Ethel Kennedy, writer Suzan Harjo, former Congressman Abner Mikva, former Congressman Edward Roybal, golfer Charles Sifford, economist Robert Solow, composer Stephen Sondheim, actress Meryl Streep, actress Marlo Thomas and singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/president-obama-announces-new-china-visa-policy,President Obama announces new China visa policy,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"President Obama announces new China visa policy By:  KHON2 News Staff Monday, November 10, 2014 The U.S. and China have reached a new reciprocal agreement concerning travel visa policies. President Obama made the announcement Monday while in Beijing for the summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. “That’s why I’m very pleased to announce that during my visit, the United States and China have agreed to implement a new arrangement for visas that will benefit everyone from students to tourists to businesses large and small,” he said. “Under the current arrangement, visas between our two countries last for only one year. Under the new arrangement, student and exchange visas will be extended to five years. Business and tourist visas will be extended to 10 years.” The visa extensions are expected to kick in Wednesday. U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) applauded the announcement. In July 2013, she led a bipartisan letter to urge Secretary of State John Kerry and Secretary of the Treasury Jacob Lew to push for extending travel visas for Chinese tourists during the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue. “The longer visas for Chinese travelers is a game-changer for Hawaii’s visitor industry and something I’ve pushed for a long time,” Hirono said. “China is the fastest growing tourism market in the world. With this change, Hawaii can expect more new and repeat visitors from China. Chinese visitors are Hawaii’s highest spending visitor group, which means a stronger economy and more local jobs.” The change is expected to be a boon for the U.S. economy and especially in Hawaii. The White House estimates increased tourism and business to create up to 440,000 American jobs by 2021 and generate nearly $85 billion in revenue. “This visa extension agreement between the U.S. and China will serve to strengthen China as a tourism channel which, of course, positively impacts businesses in Hawaii in terms of increased revenue and more jobs for our residents,” said Chamber of Commerce Hawaii President Sherry Menor-McNamara. “This agreement also bodes well for our manufacturing in Hawaii initiative through which we are working to increase our state’s export opportunities to reach the 1.3 billion market that China represents, as well as increase supplier opportunities for products manufactured in Hawaii.” U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) said that “Chinese visitors contributed more than $300 million to Hawaii’s economy last year and make up the fastest-growing market of outbound travel. With the U.S. attracting just two percent of visitors from China, this agreement will give us the opportunity to take advantage of the booming Chinese travel market and grow Hawaii’s visitor industry.” According to Schatz’s office, more than 130,000 visitors from China visited Hawaii last year, spending $328.6 million.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/-senator-hirono-praises-awarding-of-presidential-medal-of-freedom-to-hawaii-congresswoman-patsy-t-mink,SENATOR HIRONO PRAISES AWARDING OF PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM TO HAWAII CONGRESSWOMAN PATSY T. MINK,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO PRAISES AWARDING OF PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM TO HAWAII CONGRESSWOMAN PATSY T. MINK Monday, November 10, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Mazie K. Hirono praised today’s announcement that President Barack Obama has posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hawaii Congresswoman Patsy T. Mink. Among Congresswoman Mink’s numerous accomplishments during her decades of public service, she is most widely known for being one of the principal authors of Title IX, the federal law that protects students from gender discrimination in federally supported education programs and activities. Signed into law on June 23, 1972, the legislation has since been renamed the Patsy Takemoto Mink Equal Opportunity Education Act. “This recognition for my friend, Patsy Mink, is well deserved and I am proud to have lent my early support to this effort. A visionary and a trailblazer, Patsy’s legacy lives on in every female student and athlete in America who’s been given a fair shot to compete in the classroom and on the playing field,” said Senator Hirono. “We are proud that a keiki o ka aina, born and raised on Maui, who continues to inspire all of us, has received this high honor. I commend the Hawaii State Bar Association for its nomination and organizing the effort that has made this honor a reality.” The Hawaii State Bar Association (HSBA) Civic Education Committee nominated Congresswoman Pasty Takemoto Mink for the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Troy Andrade, Ruth Oh, and Ted Pettit, members of the HSBA Civic Education Committee, spearheaded the effort and provided the following statement. ""The Hawaii State Bar Association Civic Education Committee is extremely proud that President Obama is recognizing one of the greatest civic leaders of our time. No one is more deserving of the Presidential Medal of Freedom than Congresswoman Mink. The Committee looks forward to planning several events throughout 2014 and 2015 to celebrate Congresswoman Mink's life and legacy."" The Presidential Medal of Freedom, along with the Congressional Gold Medal, is one of the highest civilian awards in the United States.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-applauds-announcement-of-10-year-visas-between-the-us-and-china,SENATOR HIRONO APPLAUDS ANNOUNCEMENT OF 10-YEAR VISAS BETWEEN THE U.S. AND CHINA,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO APPLAUDS ANNOUNCEMENT OF 10-YEAR VISAS BETWEEN THE U.S. AND CHINA Hirono has been a strong advocate for longer visas to increase Chinese tourism to Hawaii Monday, November 10, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Senator Mazie K. Hirono today applauded President Obama’s announcement that the U.S. and China have agreed to mutually extend the validity period for travel visas between the two countries. Beginning this November 12, the maximum validity of short-term tourist and business visas will increase from one to ten years, and the maximum validity of student and exchange visas will increase from one to five years. In July 2013, Senator Hirono led a bipartisan letter to urge Secretary of State John Kerry and Secretary of the Treasury Jacob Lew to push for extending travel visas for Chinese tourists during the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue. “The longer visas for Chinese travelers is a game-changer for Hawaii’s visitor industry and something I’ve pushed for a long time,” said Senator Hirono. “China is the fastest growing tourism market in the world. With this change, Hawaii can expect more new and repeat visitors from China. Chinese visitors are Hawaii’s highest spending visitor group, which means a stronger economy and more local jobs.” “This visa extension agreement between the U.S. and China will serve to strengthen China as a tourism channel which, of course, positively impacts businesses in Hawaii in terms of increased revenue and more jobs for our residents,” said Chamber of Commerce Hawaii President Sherry Menor-McNamara. “This agreement also bodes well for our manufacturing in Hawaii initiative through which we are working to increase our state’s export opportunities to reach the 1.3 billion market that China represents, as well as increase supplier opportunities for products manufactured in Hawaii.” Hirono long championed measures to boost tourism to Hawaii. In April 2013, the Senate immigration bill included key provisions from Senator Hirono’s VISIT USA Act, a bipartisan bill she introduced while serving in the U.S. House of Representatives that included longer visas for Chinese visitors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/new-10-year-visas-for-visitors-from-china-to-promote-tourism-and-travel-to-hawaii,New 10-Year Visas for Visitors from China to Promote Tourism and Travel to Hawaii,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"New 10-Year Visas for Visitors from China to Promote Tourism and Travel to Hawaii Visitors from China Contributed More Than $300 Million to Hawai‘i’s Economy in 2013 Monday, November 10, 2014 Honolulu, HI – Today, President Obama announced the United States and the People’s Republic of China have agreed to increase the validity period of short-term visas for tourists and business travelers from one to ten years, the longest validity period possible under U.S. law.  In addition, both countries agreed to extend the validity period of student and exchange visas from one to five years.  U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Tourism, Competitiveness, and Innovation, applauded the agreement for its potential to boost visitation to Hawai‘i. “Chinese visitors contributed more than $300 million to Hawai‘i’s economy last year and make up the fastest-growing market of outbound travel,” Senator Schatz said.  “With the U.S. attracting just two percent of visitors from China, this agreement will give us the opportunity to take advantage of the booming Chinese travel market and grow Hawai‘i’s visitor industry.”   Last year, more than 130,000 visitors from China visited Hawai‘i, spending $328.6 million, and supporting thousands of local jobs.  It is estimated that visitors to the United States from China will grow to 7.3 million in 2021 and contribute $85 billion a year to the United States economy. As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Tourism, Innovation, and Competitiveness, Senator Schatz held hearings this year on the state of the U.S. tourism and travel industry and explored ways to improve the visa system and help the government achieve its goal of attracting 100 million visitors annually by 2021.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-lauds-presidential-medal-of-freedom-award-to-patsy-mink,Schatz Lauds Presidential Medal of Freedom Award to Patsy Mink,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz Lauds Presidential Medal of Freedom Award to Patsy Mink Monday, November 10, 2014 Honolulu, HI – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) applauded President Barack Obama’s announcement that the late Congresswoman Patsy Mink will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom Award on November 24: “All of Hawai‘i is deeply proud that Patsy Mink has been named to posthumously receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.  As a daughter of the islands, she fought every day of her life to make real the possibilities of equal opportunity for all and the rights of minorities and women. Her remarkable achievements were hard earned – born of her unwavering resolve and the values she learned living in Hawai‘i.  We know that Patsy would share this award with all of us and especially with the countless women who steadfastly carried on with the legacy and the spirit of Patsy Mink.