Daniel Kahikina Akaka, U.S. Senator of Hawaii RSS 2.0 Feed

Obama gives Akaka props at Tribal Nations Conference

Wed, 5 Dec 2012 00:12:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. -- At the closing session of the 2012 Tribal Nations Conference today, President Barack Obama gave a "shout out" to U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka who was attending the conference as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.

"I want to give a special shout-out to Senator Danny Akaka, who has been such a tireless advocate for Native Americans throughout his career," President Obama said to applause. "You know that Danny is going to be retiring this year, and he?s such a great friend. And as a Hawaiian boy, I?ve got to give him a little special props. (Laughter.)"

Senator Akaka retires in January after 36 years in Congress. Today's event was held at the U.S. Department of the Interior.

(Senator Akaka is mentioned about 25 seconds into the video.)

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U.S. Senate marks Year of the Korean War Veteran on the war's 60th anniversary

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 00:11:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - This week, the United States Senate unanimously approved a resolution designating 2012-2013 as the Year of the Korean War Veteran, recognizing the 60th anniversary of the war, and honoring and contributions and sacrifices made by the veterans. The resolution was authored by Senators Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) and James Inhofe (R-Oklahoma), the bipartisan co-chairs of the Senate Army Caucus and both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

"The United States Senate stands together in awe and humble appreciation of the sacrifices and contributions of our Korean War veterans on this 60th anniversary," said Senator Akaka. "Without them, our world today would be a much different place. I am especially proud to have led this effort with my good friend and brother Senator Inhofe. Though we may have differing opinions on many issues, there is no distance between us when it comes to honoring our veterans and service members. I have valued his friendship and collaboration over the years."

The resolution (S.Res.602) was cosponsored by Senators Saxby Chambliss (R-Georgia), Mark Udall (D-Colorado), Mark Begich (D-Alaska), and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). It passed the Senate by unanimous consent on November 27th.

The full text of the resolution:

RESOLUTION

Designating 2012-2013 as the `Year of the Korean War Veteran' and recognizing the 60th anniversary of the Korean War.

Whereas, on June 25, 1950, the Communist Democratic People's Republic of Korea began the Korean War by invading the Republic of Korea with approximately 135,000 troops;

Whereas nearly 1,800,000 members of the United States Armed Forces served along with the forces of the Republic of Korea and 20 other Allied nations in the Korean theater of operations to defend freedom and democracy in the Korean Peninsula;

Whereas, during the Korean War, 36,574 people from the United States died and 103,284 people from the United States were wounded in some of the most horrific combat and weather conditions in the history of warfare;

Whereas almost 60 years have passed since the signing of the cease-fire agreement at Panmunjom on July 27, 1953, and the Korean Peninsula still technically remains in a state of war;

Whereas the Korean War has for many years been a `Forgotten War' for people in the United States;

Whereas Korean War veterans deserve to be recognized by the people of the United States for their honorable and courageous service in defense of democracy and freedom during the Korean War;

Whereas the tide of communism on the southern 1/2 of the Korean Peninsula was halted, liberty triumphed over tyranny, and the Republic of Korea has developed into a modern and prosperous democracy because of the selfless sacrifice of the Korean War veterans;

Whereas the people of the United States and the Republic of Korea are eternally grateful to the Korean War veterans;

Whereas the history of the Korean War should be included in the curriculum of schools in the United States so that future generations never forget the sacrifices of the Korean War veterans and what those veterans accomplished;

Whereas the Department of Defense 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Commemoration Committee will implement a national campaign to honor the Korean War veterans, remember those Korean War veterans still counted among the missing in action, and educate the people of the United States concerning the ongoing relevance of the Korean War; and

Whereas the commemorative campaign will include ceremonies in the United States and the Republic of Korea in recognition of the beginning (June 25, 1950) and the armistice ending hostilities (July 27, 1953), as well as a national media and outreach campaign for Veterans Day 2012 to honor the Korean War veterans: Now, therefore, be it

    Resolved, That the Senate--

        (1) designates 2012-2013 as the `Year of the Korean War Veteran';

        (2) recognizes the 60th anniversary of the Korean War; and

        (3) honors the contributions and sacrifices made by the Korean War veterans.

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Senate passes bipartisan Hatch Act modernization bill

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 00:11:00 GMT

Washington, DC - The United States Senate unanimously approved the bipartisan Hatch Act Modernization Act of 2012 (S. 2170) by voice vote today. The bill was introduced by Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) and cosponsored by Senators Joe Lieberman (ID-Connecticut), Carl Levin (D-Michigan), and Mike Lee (R-Utah).

