A bill to extend the policy of self-determination to Native Hawaiians is "as good as dead," one supporter said.

The House passed the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act in February. But it never came up for a vote in the Senate and it's not considered a high-priority when lawmakers return to work next week.

"I think it's as good as dead," Rep. Charles Djou (R) told the Associated Pres. "We had a situation where the president of the United States said he would sign the Akaka bill and the Democrats held overwhelming majorities in both chambers, and Sen. Akaka wasn't able to get it through."

Sen. Daniel Akaka (D) said he will push for passage before the end of the 111th Congress. But Sen. Daniel Inouye (D) isn't confident of success.

Get the Story:
Native Hawaiian government faltering in Congress (AP 11/9)

Native Hawaiian Bill:
H.R.862 | S.381

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