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/honolulu-star-advertiser-va-makes-progress-but-work-isnt-done,"VA makes progress, but work isn't done",2014-11-09,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"VA makes progress, but work isn't done By:  U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono Honolulu Star-Advertiser Sunday, November 9, 2014 Veterans Day is a time to remember and honor the contributions and sacrifices of our nation's veterans. Our thanks to the 120,000 veterans in Hawaii. In August, I chaired a Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee field hearing on the state of veterans' health care in Hawaii. At the hearing, Oahu veteran Victor Craft testified: ""The veteran is not a piece of paper to be shuffled through a never-ending corridor of administration. They are people."" Victor is right. We need to do a better job of keeping our commitment to veterans. Earlier this year, it was revealed through a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) audit the wait time for new patient primary care appointments on Oahu was on average 145 days -- longer than anywhere else in the nation. The VA now says wait times have been reduced to 35 days. Progress has been made, but for me, the true test is what veterans tell me about their experiences with the VA. Our servicemen and women deserve better. My colleagues on the committee and I wrote the bipartisan Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act. This landmark law begins making necessary reforms to the VA to restore trust and put veterans first. Today, this legislation is being implemented by the VA, and important health care provisions of that law are beginning to become reality, such as: » The first Veterans Choice Cards were just mailed on Nov. 5, to eligible veterans to access private care. These cards were created to ensure access for veterans who live 40 miles or more from a VA health facility or need to travel by air and are unable to obtain an appointment within 30 days. » New penalties for VA employees who falsify data regarding access to care or quality measures. » Independent assessments to provide VA a way to transparently review vital programs, organizations and business practices to make VA more accountable to veterans. I was able to include provisions in the bill that will expand access to services and facilities for Hawaii's veterans. The VA is starting the planning process for the VA Advance Leeward Outpatient Healthcare Access Center, which was authorized under the law. The law also includes authority for the VA to enter into contracts or agreements with the Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems for reimbursement of direct care services. I'll push for these provisions to be implemented. The difficulties within the VA health care system did not begin this year and fixing them will take more than one law. Since being sworn into the U.S. Senate in 2013, I've met with and listened to veterans across the state. Among the common challenges they mention include the need for better communication and collaboration with the VA, timely access to health care throughout all the islands, and improving the transition to civilian life. These three critical issues have guided my priorities for Hawaii's veterans. In addition to supporting legislation that benefits our veterans, I have created a monthly veterans' newsletter and worked with the Honolulu Regional VA Benefits Office and VA Pacific Islands Health Care System to increase VA benefits workshops across the state. In observance of this Veterans Day on Tuesday, we need to restore the trust of our veterans through actions and our sustained commitment to ensure that positive changes at the VA occur. These are the best ways to thank those who have served.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/president-obama-issues-major-disaster-declaration-for-the-state-of-hawaii,President Obama Issues Major Disaster Declaration for the State of Hawaii,2014-11-03,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"President Obama Issues Major Disaster Declaration for the State of Hawaii Monday, November 3, 2014 Hilo, HI – President Obama issued a major disaster declaration for the State of Hawai‘i today, activating the release of federal funds to help with the recovery effort from the Puu Oo Volcanic Eruption and Lava Flow that began September 4, 2014. “Pahoa and its people are resilient. Our continued efforts to help this community, particularly those impacted by the ongoing lava flow, will now be supplemented by much-needed federal funds,"" Senator Schatz said.  “I will continue to work with Mayor Kenoi and federal officials to do everything in my power to ensure that the people of Pahoa receive the help they need. Together we will get through this.” The disaster declaration will provide Hawai‘i County with assistance for emergency protective measures and work, and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities under the Public Assistance program. The declaration also provides assistance for actions taken to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-headlines/us-army-opens-new-warrior-transition-battalion-center-and-family-assistance-center,U.S. Army Opens New Warrior Transition Battalion Center and Family Assistance Center,2014-10-31,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Friday, October 31, 2014 U.S. Army Opens New Warrior Transition Battalion Center and Family Assistance Center WAHIAWA, HI - Senator Hirono delivered remarks at the opening of the Warrior Transition Battalion’s new barracks and Soldier Family Assistance Center Administrative Building at Schofield Barracks in Wahiawa. The Senator toured the state-of-the-art complex and met with the professionals who will provide much-needed services to returning soldiers, such as primary care managers, nurse case managers, social workers, physical therapists and occupational therapists. The Warrior Transition Battalion Barracks is built to accommodate 120 soldiers and is designed to meet the needs of servicemembers who will require at least six months of complex medical care and rehabilitation. The new facilities feature innovative construction and upgrades including solar water heating and high-efficiency appliances. It is also photovoltaic-ready. Senator Hirono has long advocated for advancing military construction projects and family support programs. In April 2013, the Senator toured the facilities and met with soldiers at Schofield Barracks. Upon her return to Washington, D.C., Senator Hirono discussed the outdated facilities at Schofield Barracks with the Secretary of the Army, urging support for new programs and benefits for servicemembers and their families.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-hirono-statement-on-the-passing-of-robert-richards-midkiff,SENATOR HIRONO STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF ROBERT RICHARDS MIDKIFF,2014-10-31,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SENATOR HIRONO STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF ROBERT RICHARDS MIDKIFF Friday, October 31, 2014 HONOLULU – Senator Mazie K. Hirono released the following statement on the passing of Hawaii business leader and philanthropist, Robert Richards Midkiff. “I am saddened to learn of the passing of my longtime friend, Bob Midkiff. Bob was a true champion for early education in Hawaii. He and I worked together on this key issue because we both recognized that a sound education, starting from preschool, lays the foundation for a child’s success in school and in life. “With the passing of Bob Midkiff, we lost an individual with tremendous business acumen and a man who understood the value of giving back to the community.  “Bob is considered the father of ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) in Hawaii. This is important because ESOPs allow employees to benefit from the profits of the business.  Bob knew that employee ownership created the opportunity to increase production and profitability.  “I will miss his leadership and friendship.  I extend my deepest sympathies to the Midkiff ohana.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bit.ly/2jAUdAP,"PHOTOS: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Meets with Hawaii Island Mayor, Residents, Business Owners in Phoa Inches from Edge of Kilauea Lava Flow",2014-10-29,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,bit.ly,,,legacy,"PHOTOS: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Meets with Hawaiʻi Island Mayor, Residents, Business Owners in Pāhoa Inches from Edge of Kilauea Lava Flow Today in Pāhoa, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) has been on the ground and in the air with Hawaiʻi Island Mayor Billy Kenoi as they inspect the progress of the Kilauea Lava Flow, assess the damage it has caused to Pāhoa property and infrastructure, and offer support to area residents and business owners.  They toured the path of the lava flow by helicopter from the vent to the tip, and then walked from Pāhoa Town to the edge of the lava flow on Mel Sugimoto’s property, where the lava has already destroyed parts of his macadamia nut field and is less than 100 yards from his home. This morning, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard met with Hawaiʻi National Guard troops to thank them for volunteering to assist residents and officials who are dealing with the damaging effects of the lava flow.  She also stopped by the Pāhoa Community Center to review the resources available to residents and thank the staff there.  The congresswoman will be walking through Pāhoa Town to meet with business owners and support those in need.     Photos from today’s lava flow inspections and meetings are available here for download.   For more information, please contact Heather Fluit at (202) 738-0126 or Erika Tsuji at (808) 286-0803. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/media-advisory-rep-tulsi-gabbard-tour-maui-businesses-honor-keiki-and-dedicate,"MEDIA ADVISORY: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to Tour Maui Businesses, Honor Keiki, and Dedicate Warrior Transition Battalion Facility",2014-10-29,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Advisory for October 30-31, 2014 Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today announced she will be touring local businesses and honoring keiki on Maui, and speaking at the dedication ceremony of the Warrior Transition Battalion at Schofield Barracks this week. Thursday, October 30: Maui Day-of Contact: Erika Tsuji, (808) 286-0803 1:15 p.m.: Meet and greet with employees and leadership at Maui Soda & Ice Works to get a better understanding of their business model and local operations. Where: 918 Lower Main Street, Wailuku 2:00 p.m.: Meet and greet with leaders during a tour of Pepsi Beverages Co. to learn about their business and its local operation. Where: 1162 Lower Main Street, Wailuku 2:45 p.m.: Honor the 2014 Youth of the Year finalists from the Maui Boys & Girls Club; tour the Paukukalo Clubhouse. Where: Paukukalo Clubhouse, 657 Kaumualii Street, Wailuku 3:45 p.m.: Tour the Maui Diagnostic Imaging facility to see its state-of-the-art technology, meet with the physicians and staff, and learn about the services offered to Maui residents. Where: 425 Kloa Street, Suite 102, Kahului Friday, October 31: Oahu Day-of Contact: Erika Tsuji, (808) 286-0803 9:50 a.m.: Deliver remarks at the Warrior Transition Battalion facility dedication ceremony. Note: Please contact Erika Tsuji immediately if you are interested in attending. Where: Schofield Barracks, Building 663, adjacent to PX parking lot between clinic and PX. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/photos-rep-tulsi-gabbard-meets-hawai-i-island-mayor-residents-business-owners-p,"PHOTOS: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Meets with Hawaii Island Mayor, Residents, Business Owners in Phoa Inches from Edge of Kilauea Lava Flow",2014-10-29,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today in Pahoa, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) has been on the ground and in the air with Hawaii Island Mayor Billy Kenoi as they inspect the progress of the Kilauea Lava Flow, assess the damage it has caused to Pahoa property and infrastructure, and offer support to area residents and business owners. They toured the path of the lava flow by helicopter from the vent to the tip, and then walked from Pahoa Town to the edge of the lava flow on Mel Sugimoto's property, where the lava has already destroyed parts of his macadamia nut field and is less than 100 yards from his home. This morning, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard met with Hawaii National Guard troops to thank them for volunteering to assist residents and officials who are dealing with the damaging effects of the lava flow. She also stopped by the Pahoa Community Center to review the resources available to residents and thank the staff there. The congresswoman will be walking through Phoa Town to meet with business owners and support those in need. Photos from today's lava flow inspections and meetings are available here for download. For more information, please contact Heather Fluit at (202) 738-0126 or Erika Tsuji at (808) 286-0803. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030191907/http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/news/press-releases/15-media-center/press-releases/352-media-advisory-rep-tulsi-gabbard-to-tour-maui-businesses-honor-keiki-and-dedicate-warrior-transition-battalion-facility,"MEDIA ADVISORY: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to Tour Maui Businesses, Honor Keiki, and Dedicate Warrior Transition Battalion Facility",2014-10-29,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"MEDIA ADVISORY: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to Tour Maui Businesses, Honor Keiki, and Dedicate Warrior Transition Battalion Facility Media Advisory for October 30-31, 2014 – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today announced she will be touring local businesses and honoring keiki on Maui, and speaking at the dedication ceremony of the Warrior Transition Battalion at Schofield Barracks this week. Thursday, October 30: Maui Day-of Contact: Erika Tsuji, (808) 286-0803 1:15 p.m.:  Meet and greet with employees and leadership at Maui Soda & Ice Works to get a better understanding of their business model and local operations. Where:  918 Lower Main Street, Wailuku 2:00 p.m.:  Meet and greet with leaders during a tour of Pepsi Beverages Co. to learn about their business and its local operation. Where: 1162 Lower Main Street, Wailuku 2:45 p.m.:  Honor the 2014 “Youth of the Year” finalists from the Maui Boys & Girls Club; tour the Paukukalo Clubhouse. Where: Paukukalo Clubhouse, 657 Kaumuali‘i Street, Wailuku 3:45 p.m.:  Tour the Maui Diagnostic Imaging facility to see its state-of-the-art technology, meet with the physicians and staff, and learn about the services offered to Maui residents. Where: 425 Kōloa Street, Suite 102, Kahului   Friday, October 31: Oʻahu Day-of Contact: Erika Tsuji, (808) 286-0803 9:50 a.m.:  Deliver remarks at the Warrior Transition Battalion facility dedication ceremony.  Note:  Please contact Erika Tsuji immediately if you are interested in attending. Where:  Schofield Barracks, Building 663, adjacent to PX parking lot between clinic and PX.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/us-postal-service-unveils-puna-lava-flow-contingency-plans,U.S. POSTAL SERVICE UNVEILS PUNA LAVA FLOW CONTINGENCY PLANS,2014-10-29,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. POSTAL SERVICE UNVEILS PUNA LAVA FLOW CONTINGENCY PLANS Wednesday, October 29, 2014 The United States Postal Service issued the following update for Hawaii Island residents affected by the lava flow: The Pahoa Post Office will remain open for business as long as it can operate without jeopardizing the safety or security of our postal employees, our customers and the mail. U.S. Postal Service (USPS) management is in close contact with Hawaii County civil defense authorities and managers of potentially affected Hawaii island Post Offices. Contingency plans are being guided by general civil defense public safety directives and specific concerns over the safety of USPS employees. If the Pahoa Post Office is evacuated, the Hilo Airport Post Office will likely serve as a short-term base of operations. USPS is making arrangements to lease an alternate facility nearer to Pahoa that can be operational soon after an evacuation. USPS is closely monitoring the impact to air quality of sulfuric dioxide emissions from the lava and smoke from debris fires. Adjustments will be made to postal operations as needed to ensure that employee safety is not compromised. Contingency plans will likely evolve as the lava flow continues to impact access to Pahoa and the lives of its residents. Plans must consider employee safety concerns, the availability of resources and the U.S. Postal Service’s commitment to customer service. The bottom line is that, regardless of how this lava flow event plays out, the mail will be delivered. We will find a way to get it done.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/new-fishing-rule-to-ensure-fresh-supply-of-sashimi-through-the-holidays,New Fishing Rule to Ensure Fresh Supply of Sashimi Through the Holidays,2014-10-24,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"New Fishing Rule to Ensure Fresh Supply of Sashimi Through the Holidays Schatz worked with Hawai‘i Longliners and NOAA on Rule to Access Portions of CNMI’s Ahi Catch Friday, October 24, 2014 Honolulu, HI – Today U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) announced that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has approved Amendment 7, a rule proposed by the Western Pacific Fishery Management Council to establish a management framework and process for specifying fishing catch and accountability measures for fisheries in the U.S. Pacific territories. Senator Schatz successfully pressed Hawai‘i’s case to the Senate Appropriations Committee, and as a result, appropriations legislation for Fiscal Year 2014 urged NOAA to take action.  Schatz continued to work with NOAA, the Hawai‘i Longline Association, and the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council on a solution that allows the longliners to keep fishing year round in a responsible, sustainable way and increase ahi catch for the rest of the year.  “Sharing sashimi with family over the holidays is a valued tradition in Hawai‘i.”  Senator Schatz said.  “For many years, the threat of a shortage during the holidays has caused higher prices for families and less productivity for our fishermen.  That is why I am so pleased we were able to work with both NOAA and the Hawai‘i longliners on a solution to increase our ahi catch, ensuring Hawai‘i families won’t experience any shortages of sashimi when ringing in the New Year.” The framework would authorize the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) to allocate a portion of its ahi quota to Hawai‘i’s longline fleet. Under the current regime, the longline fleet would likely exhaust its own ahi tuna quota in November, just before the holiday season, when demand spikes.  Amendment 7 allows Hawai‘i’s fleet contract with the CNMI to use a portion of its unused quota.  By combining the unused quota from the CNMI with its own, Hawai‘i’s fleet can remain active all year round, ensuring the state’s supply of the seafood delicacy for the remainder of the year.  The rule also serves as a workable blueprint for similar action in the coming years. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/sba-offers-disaster-assistance-to-hawaii-residents-and-businesses-affected-by-tropical-storm-iselle,SBA OFFERS DISASTER ASSISTANCE TO HAWAII RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES AFFECTED BY TROPICAL STORM ISELLE,2014-10-22,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SBA OFFERS DISASTER ASSISTANCE TO HAWAII RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES AFFECTED BY TROPICAL STORM ISELLE Wednesday, October 22, 2014 SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to Hawaii residents and business owners affected by Tropical Storm Iselle that occurred August 7 - 9, 2014, U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet announced today.  SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster following the October 16 denial of the state’s appeal for a major disaster declaration. The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in Hawaii County. “The U. S. Small Business Administration is strongly committed to providing Hawaii with the most effective and customer-focused response possible, and we will be there to provide access to federal disaster loans to help finance recovery for residents and businesses affected by the disaster,” said Contreras-Sweet.  “Getting our businesses and communities up and running after a disaster is our highest priority at SBA.” “Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations whose property was damaged or destroyed by this disaster,” said SBA’s Hawaii District Director Jane A. Sawyer.  “Beginning today, October 22, at 11 am SBA representatives will be on hand at the following SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application,” Sawyer continued.  The center will be open on the days and times indicated.  No appointment is necessary.  HAWAII COUNTY Disaster Loan Outreach Center Pahoa Community Center 15-2910 Kauhale Street Pahoa, HI 96778 Opens Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 11 am Mondays – Fridays, 8 am to 4 pm Closes Thursday, Nov. 6 at 4 pm Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate.  Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property. Businesses of any size and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.  SBA can also lend additional funds to homeowners and businesses to help with the cost of making improvements that protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future. For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster.  EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage. Interest rates can be as low as 2.063 percent for homeowners and renters, 2.625 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 4 percent for businesses, with terms up to 30 years.  Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition. Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.  Disaster loan information and application forms are also available from SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling (800) 659-2955 or e-mailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.  Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call (800) 877-8339.  For more information about SBA’s disaster assistance programs, visit http://www.sba.gov/disaster.  The filing deadline to return applications for property damage is December 22, 2014.  The deadline to return economic injury applications is July 22, 2015.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/media-advisory-rep-tulsi-gabbard-honor-female-business-leaders-and-job-creators,MEDIA ADVISORY: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to Honor Female Business Leaders and Job Creators in Hawaii,2014-10-21,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Advisory for October 22-24, 2014This week, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) will deliver keynote addresses at Hawaii events in support of women leadership positions in the business sector and to promote job creation, infrastructure improvements, and boosting the economy. She will also meet with a Kona accelerator that recently earned accolades from the U.S. Small Business Administration to recognize their work in support of entrepreneurship, tour the studio, and meet with the staff. DETAILS: Wednesday, October 22: Oahu 9am -- Meet with Ambassador Jimmy Kolker, Assistant Secretary for Global Affairs at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, to discuss the status of Ebola in the United States, methods to keep the disease from entering Hawaii and the country, and how to contain confirmed cases. Note: This meeting is closed to press. Thursday, October 23: Oahu 11:45am -- Honor Hawaii's military, federal, state, and county law enforcement and security personnel at the 30th Annual Top Cop Awards Banquet. Where:Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii, Manoa Grand Ballroom, 2454 S. Beretania Street, Honolulu 1:00pm -- Deliver keynote address at the 2014 Wahine Forum, Hawaii's largest leadership and career development conference for women, to share the importance of elevating the role of women in businesses and in the community at-large. Where:Hilton Hawaiian Village, Coral Ballroom, 2005 Kalia Road, Waikiki Friday, October 24: Hawaii Island 9:30am -- Tour the Global Virtual Studio (GVS) Transmedia Accelerator, a Kona-based initiative that empowers creative entrepreneurs to launch original, future-proof, impacting franchises for wide commercial offices; honor GVS Transmedia Accelerator for being the only Hawaii accelerator to earn one of fifty U.S. Small Business Administration awards of more than 800 applicants. Where:GVS Transmedia Accelerator Studio, Kanalani Street, Kalaoa 12:45pm -- Deliver keynote remarks at the American Council of Engineering Companies' 2014 Fall Conference; explain the important role small businesses, the labor industry, and engineering firms play locally and nationally in securing jobs, improving infrastructure, and boosting the economy. Where: Hilton Waikoloa Village, Grand Ballroom, 69-425 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa Village ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141024003811/http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/news/press-releases/15-media-center/press-releases/351-media-advisory-rep-tulsi-gabbard-to-honor-female-business-leaders-and-job-creators-in-hawai-i,MEDIA ADVISORY: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to Honor Female Business Leaders and Job Creators in Hawaii,2014-10-21,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"MEDIA ADVISORY: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to Honor Female Business Leaders and Job Creators in Hawai‘i Media Advisory for October 22-24, 2014—This week, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) will deliver keynote addresses at Hawaiʻi events in support of women leadership positions in the business sector and to promote job creation, infrastructure improvements, and boosting the economy.  