The FY 2011 Omnibus Appropriations Act requires the Interior Department to conduct a study of Native Hawaiian recognition.

Section 125 of the bill directs DOI to work with the state of Hawaii, Native Hawaiians and the Department of Justice on the study. A report "on developing a mechanism for the reorganization of a Native Hawaiian governing entity and recognition by the United States of the Native Hawaiian governing entity as an Indian tribe within the meaning of Articles I and II of the Constitution" is due no later than September 30, 2011.

Congress has considered several bills to extend the policy of self-determination to Native Hawaiians. The bills have never become law amid opposition from Republicans.

Get the Story:
Senate bill includes funding for study on native Hawaiian sovereignty (Watchdog 12/14)

Native Hawaiian Self-Determination Bill:
H.R.862 | S.381

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