Senator Akaka said: "I am pleased the Senate approved this important legislation, which will allow more Americans the right to run for public office and serve their communities, and treat federal employees and employees of the District of Columbia more fairly. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House to pass the bill."

Senator Lieberman said: "This common sense legislation adds flexibility to the Hatch Act by allowing talented state and local public servants to run for office. The bill also treats D.C. government employees like state and local employees and increases disciplinary options for federal employees charged with minor violations of the Act. These reasonable changes will help protect the personal freedoms of federal and District of Columbia employees while shielding them from pressure to use their work time and resources for partisan gain."

Senator Lee said: "The law was meant to prevent federal employees from engaging in partisan politics. Unfortunately, it has been used to prevent state and local employees whose organizations may receive some federal funding from running for elected office. States should be allowed to make their own laws with regard to the political activity of state and local employees and not have the policy dictated to them by Washington. I am pleased that we were able to come to a bipartisan solution on this issue and encourage my colleagues in the House to do the same."

Senator Levin said: "I am pleased that the Senate has passed this legislation to allow hard-working employees of state and local government who are covered by the Hatch Act to run and serve as elected officials in their communities. It is past time that we clarified the Hatch Act so that these highly qualified individuals can have an opportunity to run for public office. "

The Hatch Act, enacted in 1939, restricts the political activity of Federal employees, District of Columbia government employees, and state and local employees whose positions are connected to federal funds. Congress has not amended the law since 1993.

The Hatch Act Modernization Act would:

Allow most state and local employees to run for partisan elective office

Place employees of the executive branch of the District of Columbia under provisions of the Hatch Act that apply to employees in other states or localities

Amend the Hatch Act's penalty provisions for federal employees to allow a broader range of penalties

Allow federal employees residing in the District of Columbia to run as independent candidates in partisan local elections, which already is permitted for federal employees who live in suburbs of the District of Columbia and other areas of the country with high concentrations of federal employees.

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Indian Affairs hearing on Reclaiming Our Image and Identity for the Next Seven Generations

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:11:00 GMT

Aloha, and thank you for being with us today for the Committee's oversight hearing on Reclaiming Our Image and Identity for the Next Seven Generations.

Over the past few decades, November has been a time to recognize and honor the contributions Indigenous peoples have made to the United States. At the federal level, what began as a day to honor Native peoples grew into a week and now is the entire month of November. President George H.W. Bush declared 1992 the "Year of the American Indian."

But for Native peoples, every day is Native Heritage Day, every month is Native Heritage Month, and every year is the Year of the American Indian. Tribes celebrate their vibrant cultures with centuries old ceremonies, feasts, powwows, and other celebrations throughout the entire year. Native languages are spoken, traditional foods are eaten, songs and dances are shared, and most importantly, these traditions are passed on to the next generation.

The month of November provides Native peoples the opportunity to educate by sharing their history and culture with a larger audience. Many times this begins with breaking down the harmful stereotypes of Native peoples perpetuated in many movies, television shows, and by native-themed mascots.

Through continuous outreach and education, we will continue reclaiming our image and identity. Indian country is privileged to have countless ambassadors, past and present, and many who are here today to shine a positive light on Native cultures and identity.

As we tell our stories, more people learn about our contributions to government, the military, science, sports, and many other fields.

As we tell our stories, people learn about how the Iroquois Confederacy influenced the Founding Fathers in drafting the United States Constitution with the concepts of freedom of speech, separation of powers, and checks and balances.

As we tell our stories, people learn about the contributions Natives have made to the United States Armed Forces, including the work of the Code Talkers in World War I and World War II.

As we tell our stories, people learn about our contributions to science including the work of Mary Golda Ross, the first Native American female engineer and one of the most prominent scientists of the space age.

As we tell our stories, people learn about the Big Kahuna, Duke Kahanamoku, a Native Hawaiian who is a five time Olympic medalist in swimming and a member of the Surfing Hall of Fame. And Chris Wondolowski from the Kiowa Tribe who became the Most Valuable Player of Major League Soccer today.

Though I am retiring soon, I know Indian country is in good hands because of the leaders here today, the hundreds that have participated in the Committee's events over the last two years, and many more that are doing tireless work in their communities.

Throughout my time in Congress I've had the opportunity to witness the beauty of traditional native dances, hear the uniqueness of our Native languages, and see the capabilities of tribal governments. It has been a pleasure that I will forever cherish.