She will also meet with a Kona accelerator that recently earned accolades from the U.S. Small Business Administration to recognize their work in support of entrepreneurship, tour the studio, and meet with the staff. DETAILS: Wednesday, October 22:  Oʻahu 9am -- Meet with Ambassador Jimmy Kolker, Assistant Secretary for Global Affairs at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, to discuss the status of Ebola in the United States, methods to keep the disease from entering Hawaiʻi and the country, and how to contain confirmed cases. Note: This meeting is closed to press.   Thursday, October 23:  Oʻahu 11:45am -- Honor Hawaii's military, federal, state, and county law enforcement and security personnel at the 30th Annual “Top Cop” Awards Banquet. Where: Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaiʻi, Manoa Grand Ballroom, 2454 S. Beretania Street, Honolulu 1:00pm -- Deliver keynote address at the 2014 Wahine Forum, Hawaii's largest leadership and career development conference for women, to share the importance of elevating the role of women in businesses and in the community at-large. Where: Hilton Hawaiian Village, Coral Ballroom, 2005 Kalia Road, Waikiki Friday, October 24:  Hawaiʻi Island 9:30am -- Tour the Global Virtual Studio (GVS) Transmedia Accelerator, a Kona-based initiative that empowers creative entrepreneurs to launch original, future-proof, impacting franchises for wide commercial offices; honor GVS Transmedia Accelerator for being the only Hawaiʻi accelerator to earn one of fifty U.S. Small Business Administration awards of more than 800 applicants. Where: GVS Transmedia Accelerator Studio, Kanalani Street, Kalaoa 12:45pm -- Deliver keynote remarks at the American Council of Engineering Companies’ 2014 Fall Conference; explain the important role small businesses, the labor industry, and engineering firms play locally and nationally in securing jobs, improving infrastructure, and boosting the economy. Where: Hilton Waikoloa Village, Grand Ballroom, 69-425 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa Village     ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-announces-progress-on-chain-of-craters-road-expansion,Schatz Announces Progress on Chain of Craters Road Expansion,2014-10-21,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Brian Schatz,S001194,www.schatz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Schatz Announces Progress on Chain of Craters Road Expansion National Park Service and Hawai‘i County Finalize an Agreement to Begin Construction on 2-Lane Chain of Craters Road Tuesday, October 21, 2014 Honolulu, HI – Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) announced that Hawai‘i County and the National Park Service have reached a formal agreement to begin construction that will restore Chain of Craters Road to include two lanes of traffic.  Construction is scheduled to begin on Friday, October 24th. “I am pleased to see construction will soon begin on the expansion of Chain of Craters Road,” Senator Schatz said.  “The two-lane road is critical to the Puna community and will ensure that residents have access to the rest of the Big Island.  I will continue to work with Mayor Kenoi and the National Park Service to ensure construction remains on track and moving forward.” Following the recent Kilauea lava event, Senator Schatz worked with federal and local officials to restore Chain of Craters Road to include two lanes of traffic at its original width of 22 feet. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-calls-cdc-increase-duration-incubation-period-prevent-spread,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Calls on the CDC to Increase Duration of Incubation Period to Prevent the Spread of Ebola in the U.S.,2014-10-19,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Honolulu Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02)today called for the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to implement stricter incubation guidelines for individuals who have been in contact with patients confirmed or suspected to have the Ebola virus. She is calling for the CDC to increase the quarantine and restriction period of such persons from the current 21-day standard to 42 days,based on the latest scientific studies and the World Health Organization (WHO) report that the incubation period for the deadly Ebola virus can extend as long as 42 days. I strongly recommend that the CDC follow the WHO guidelines of a 42-day incubation period, which is based on the latest scientific findingsit is far better to err on the side of caution, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. The forty-eight individuals who had direct contact with Thomas Duncan, the first person to die of Ebola in the United States, should extend their quarantine and protective order to 42 daysnot 21 days as the CDC currently mandates. ""We have seen how the CDC's protocols are out of date and are now being revised. Likewise, the research the CDC is basing its 21-day standard on is outdated, and therefore its policies regarding quarantine or the monitoring of individuals who have been directly exposed to Ebola patients need to be updated. Because recent reports by the WHO have established that the incubation period for the Ebola virus can extend as long as 42 days, the CDC needs to err on the side of caution and enforce this same standard to prevent further spread of the disease in the United States."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141024003819/http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/news/press-releases/15-media-center/press-releases/350-rep-tulsi-gabbard-calls-on-the-cdc-to-increase-duration-of-incubation-period-to-prevent-the-spread-of-ebola-in-the-u-s,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Calls on the CDC to Increase Duration of Incubation Period to Prevent the Spread of Ebola in the U.S.,2014-10-19,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Calls on the CDC to Increase Duration of Incubation Period to Prevent the Spread of Ebola in the U.S. Honolulu – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02)today called for the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to implement stricter incubation guidelines for individuals who have been in contact with patients confirmed or suspected to have the Ebola virus.  She is calling for the CDC to increase the quarantine and restriction period of such persons from the current 21-day standard to 42 days, based on the latest scientific studies and the World Health Organization (WHO) report that the incubation period for the deadly Ebola virus can extend as long as 42 days. “I strongly recommend that the CDC follow the WHO guidelines of a 42-day incubation period, which is based on the latest scientific findings—it is far better to err on the side of caution,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.  “The forty-eight individuals who had direct contact with Thomas Duncan, the first person to die of Ebola in the United States, should extend their quarantine and protective order to 42 days—not 21 days as the CDC currently mandates. ""We have seen how the CDC’s protocols are out of date and are now being revised. Likewise, the research the CDC is basing its 21-day standard on is outdated, and therefore its policies regarding quarantine or the monitoring of individuals who have been directly exposed to Ebola patients need to be updated.  Because recent reports by the WHO have established that the incubation period for the Ebola virus can extend as long as 42 days, the CDC needs to err on the side of caution and enforce this same standard to prevent further spread of the disease in the United States."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-tulsi-gabbard-calls-immediate-measures-stop-further-spread-ebola-us,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Calls for Immediate Measures to Stop Further Spread of Ebola in U.S.,2014-10-17,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Honolulu Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today called for the immediate suspension of visas for citizens of Ebola-stricken West African nations as well as flights from those countries into the US. Recent mistakes have revealed that the U.S. public health system is clearly not fully prepared to combat Ebola and prevent its spread in the United States, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. We cannot stand idly by while this heart-breaking epidemic rages in West Africa, already claiming thousands of lives. There are immediate steps we must take to ensure the safety of the American people, and ensure we can maintain our support for West African nations that are overwhelmed by this crisis. First, we need to immediately suspend commercial flights from the West African nations into the United States, as well as suspend visas for their passport holders, until we can ensure that our health facilities are adequately prepared. This temporary suspension will give our healthcare leaders the time and space to adequately prepare our health system to handle Ebola cases, and help us to stay focused on the prevention efforts in West Africa. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard also voiced concerns about the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) handling of the few cases that have already struck in the U.S., saying, The CDC and some healthcare providers have already mishandled several Ebola cases. We cannot afford more mistakes. We should be taking every precaution to protect our people, beginning with our healthcare workers. Just look at the domino effect that just one sick person from West Africa has had. We're still scrambling to deal with that episode. Just imagine the chaos that will occur if even more such sick individuals enter the country. Ultimately, we need to be able to focus on our efforts to contain the spread of Ebola in West Africa. I strongly support the steps we've already taken to provide assistance overseas, but if we are increasingly distracted by Ebola cases in the U.S., we cannot fully focus on the heart of where this epidemic has struck. The impact and spread of Ebola thus far is absolutely devastating; we need to take every proactive measure we have available to stop this virus in its tracks. Claims that we need to keep commercial flights open for healthcare workers and supplies to be ferried into these countries are absurd. During this period, essential personnel and equipment can be transported in and out of these countries via charter flights, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard added. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141024003826/http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/news/press-releases/15-media-center/press-releases/349-rep-tulsi-gabbard-calls-for-immediate-measures-to-stop-further-spread-of-ebola-in-u-s,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Calls for Immediate Measures to Stop Further Spread of Ebola in U.S.,2014-10-17,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Calls for Immediate Measures to Stop Further Spread of Ebola in U.S. Honolulu – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today called for the immediate suspension of visas for citizens of Ebola-stricken West African nations as well as flights from those countries into the US.   “Recent mistakes have revealed that the U.S. public health system is clearly not fully prepared to combat Ebola and prevent its spread in the United States,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. “We cannot stand idly by while this heart-breaking epidemic rages in West Africa, already claiming thousands of lives. There are immediate steps we must take to ensure the safety of the American people, and ensure we can maintain our support for West African nations that are overwhelmed by this crisis. First, we need to immediately suspend commercial flights from the West African nations into the United States, as well as suspend visas for their passport holders, until we can ensure that our health facilities are adequately prepared. This temporary suspension will give our healthcare leaders the time and space to adequately prepare our health system to handle Ebola cases, and help us to stay focused on the prevention efforts in West Africa.”   Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard also voiced concerns about the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) handling of the few cases that have already struck in the U.S., saying, “The CDC and some healthcare providers have already mishandled several Ebola cases. We cannot afford more mistakes. We should be taking every precaution to protect our people, beginning with our healthcare workers.   “Just look at the domino effect that just one sick person from West Africa has had. We’re still scrambling to deal with that episode. Just imagine the chaos that will occur if even more such sick individuals enter the country.   “Ultimately, we need to be able to focus on our efforts to contain the spread of Ebola in West Africa. I strongly support the steps we’ve already taken to provide assistance overseas, but if we are increasingly distracted by Ebola cases in the U.S., we cannot fully focus on the heart of where this epidemic has struck. The impact and spread of Ebola thus far is absolutely devastating; we need to take every proactive measure we have available to stop this virus in its tracks.   “Claims that we need to keep commercial flights open for healthcare workers and supplies to be ferried into these countries are absurd.  During this period, essential personnel and equipment can be transported in and out of these countries via charter flights,” Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard added. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/collaboration-is-advocated-to-aid-victims-of-duress,Collaboration is advocated to aid victims of duress,2014-10-17,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Collaboration is advocated to aid victims of duress By:  B.J. Reyes Friday, October 17, 2014 Facing the reality of budget cuts and limited funding, strengthening the collaboration between civilian and military service providers is key to ensuring that domestic violence victims receive the help they need, U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono said Thursday. Hirono, speaking after holding a U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee field hearing at the state Capitol, said she believes domestic violence crimes are underreported. ""With resources being what they are, this is an effort to move forward with a collaboration model that includes the military because their people are accessing civilian service providers,"" she said. … Read the entire piece at: http://www.staradvertiser.com/newspremium/20141017__Collaboration_is_advocated_to_aid_victims_of_duress.html?id=279537002",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hurricane-preparedness-be-aware-alert-and-ready,"HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS: BE AWARE, ALERT AND READY",2014-10-17,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS: BE AWARE, ALERT AND READY Friday, October 17, 2014 With Hurricane Ana bearing down on the Hawaiian Islands, I urge everyone to remain alert to the weather conditions and be prepared for potentially severe weather.  While Hurricane Ana is expected to remain south of the main Hawaiian Islands, it still is a dangerous tropical storm which will bring heavy rains and possible thunderstorms, strong winds and high surf.  Everyone must stay vigilant as we receive regular updates on the storm. Below are safety guidelines from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. I encourage you to read the recommendations and visit the posted links to help keep you and your family as safe as possible: Hurricane Preparedness - Be Aware, Alert and Ready Two keys to weather safety are to prepare for the risks and to act on those preparations when alerted by emergency officials. These are essential pieces to the Weather-Ready Nation. Refer to the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Ready.gov/hurricanes for comprehensive information on hurricane preparedness at home and in your community. Some highlights on how to prepare and take action are available below: Gather Information Know if you live in an evacuation area. Assess your risks and know your home's vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind. Understand National Weather Service forecast products and especially the meaning of NWS watches and warnings. Contact your local National Weather Service office and local government/emergency management office. Find out what type of emergencies could occur and how you should respond. Contacts Keep a list of contact information for reference: County Public Safety Fire/Rescue State, County and City/Town Government Your Property Insurance Agent Risk Analysis Online hazard and vulnerability assessment tools are available to gather information about your risks. Plan & Take Action Everyone needs to be prepared for the unexpected. Your friends and family may not be together when disaster strikes. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children or parents are safe? You may have to evacuate or be confined to your home. What will you do if water, gas, electricity or phone services are shut off? Supplies Kit Put together a basic disaster supplies kit and consider storage locations for different situations. Help community members do the same. Emergency Plans Develop and document plans for your specific risks. Protect yourself and family with a Family Emergency Plan - [PDF] Be sure to plan for locations away from home Business owners and site locations should create Workplace Plans Make sure schools and daycares have School Emergency Plans Pet owners should have plans to care for their animals. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention offer information on animal health impacts in evacuation shelters. Prepare your boat and be aware of marine safety if you are on or near the water. Health & Environment Follow guidelines to guard your community's health and protect the environment during and after the storm. Review the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) health considerations before, during, and after a storm. Remember to follow the U.S. Food & Drug Administration's (FDA) food and water safety guidelines during disasters. Review the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggestions for health and environmental safety in disaster preparedness. Evacuation Review the FEMA Evacuation Guidelines to allow for enough time to pack and inform friends and family if you need to leave your home. FOLLOW instructions issued by local officials. Leave immediately if ordered! Consider your protection options to decide whether to stay or evacuate your home if you are not ordered to evacuate. When waiting out a storm be careful, the danger may not be over yet... Be alert for: Tornadoes – they are often spawned by hurricanes. The calm ""eye"" of the storm – it may seem like the storm is over, but after the eye passes, the winds will change direction and quickly return to hurricane force. Recover Wait until an area is declared safe before returning home. Remember that recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Resources FEMA - Are You Ready? Guide National Weather Service Weather Safety Be a Force of Nature with NOAA's Weather-Ready Nation NWS Storm-Ready Sites & Communities Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-headlines/senate-judiciary-hearing_accessing-support-how-the-violence-against-women-act-serves-hawaii-military-families-experiencing-domestic-violence,Senate Judiciary Hearing – Accessing Support: How the Violence Against Women Act Serves Hawaii Military Families Experiencing Domestic Violence,2014-10-16,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Thursday, October 16, 2014 Senate Judiciary Hearing – Accessing Support: How the Violence Against Women Act Serves Hawaii Military Families Experiencing Domestic Violence HONOLULU - With the goal of strengthening the connections between civilian and military domestic violence service providers, Senator Mazie K. Hirono today chaired a Senate Judiciary Committee field hearing at the Hawaii State Capitol. Joined by Senator Brian Schatz and Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa, the Hawaii Congressional delegation heard from military representatives, government leaders and service providers regarding military families affected by domestic violence. Senator Hirono presides over Senate Judiciary Committeefield hearing at Hawaii State Capitol Building During the hearing Hirono emphasized the need for coordination between the Department of Defense, State of Hawaii and service providers on ensuring the best service possible with existing resources. Hirono noted that members of the military are part of Hawaii’s community and explained that domestic violence is a community wide problem that defies easy solutions and requires a community wide response.  U.S. Army Colonel Derrick Anincorayan and Cindy Morita In  joint testimony, U.S. Army Colonel Derrick Arincorayan and Cindy Morita, of the U.S. Army Hawaii’s Family Advocacy Program, noted the availability of “restricted reporting,” which preserves the confidentiality of military-connected women and men experiencing domestic violence.   They also highlighted the military’s continued collaboration between the service branches as well as formal agreements made with state agencies that focus on child safety and welfare. Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence executive director Marci Lopes and Domestic Violence Action Center CEO Nanci Kreidman testify Nanci Kreidman, CEO of the Domestic Violence Action Center testified that in a two-week span last month, her organization assisted as many as 40 military-connected victims of domestic violence. That number of cases represented 14 percent of all of Domestic Violence Action Center’s casework at the time. Kreidman noted that cases involving military-connected women and men has grown to as much as 20 percent of her organization’s caseload in the past. Marci Lopes, executive director of the Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence also stated the growing need for services for military connected families. Ms. Lopes provided example of the broader programs currently working with military victims, including emergency shelters, family visiting centers, and a “Flight to Freedom” program that helps reunite victims with their families out of state. Hawaii State Attorney General David Louieaddresses the congressional panel Hawaii State Attorney General David Louie also emphasized the ongoing collective effort testifying that in an era of shrinking governmental resources, it is important that criminal justice agencies and victim service providers work together in a collaborative and coordinated manner. Mr. Louie expressed optimism that all of Hawaii’s agencies will continue to systematically work together to address these issues.  The hearing coincides with “Domestic Violence Awareness Month” and the 20th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/senator-hirono-conducts-hearing-on-military-domestic-violence,Senator Hirono Conducts Hearing on Military Domestic Violence,2014-10-16,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Hirono Conducts Hearing on Military Domestic Violence U.S. Senate Hearing on Military Domestic Violence By:  Wayne Yoshioka Thursday, October 16, 2014 A U.S. Senate Committee hearing was convened today to focus on domestic violence involving the military stationed in Hawai’i.  HPR’s Wayne Yoshioka reports. (Top Photo) Senator Mazie Hirono presided over the hearing. (Bottom Photo) Nanci Kriedman, CEO of the Domestic Violence Center and Marci Lopes. executive director of the Hawai'i State Coalition Against Domestic Violence testified. Listen to the entire piece at: http://hpr2.org/post/senator-hirono-conducts-hearing-military-domestic-violence.