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Senate committee deadlocks on Native Hawaiian economic‑development working group; measure fails
Summary
After hours of public testimony for and against gambling-related economic development, the Senate Committee on Hawaiian Affairs voted on HCR 192 HD2 — a resolution to convene a Native Hawaiian economic development working group — and the committee's recommendation failed.
Senator Lynn DeCoite, chair of the Senate Committee on Hawaiian Affairs, called for a vote April 15 on HCR 192 HD2, a House resolution requesting the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism to form a Native Hawaiian economic development working group. Committee members declined to adopt the chair’s amended recommendation and the measure failed.
The resolution drew lengthy public comment both supporting and opposing any formal exploration that would include gaming. Supporters, including representatives of the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement and members of several Native Hawaiian organizations, said the working group could ensure Hawaiians lead discussions about any future economic-development options. "For us, this isn't about chasing profits, it's about reconciliation," said Brandon Makahava, speaking for a Nation of Hawaii delegation.
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