In closing, Native Hawaiians don't say goodbye, we say a hui hou. Until we meet again. To everyone here today - I extend my heartfelt blessings to you, your families, and to the United States of America. It is with much aloha that I say to you now - a hui hou.

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New GAO reports provide further evidence that cuts to FECA benefits are unfair

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:11:00 GMT

Washington, DC - The Government Accountability Office (GAO) released two new reports this week that analyzed changes to the Federal Employee's Compensation Act and their impact on Federal employees and Postal Service employees.

GAO found that proposed cuts to Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA) benefits in the 21st Century Postal Service Act (S.1789) would result in employees who are injured at work receiving up to 35 percent less on FECA than they would have received if they had been able to retire without injury under the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS). Proposed cuts also would have a more significant impact on employees at lower pay grades and those who are injured earlier in their careers.

"GAO's analysis further supports my position that the FECA benefit reductions included in the Senate-passed postal reform bill are unfair to injured employees," Senator Akaka said. "This is especially true of the proposed cuts for elderly disabled employees who will receive significantly less than they would have received in retirement had they not been injured. I continue to urge my colleagues to reject benefit cuts that would harm employees who are disabled by injuries sustained in service to their country."

More findings from the GAO report:

Median FECA benefits under current law for totally disabled workers are "on a par with or less than" what workers would have received under FERS had they worked a full 30-year career.

Under a proposal by the Department of Labor that was included in the Senate-passed postal reform bill, non-postal workers disabled as part of their service would receive 31-to-35 percent less than if they were not injured and retired after 30 years under the current retirement system.

GAO estimated that these revisions also adversely impact federal postal workers. Median FECA benefits would be 22-to-29 percent lower than what postal workers would have received in retirement benefits had they worked a full 30 year career.

For injured workers with dependents, GAO found that the Department of Labor's proposal would decrease their pre-retirement median wage replacement rates from 81.6 percent under current law to 75.8 percent under the proposals.

GAO found a disproportionate impact on wage replacement rates for "those injured at lower GS (salary) levels and those who missed longer careers."

Senator Akaka is Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia, a subcommittee of the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.

The GAO reports are available here:

Analysis of Proposed Changes on USPS Beneficiaries GAO-13-142R, Nov 26, 2012

Analysis of Proposed Program Changes GAO-13-108, Oct 26, 2012

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Colleagues praise Akaka at Indian Affairs hearing

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:11:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - Today, several members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs offered kind words for departing Chairman Daniel K. Akaka at what could be the final hearing he leads as he nears the end of his 36 year career in Congress.

"You, Mr. Chairman, have been a champion for Native Americans during your distinguished career in Congress," said Vice Chairman Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyoming). "It has been a great honor for me to serve with you as Vice Chairman on this committee. You have been a great friend and a great teacher to so many of us who have had the great pleasure of working with and serving with you. You have led by example in carrying out our bipartisan tradition."

Barrasso also noted Akaka's reference to Native Hawaiian Olympic champion Duke Kanahamoku as being a big kahuna. "In your opening statement, you made reference to the big kahuna. I always thought of YOU as the big kahuna [laughter]. You have been a good friend to Indian Country as well. As chairman of this committee, you have brought to the forefront many pressing issues facing Indian Country today. You have generated significant dialogue to build upon for future Congresses. The challenges facing Indian Country can sometimes be daunting, yet you so diligently worked to find and advance solutions that improve the lives of Indian people. So I just want you to know that I appreciate all of your work and all of your efforts on these matters."

"I too want to echo the Ranking Member's sentiments," said Senator Jon Tester (D-Montana). "I have had the honor and privilege of serving on two committees now which you were chair. With you retiring out of the Senate after this session is over with, I just want to say thank you thank you for your advocacy of the veterans across the country on the Veterans' Affairs Committee which you chaired. And thank you very much for your advocacy for Native Americans across this country. Your quiet style of leadership I very much appreciate. You really have set the standard, and I want to thank you for it. And thank you for serving as chairman of this committee. I think you have made this committee what it is for the last two years, and I want to thank you for bringing up important issues that impact Indian Country up and down the line.

"I would like to associate myself with the comments of the Vice Chairman and Senator Tester in thanking you for your leadership on this committee and your consistent efforts to support Native people," said Senator Al Franken (D-Minnesota). "The only part I don't want to associate myself with - I never thought you were the big kahuna [laughter]. I would like to disassociate myself with the Vice Chairman (laughter). But I would echo everything else he said about your leadership and your bipartisanship. Even if what I just said didn't sound bipartisan [laughter]. Your dedication to American Indians, to Native peoples, is inspiring.