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-convenes-senate-judiciary-committee-hearing-to-strengthen-collaboration-between-civilian-and-military-domestic-violence-service-providers,HIRONO CONVENES SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE HEARING TO STRENGTHEN COLLABORATION BETWEEN CIVILIAN AND MILITARY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SERVICE PROVIDERS,2014-10-16,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HIRONO CONVENES SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE HEARING TO STRENGTHEN COLLABORATION BETWEEN CIVILIAN AND MILITARY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SERVICE PROVIDERS Thursday, October 16, 2014 HONOLULU – Senator Mazie K. Hirono today chaired a Senate Judiciary Committee field hearing titled, “Accessing Support: How the Violence Against Women Act Serves Hawaii Military Families Experiencing Domestic Violence.” The hearing focused on how to best coordinate and utilize resources and services for military families experiencing intimate partner abuse. The hearing coincides with “Domestic Violence Awareness Month” and the 20th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). At the field hearing, Senator Hirono heard directly from military representatives, government leaders and service providers with the goal of forging stronger connections between these entities to better serve military families affected by domestic violence. Witnesses included: The Honorable David Louie, Hawaii State Attorney General Colonel Derrick Arincorayan, U.S. Army Hawaii Ms. Cindy Morita, U.S. Army Hawaii Ms. Dawn Ogden, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Ms. Nanci Kreidman, Domestic Violence Action Center Ms. Marci Lopes, Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence The Senate Judiciary Committee field hearing will be re-televised on Olelo Community Media Oceanic Cable channel 49 on the following dates: - Monday, October 27, 3:30pm- Wednesday, October 29, 3:30pm- Thursday, October 30, 8:00pm- Wednesday, November 5, 8:00pm Senator Hirono’s opening statement, as prepared for delivery, is as follows: Twenty years ago, on September 13, 1994, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was signed into law. VAWA represented a major shift in the way Congress approached the issue of domestic violence. With enactment of VAWA, Congress acknowledged a federal role in recognizing that domestic violence is not a private matter to be kept among family and suffered in silence. It’s a crime — and should be treated as such. VAWA recognized that domestic violence is a complicated, multi-faceted crime that defies easy solutions. The root causes of domestic violence are varied, though they often involve power and control. Stressors can include age, a history of family violence, and a large number of socioeconomic factors. To address this fact, VAWA looked to prevent domestic violence and related crimes by encouraging collaboration among law enforcement, the judiciary, and both public and private sector service providers. As part of our ongoing commitment to ending domestic violence, Congress has reauthorized the VAWA three times since 1994. I have supported domestic violence legislation since first taking elected office more than thirty years ago, and am proud that one of the first major bills I worked on as a Senator was the 2013 VAWA reauthorization. I cosponsored that bill, which focused on expanding VAWA protections and services to better serve Indian Country, the LGBT community, and protecting women regardless of their immigrant status. After 20 years, more people are able to seek VAWA’s protections; and more services are available to meet the needs of distinct communities and populations than ever before. But work remains. Every year, on the anniversary of VAWA’s passage, the National Network to End Domestic Violence conducts a count of adults and children served by domestic service providers across the country. As a snapshot, on September 17, 2013 nearly 70,000 people – including 575 from Hawaii sought services. Still, while service providers helped nearly 70,000 people that day, there were still nearly 10,000 men and women who sought services and whose needs were not met. There are populations that VAWA does not cover. One community that has been largely removed from the VAWA conversation is the military – our active duty personnel and their families. That does not mean that military men and women go unserved. For many years the Department of Defense’s Family Advocacy Program (FAP) and other support services have provided military victims with assistance. These programs work with perpetrators and their military command to prevent domestic violence and enforce appropriate consequences. We know that the military population faces different challenges than the population at large. Females who are between 20 and 24 years of age are at the greatest risk of nonfatal, intimate partner violence. In 2012, nearly one half of active duty enlisted military personnel were under the age of 25. While this should not be taken to indicate higher instances of domestic violence in the military, the age factor is worth noting. There are also emotional and psychological stressors that military and their families experience that are not shared by the rest of us. Deployments, for example, present a specific type of long-term absence from home. The transition back to civilian life after deployment is also challenging, particularly for those who have been in combat. These are just two possible, contributing factors to potential domestic violence in the military. What we do know is that military connected men and women are seeking non-military provided services. During a two week period in September of 2014, the Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC) worked with 40 active duty personnel or intimate partners of active duty personnel. That is 4 people a day, over a 10 day period. Active duty military and their families are part of our community, and they should be able to seek services when and where they feel most comfortable. Attorney General Louie has noted in his written testimony that VAWA stakeholders have identified three priority areas for collaboration of services. The first two, appropriately, are providing enhanced training for first responders and improving outreach to underserved populations. The third issue identified is addressing the need for services sought by military connected men and women. To this end, I anticipate expanding upon the Attorney General’s VAWA military working group’s efforts. The main question we want to answer today is not why men and women are seeking services off base. Rather, we’re focusing on how to best address the needs of these men and women. Given current federal budget constraints, we must examine how existing Department of Defense and VAWA resources can be used to ensure quality services for our service members and their families. How can we ensure that there is a continuum of care, a safety net, for men and women involved in abusive relationships regardless of where an abusive incident occurs, when it happens, or who employs those affected? As we gain a better understanding of the unique stressors that impact military personnel, how can we fit their specific needs into the program directives of VAWA? I believe the answer is through collaboration, which VAWA has envisioned since its first enacted: collaboration among state and local governments, service providers, and the Department of Defense. It will take a community-wide effort for us to eliminate this community-wide problem. Today’s hearing is an opportunity to hear from the various stakeholders on strengthening collaboration between civilian and military service providers, to see where there is overlap and learn where collaboration can be fostered or improved upon. As a Member of both the Senate Judiciary Committee and the Senate Armed Services Committee, I look forward to working with appropriate stakeholders to ensure that we do the best we can, in both the military and civilian sectors, to meet the needs of military connected victims of domestic violence. Thank you.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/in-the-news/rep-tulsi-gabbard-op-ed-how-my-military-experience-helps-me-fight-vets-congress,Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Op-Ed: How My Military Experience Helps Me Fight For Vets in Congress,2014-10-15,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"After 9/11, our nation's leaders committed to seeking out and destroying the Islamic extremists who declared war on us, through their attacks, which killed close to 3,000 people on that fateful day. Like so many others, I enlisted in the Army to fight that fight, and shipped off to Basic Combat Training, in Fort Jackson, SC. In 2004, as I campaigned for re-election to my seat in the Hawaii State House, the Hawai'i National Guard's 29th Brigade Combat Team was activated for an 18-monthlong deployment to Iraq. As I sat at my desk reading the notification email, I found out that I was not on the mandatory deployment roster. Someone else had already filled the job I was trained for. However, I knew there was no way that I could stay home in my cushy job, in beautiful Hawai'i, and watch my brothers and sisters march off into combat without me. So I withdrew from my campaign, was trained in a different job, and volunteered to deploy with them to Iraq, setting off on an experience that would indelibly change my life. Shortly after getting to our camp in Iraq - nicknamed ""Mortaritaville"" because of the daily indirect mortar attacks - I came across a sign at one of the main gates where our patrols came in and out, that read in big block letters, ""IS TODAY THE DAY?"" A reminder about the fragility of life, the temporary nature of these bodies, and that we can't take anything for granted, because who knows when our time will come? I was struck daily by the incredibly high human cost of war. Every day, I had to go through a list of every single casualty and injury that had occurred the day before, and see if any soldiers from our unit were on the list. If they had been hurt and couldn't return to duty, I would make sure they received the care they needed, were evacuated, and sent back to the warm embrace of their families. Coming home from two deployments to the Middle East, I wanted to take the experiences I'd had, and impact the decisions made by our nation's leaders. I felt disheartened that the promises our leaders made after 9/11 to take out the Islamic extremist terrorists seemed to have been forgotten, and instead we were set out to fight wars of choice, consisting of missions of nation-building, occupation, and overthrowing dictators. These wars cost our country thousands of precious American lives, even more veterans returning home with injuries both visible and invisible, as well as billions of dollars of American treasure. The result? The Islamic extremists who declared war against us on 9/11 are even stronger today than they were before, and present an even greater global threat. Here at home, too many of our brothers and sisters who have served are unemployed, homeless, and still facing great challenges. There are fewer veterans serving in Congress now, than ever before in our nation's history. Many of our nation's leaders have never experienced the hardships of combat, the longtime separation from family members, or the loss of a battle buddy, and yet they are the ones responsible for deciding when and where our troops are sent into harms way. More must be done to serve and honor our veterans when they come home, and to recognize the value they bring. Our veterans know what it means to put the mission first, to put country and service before self, and to get the job done. These are traits we should all aspire to, whether one has worn the uniform or not, as we explore in our own lives how we can best be of service to others. ### Follow Rep. Tulsi Gabbard on social media:",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bit.ly/2jAQ2F5,"MEDIA ADVISORY: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to Host Veterans Employment Roundtable, Participate in Ceremonies for Active Military and Veterans",2014-10-14,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,bit.ly,,,legacy,"MEDIA ADVISORY: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to Host Veterans Employment Roundtable, Participate in Ceremonies for Active Military and Veterans Media Advisory for October 16-20, 2014—Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) will be working with veteran groups and addressing active and retired military personnel this week.  She will attend the United States Air Force’s historic change of command ceremony at which General Herbert J. Carlisle will relinquish command of Pacific Air Forces to General Lori J. Robinson, the first female general to head the Air Force in the Pacific and the first non-pilot to command air power in such a large theater of operation. The congresswoman will host an Employment Resources Roundtable meeting with leaders from the 25th Infantry Division, U.S. Department of Labor, Hawaiʻi Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, U.S. Veterans Initiative, and select regional businesses that focus on career opportunities for transitioning military members.  The group will address routine attrition, impending downsizing, and how existing community resources can be connected to the active duty military community and veterans seeking employment. Rep. Gabbard will also deliver keynote remarks at the first-ever Kauaʻi Women Veterans Conference, the 239th Navy Birthday Ball hosted by the United States Pacific Fleet, the Pacific Islands Women in Leadership seminar, and the Aloha Shriners Club banquet. NOTE:  Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard may be unable to accept media inquiries or respond to congressional requests for interviews and statements on/after October 17 as she will be called up for military state active duty with the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard’s Ana Task Force, which will be focused on damage projection prior to the storm’s impact, assessment after the storm passes, and assistance to residents and area officials.  