Abercrombie (HI01) :: Press Release :: Abercrombie Introduces Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Bill in U.S. House Rep. Hirono Co-Sponsors Legislation

	January 17, 2007

	Abercrombie Introduces Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Bill in U.S. House *Rep. Hirono Co-Sponsors Legislation*

	Washington, DC -- U.S. Representative Neil Abercrombie today introduced the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of 2007, the House companion bill to Senator Daniel Akaka’s measure introduced yesterday in the Senate. The Akaka-Abercrombie legislation would recognize Native Hawaiians as indigenous people, similar to American Indians and Alaska Natives. Representative Mazie Hirono co-sponsored Abercrombie’s House bill. “This measure gives the Native Hawaiian community the tools to guide its own destiny and manage the lands and assets set aside for it by law,” said Abercrombie. “Native Hawaiians fully deserve a seat at the table and a direct voice on issues critical to their well being and cultural identity.” Congresswoman Hirono added, “I am very proud to join with Senators Akaka and Inouye and Congressman Abercrombie in introducing the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of 2007. Native Hawaiians deserve the same rights to self-determination and self-governance enjoyed by the other indigenous peoples of the United States. Passage of this landmark legislation is one of my highest priorities.” -30-