Please contact Erika Tsuji at (808) 286-0803 for current status or more information.   DETAILS: Thursday, October 16:  Oʻahu 10:30 a.m.  Attend the United States Air Force’s historic change of command ceremony at which General Herbert J. Carlisle will relinquish command of Pacific Air Forces to General Lori J. Robinson. Where:  Joint Base Pearl Harbor – Hickam, Ceremony at Hangar 19, Reception to follow at the Historic Hickam Officers Club Lanai, Honolulu 1:30 p.m.  Host an Employment Resources Roundtable that focuses on career opportunities for transitioning military members and veterans seeking employment. Where: Senator Daniel Inouye Conference Room at Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Federal Building, 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 7-214, Honolulu 3:00 p.m.  Facilitate a discussion with the Pacific Islands Women in Leadership group, a network of Hawaii's female leaders from Tonga, Fiji, the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, and the Marshall Islands; the group will provide an update on the concerns they’ve been working to address, which include economic, governance, environmental, and social issues. Where:  Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Federal Building, 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 7-214, Honolulu Saturday, October 18:  Kauaʻi, Oahu 9:30 a.m.  Deliver keynote remarks at the first-ever Kauaʻi Women Veterans Conference; share inspirational message and appreciation for women in the military; discuss personal experiences as a female veteran, how military demographics are changing, highlight the unique challenges and opportunities that female servicemembers face, and why servant-leadership is a valuable quality for today’s female veterans; respond to questions from the audience. Where:  Kauai Veterans Center Hall, 3215 Kapule Hwy, Līhu‘e Note:  Participation subject to change pending military duty 6:30 p.m.  Deliver keynote remarks at the 239th Navy Birthday Ball hosted by the United States Pacific Fleet; this year’s theme: “Thanking those who support us.” Where:  Hawaiʻi Ballroom at the Sheraton Waikiki, 2255 Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki Note:  Participation subject to change pending military duty Monday, October 20:  Oʻahu 6:00 p.m.  Deliver keynote remarks, share a congressional update, and give thanks to the Aloha Shriners Club, a brotherhood of men dedicated to providing care for Hawaiʻi children and families in need. Where:  Private room at Wailana Coffee House, 1860 Ala Moana Blvd., Waikiki Note:  Participation subject to change pending military duty   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/media-advisory-rep-tulsi-gabbard-host-veterans-employment-roundtable-participate,"MEDIA ADVISORY: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to Host Veterans Employment Roundtable, Participate in Ceremonies for Active Military and Veterans",2014-10-14,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Advisory for October 16-20, 2014Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) will be working with veteran groups and addressing active and retired military personnel this week. She will attend the United States Air Force's historic change of command ceremony at which General Herbert J. Carlisle will relinquish command of Pacific Air Forces to General Lori J. Robinson, the first female general to head the Air Force in the Pacific and the first non-pilot to command air power in such a large theater of operation. The congresswoman will host an Employment Resources Roundtable meeting with leaders from the 25th Infantry Division, U.S. Department of Labor, Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, U.S. Veterans Initiative, and select regional businesses that focus on career opportunities for transitioning military members. The group will address routine attrition, impending downsizing, and how existing community resources can be connected to the active duty military community and veterans seeking employment. Rep. Gabbard will also deliver keynote remarks at the first-ever Kauai Women Veterans Conference, the 239th Navy Birthday Ball hosted by the United States Pacific Fleet, the Pacific Islands Women in Leadership seminar, and the Aloha Shriners Club banquet. NOTE: Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard may be unable to accept media inquiries or respond to congressional requests for interviews and statements on/after October 17 as she will be called up for military state active duty with the Hawaii Army National Guard's Ana Task Force, which will be focused on damage projection prior to the storm's impact, assessment after the storm passes, and assistance to residents and area officials. Please contact Erika Tsuji at (808) 286-0803 for current status or more information. DETAILS: Thursday, October 16: Oahu 10:30 a.m. Attend the United States Air Force's historic change of command ceremony at which General Herbert J. Carlisle will relinquish command of Pacific Air Forces to General Lori J. Robinson. Where: Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam, Ceremony at Hangar 19, Reception to follow at the Historic Hickam Officers Club Lanai, Honolulu 1:30 p.m. Host an Employment Resources Roundtable that focuses on career opportunities for transitioning military members and veterans seeking employment. Where: Senator Daniel Inouye Conference Room at Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Federal Building, 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 7-214, Honolulu 3:00 p.m. Facilitate a discussion with the Pacific Islands Women in Leadership group, a network of Hawaii's female leaders from Tonga, Fiji, the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, and the Marshall Islands; the group will provide an update on the concerns they've been working to address, which include economic, governance, environmental, and social issues. Where: Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Federal Building, 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 7-214, Honolulu Saturday, October 18: Kauai, Oahu 9:30 a.m. Deliver keynote remarks at the first-ever Kauai Women Veterans Conference; share inspirational message and appreciation for women in the military; discuss personal experiences as a female veteran, how military demographics are changing, highlight the unique challenges and opportunities that female servicemembers face, and why servant-leadership is a valuable quality for today's female veterans; respond to questions from the audience. Where: Kauai Veterans Center Hall, 3215 Kapule Hwy, Lhue Note: Participation subject to change pending military duty 6:30 p.m. Deliver keynote remarks at the 239th Navy Birthday Ball hosted by the United States Pacific Fleet; this year's theme: Thanking those who support us. Where: Hawaii Ballroom at the Sheraton Waikiki, 2255 Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki Note: Participation subject to change pending military duty Monday, October 20: Oahu 6:00 p.m. Deliver keynote remarks, share a congressional update, and give thanks to the Aloha Shriners Club, a brotherhood of men dedicated to providing care for Hawaii children and families in need. Where: Private room at Wailana Coffee House, 1860 Ala Moana Blvd., Waikiki Note: Participation subject to change pending military duty ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/uh-projects-getting-over-35m-in-fed-grants,UH projects getting over $3.5M in fed grants,2014-10-12,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"UH projects getting over $3.5M in fed grants Sunday, October 12, 2014 More than $3.5 million in grant awards will be given to the University of Hawaii for its Sea Grant College Program and for Asia-Pacific research and scholarships, Sen. Mazie Hirono announced Friday. … “Investments in the University of Hawaii’s research and programming are integral to giving students more opportunities, gaining valuable insights into the challenges facing our communities and fostering better engagement in the broader world,” Hirono said. “It is important that we maintain healthy coral reefs and water sources, and gain as much insight as possible into the effects of climate change. With the U.S. government’s ongoing re-balance to the Pacific, it is important that American students, diplomats and policy makers have a working understanding of Asia-Pacific countries and cultures. The awards announced today will help the University of Hawaii conduct research and provide programming to achieve these important goals.” … Read the entire piece at: http://westhawaiitoday.com/news/local-news/uh-projects-getting-over-35m-fed-grants",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gabbard.house.gov/news/press-releases/sen-schatz-rep-gabbard-mayor-kenoi-announce-2-way-access-chain-craters-road-lava,"Sen. Schatz, Rep. Gabbard, Mayor Kenoi Announce 2-way Access on Chain of Craters Road as Lava Flow Advances Toward Phoa Town",2014-10-11,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,gabbard.house.gov,,,legacy,"HonoluluU.S. Senator Brian Schatz and Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard have been working with Hawaii Island Mayor Billy Kenoi to persuade federal officials to rebuild lava-covered portions of Chain of Craters Road as a two-lane route out of Hawaii Island's lower Puna District in anticipation of the Kilauea lava flow cutting off access to major roadways this month. After weeks of collaboration between county, state, and federal officials, Sen. Schatz, Rep. Gabbard, and Mayor Kenoi today announced that the National Parks Service (NPS) intends to reestablish the Chain of Craters Road to its original alignment width of 22 feet with a gravel surface, which will be consistent with the width of the existing park roadway segment, and will accommodate two-way traffic along its entire length. This announcement comes at a critical time, as the tip of the lava flow is less than a mile from Phoa town. This morning, Sen. Schatz visited Chain of Craters Road to meet with NPS Superintendent Cindy Orlando and saw first-hand the bulldozer work being done to clear the access road. Rep. Gabbard went on a helicopter with Hawaii County officials and got a close look at the Kilauea lava vent, the path toward Phoa that the lava has flowed, all access roads in and out of Puna, to include the active bulldoze clearing ongoing on the county's portion of Chain of Craters Road. ""This is a win for Puna residents who need access to the rest of the Big Island, and it was a great team effort,"" said U.S. Senator Brian Schatz. ""I want to thank Mayor Kenoi, Representative Gabbard, and all of the federal, state, and county agencies for completing a difficult negotiation. Our work isn't done, but this is an important first step."" ""The people of Puna have faced great uncertainty and difficulty over the last several weeks, first with back to back Hurricanes and Tropical Storms, followed by Kilauea's lava flow. Ensuring that Chain of Craters Road is rebuilt as soon as possible and that 2-way access is available to the people of Puna now and in the future is absolutely critical,"" said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. ""Mayor Kenoi's strong leadership, collaboration with Senator Schatz, and quick action by the community and local leaders proved essential to bringing about this outcome, to enable Puna residents to make their own plans accordingly."" We are all very grateful to Senator Schatz, Representative Gabbard, and the entire Hawaii delegation for their efforts on behalf of Lower Puna, Mayor Billy Kenoi said. The two-lane, reconstructed Chain of Craters Road will be a lifeline for thousands of our residents, and is essential for the safety and well-being of our working families and our entire community. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141011180122/http://gabbard.house.gov/index.php/news/press-releases/15-media-center/press-releases/347-sen-schatz-rep-gabbard-mayor-kenoi-announce-2-way-access-on-chain-of-craters-road-as-lava-flow-advances-toward-pahoa-town,"Sen. Schatz, Rep. Gabbard, Mayor Kenoi Announce 2-way Access on Chain of Craters Road as Lava Flow Advances Toward Phoa Town",2014-10-11,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Tulsi Gabbard,G000571,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Sen. Schatz, Rep. Gabbard, Mayor Kenoi Announce 2-way Access on Chain of Craters Road as Lava Flow Advances Toward Pāhoa Town Honolulu—U.S. Senator Brian Schatz and Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard have been working with Hawaiʻi Island Mayor Billy Kenoi to persuade federal officials to rebuild lava-covered portions of Chain of Craters Road as a two-lane route out of Hawaiʻi Island's lower Puna District in anticipation of the Kilauea lava flow cutting off access to major roadways this month. After weeks of collaboration between county, state, and federal officials, Sen. Schatz, Rep. Gabbard, and Mayor Kenoi today announced that the National Parks Service (NPS) intends to reestablish the Chain of Craters Road to its original alignment width of 22 feet with a gravel surface, which will be consistent with the width of the existing park roadway segment, and will accommodate two-way traffic along its entire length.  This announcement comes at a critical time, as the tip of the lava flow is less than a mile from Pāhoa town. This morning, Sen. Schatz visited Chain of Craters Road to meet with NPS Superintendent Cindy Orlando and saw first-hand the bulldozer work being done to clear the access road.  Rep. Gabbard went on a helicopter with Hawaiʻi County officials and got a close look at the Kilauea lava vent, the path toward Pāhoa that the lava has flowed, all access roads in and out of Puna, to include the active bulldoze clearing ongoing on the county's portion of Chain of Craters Road. ""This is a win for Puna residents who need access to the rest of the Big Island, and it was a great team effort,"" said U.S. Senator Brian Schatz.  ""I want to thank Mayor Kenoi, Representative Gabbard, and all of the federal, state, and county agencies for completing a difficult negotiation.  Our work isn't done, but this is an important first step."" ""The people of Puna have faced great uncertainty and difficulty over the last several weeks, first with back to back Hurricanes and Tropical Storms, followed by Kilauea's lava flow.  Ensuring that Chain of Craters Road is rebuilt as soon as possible and that 2-way access is available to the people of Puna now and in the future is absolutely critical,"" said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.  ""Mayor Kenoi's strong leadership, collaboration with Senator Schatz, and quick action by the community and local leaders proved essential to bringing about this outcome, to enable Puna residents to make their own plans accordingly.""   “We are all very grateful to Senator Schatz, Representative Gabbard, and the entire Hawaiʻi delegation for their efforts on behalf of Lower Puna,” Mayor Billy Kenoi said.  “The two-lane, reconstructed Chain of Craters Road will be a lifeline for thousands of our residents, and is essential for the safety and well-being of our working families and our entire community.”    ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/hirono-headlines/senator-hirono-meets-with-kupuna-federal-state-and-county-officials-on-hawaii-island-to-discuss-impacts-of-tropical-storm-iselle-and-the-june-27-lava-flow-on-the-puna-community,"Senator Hirono meets with kupuna, federal, state and county officials on Hawaii Island to discuss impacts of Tropical Storm Iselle and the June 27 lava flow on the Puna community",2014-10-10,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Friday, October 10, 2014 Senator Hirono meets with kupuna, federal, state and county officials on Hawaii Island to discuss impacts of Tropical Storm Iselle and the June 27 lava flow on the Puna community PUNA, Hawaii Island – Senator Mazie K. Hirono met with individuals from the Puna community to hear the latest update on their recovery from the effects of Tropical Storm Iselle and the effects of the June 27 lava flow from Kilauea volcano. The meeting served as a follow-up to Senator Hirono's visit to the Puna area in August with members of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Preliminary Damage Assessment Team to assess damage to the area caused by the tropical storm. Senator Hirono meets with kupuna and community leaders in Puna. With the assistance of Hawaii County Council Member Greggor Ilagan, Senator Hirono met with representatives from the Puna community including the Nanawale Community Association, Makuu Farmers Association, as well as area educators and social service providers, Hawaii County and church leaders. They informed the Senator of their concerns for the continuum of services for Puna in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Iselle and in advance of the lava flow. Topics raised include transportation and access issues; Chain of Craters Road, Railroad Avenue and Government Beach Road. Concerns over a potential delay in postal delivery from USPS for Puna residents along with issues related to emergency services, air quality, homeowner's insurance, pre-school closings, food pantries and albizia mitigation were also discussed.   Short-term Preparations, Long-term Plans for Chain of Craters Road Senator Hirono hosted a meeting on the immediate and future plans for Chain of Craters Road bringing together about a dozen people from the Hawaii County, U.S. National Park Service (NPS), Hawaii Department of Transportation and Federal Highways Administration. Senator Hirono wanted to ensure that there was communication and coordination among the federal, state and county agencies working to address access issues for the Puna community and to preserve the option for federal reimbursement for construction costs if Highway 130 is closed due to the lava flow. On the day of the meeting, based on new information related to design, construction and anticipated longer term use, NPS re-evaluated the Chain of Craters Road layout and dimensions and announced its intent to complete an environmental analysis to reestablish Chain of Craters Road to its original alignment of the two lane road with a width of 22 feet with gravel surface.  Hawaii Department of Transportation will provide the design for the two lane road. USGA scientists brief Senator Hirono on the lava flow's projected path  Senator Hirono also received an update from Steve Brantley and Frank Trusdell of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), including projected dates of the June 27 lava flow crossing Highway 130, Railroad Avenue and Government Beach Road. The lava's advance rate has varied significantly, prompting USGS to update its information. You can sign up to receive notices on volcano activity by clicking here. We’ll be sure to keep you updated as we continue to work with community and government leaders. HAWAII ISLAND UPDATE: Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists estimated Monday, October 13, that the lava flow is advancing at an average rate of about 80 yards a day, predicting it could reach Apaa Street on the outskirts of Pahoa in about 19 days. Apaa Street leads to the Pahoa Recycling and Transfer Station.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hirono.senate.gov/press-releases/hirono-announces-more-than-35-million-in-grants-to-support-research-at-university-of-hawaii-,HIRONO ANNOUNCES MORE THAN $3.5 MILLION IN GRANTS TO SUPPORT RESEARCH AT UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII,2014-10-10,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,HI,Mazie Hirono,H001042,www.hirono.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HIRONO ANNOUNCES MORE THAN $3.5 MILLION IN GRANTS TO SUPPORT RESEARCH AT UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII U.S. Departments of Commerce and Education Support UH Research for Climate Change Resilience and to Further Hawaii’s Asia-Pacific Engagement Friday, October 10, 2014 HONOLULU – Senator Mazie K. Hirono today announced more than $3.5 million in grant awards to the University of Hawaii (UH) for the UH Sea Grant College Program and for Asia-Pacific research and scholarships. The UH Sea Grant College Program has received more than $1.6 million in federal support from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for research and programming to understand the effects of climate change on coral reefs and oceans, groundwater and other impacts on the Hawaiian Islands. The U.S. Department of Education has awarded nearly $1.9 million for UH research on activity throughout the Asia-Pacific region and to support language study and travel grants. “Investments in the University of Hawaii’s research and programming are integral to giving students more opportunities, gaining valuable insights into the challenges facing our communities and fostering better engagement in the broader world,” said Senator Hirono. “It is important that we maintain healthy coral reefs and water sources, and gain as much insight as possible into the effects of climate change. With the U.S. government’s ongoing rebalance to the Pacific, it is important that American students, diplomats and policy makers have a working understanding of Asia-Pacific countries and cultures. The awards announced today will help the University of Hawaii conduct research and provide programming to achieve these important goals.” The UH Sea Grant College Program has received funds from NOAA as a part of the broader Sea Grant Program. UH is one of only 33 universities in the United States that is a member of the Sea Grant Program. Through university and state partnerships, federal funding will support projects that help build resilient coastal communities and economies. The U.S. Department of Education is providing funding to UH Manoa with the goal of enabling the university to teach foreign languages and international affairs more effectively. UH also received funding that will allow students to conduct research abroad in their areas of focus. NOAA funds will be allocated to the following UH Sea Grant Projects: UH Sea Grant Project Federal Award Amount Engineering Feasibility Study of a Water Catchment System for Moku o Loe (Coconut Island), Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, Kaneohe, HI $90,510 Ocean Acidification Monitoring Network, Oahu, Hawaii $30,144 Groundwater Inundation: Doubling Community Damage from Sea Level Rise $48,071 Humankind’s Biogeochemical Experiment: Ocean Acidification and “Coral Reef” Dissolution $34,967 Forecasting climate change impacts on coastal ecosystem services in Hawaii through integration of ecological and social participatory models $10,192 Global and regional vulnerability to 21st century climate shifts in current areas of plant growth $34,996 Coral adaptation and acclimatization to global change: resilience to hotter, more acidic oceans $10,500 Groundwater-derived nutrient uptake in coastal ecosystems as driver of reef accretion-erosion balance $74,982 Quantifying transport and differentiation of land-use impacts of groundwater nutrient loadings to the coastal zones of Maui $51,260 Disease Outbreak Investigation on the Reefs of Kauai $14,875 The effects of anthropogenic noise on humpback whale mother-calf pairs $24,953 Maintaining healthy coastal ecosystems: understanding disease risk of Hawaii’s coral reefs and sources of coral pathogens $16,933 Sea Grant Extension Program $563,398 Communications Program $222,533 Graduate Trainee Program $438,730 Program Development $20,076 U.S. Department of Education funds will be allocated for the following Fulbright-Hays and International and Foreign Language Education Projects: Type of Funding UH Unit Federal Award Amount Language Resource Center College of Languages, Linguistics and Literature, Center for Language and Technology $178,568 National Resource Center College of Social Sciences, Geography Department - World Area: East Asia $219,850 National Resource Center College of Arts and Humanities, Department of Theater and Dance, Asian Theater Program - World Area: Southeast Asia $239,400 National Resource Center School of Pacific and Asian Studies, Center for Pacific Islands Studies - World Area: Southeast Asia (Pacific Islands) $228,000 FLAS Fellowship School of Pacific and Asian Studies, Center for Pacific Islands Studies - World Area: Southeast Asia (Pacific Islands) $177,000 FLAS Fellowship College of Arts and Humanities, Department of Theater and Dance, Asian Theater Program - World Area: Southeast Asia $348,000 FLAS Fellowship College of Social Sciences, Geography Department - World Area: East Asia $376,500 Fulbright-Hays -  Group Projects Abroad (GPA) Host Country: Cambodia   $78,562 Fulbright-Hays - Doctoral Dissertation Research Abroad (DDRA)   $41,793",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z