Franken also noted Akaka's help for Minnesota tribes. "With your help we were able to resolve a 60 year old issue and now six bands of a Minnesota tribe can access the funds that are rightfully theirs. I want to thank you Mr. Chairman. If big kahuna sticks, I'll go with it. [laughter] Thank you. I'll be here all week. [laugher]"

The final hearing was titled Reclaiming Our Image and Identity for the Next Seven Generations and Chairman Akaka touched on the theme in his opening statement. "Indian Country is privileged to have countless ambassadors, past and present, and many who are here today, to shine a positive light on Native cultures and identity. As we tell our stories, more people learn about our contributions to government, the military, science, and other fields."

Senator Akaka's final day in office is January 2, 2013.

A YouTube video of the tributes is available here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UzNgVFJqKw

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President Obama signs Senator Akaka's Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act into law

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 00:11:00 GMT

President Barack Obama signs S. 743, the Whistleblower Protection and Enhancement Act (WPEA), in the Oval Office, Nov. 27, 2012. Standing behind the President, from left, are: John Berry, Director of the Office of Personnel Management; Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa; Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine; Sen. Daniel Akaka, D-Hawaii; Rep. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.; Rep. Todd Platts, R-Pa.; Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif.; Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md.; and Special Counsel Carolyn Lerner. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)*

Washington, DC - President Barack Obama enacted the Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2012 at a ceremony in the Oval Office. This landmark legislation, championed by Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) for over a decade, strengthens the Whistleblower Protection Act to better protect federal employees who come forward to disclose government waste, fraud, abuse, and other wrongdoing.

The U.S. Senate passed the bill on November 13, and the House of Representatives passed it on September 28.

The bill was authored by Senator Akaka and cosponsored by Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Joe Lieberman (ID-Connecticut), Carl Levin (D-Michigan), Tom Carper (D-Delaware), Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont), Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), Mark Pryor (D-Arkansas), Mary Landrieu (D-Louisiana), Claire McCaskill (D-Missouri), Jon Tester (D-Montana), Mark Begich (D-Alaska), Ben Cardin (D-Maryland), and Chris Coons (D-Delaware).

Representatives Darrell Issa (R-California), Elijah Cummings (D-Maryland), Todd Russell Platts (R-Pennsylvania), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland) were instrumental in moving the bill through the House.

Senator Akaka said: "I count today's signing ceremony among my career highlights. Federal employees who risk their careers to step forward and disclose waste, fraud, and abuse save taxpayer money and make our government more efficient. They absolutely deserve our support and I am so proud that these new protections are now enacted into law."

Senator Collins said: "Our new law makes crystal clear that federal employees should not be subject to prior restraint from, or punishment for, disclosing wrongdoing. The whistleblowers' law will help give federal workers the peace of mind that if they speak out, they will be protected. Whistleblower protections will also help ensure that Congress has access to the information necessary to conduct proper oversight. It is important to note a major change made by the Akaka-Collins law is that, for the first time, the U.S. Office of the Special Counsel will have the tools needed to enforce the law."

Senator Grassley said: "As one of the authors of the original Whistleblower Protection Act, and a long-time advocate for whistleblowers, it's wonderful to see this legislation signed into law. Whistleblowers strengthen our system of checks and balances, and that strengthens our system of representative government. It's a constant battle to make sure that these patriotic citizens who shed light on overspending, mismanagement and layers of ineffective leadership within the federal government are protected. Now, more work needs to be done to ensure that FBI whistleblower protections are updated and that intelligence community whistleblowers are covered under the law and given the protections they deserve."

Senator Lieberman said: "Whistleblowers are key to improving the performance of the federal government and must be protected for having the courage to speak out about waste, fraud, and abuse. Without these protections, those closest to the problems will remain silent for fear of retaliation, and American taxpayers will pay the price."

The Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2012 will:

clarify that any disclosure of gross waste or mismanagement, fraud, abuse, or illegal activity may be protected, but not disagreements over legitimate policy decisions;
suspend the sole jurisdiction of the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals over federal employee whistleblower cases for two years;
extend Whistleblower Protection Act coverage and other non-discrimination and anti-retaliatory laws to all employees of the Transportation Security Administration;
clarify that whistleblowers may disclose evidence of censorship of scientific or technical information under the same standards that apply to disclosures of other kinds of waste, fraud, and abuse;
codify the anti-gag provision that has been part of every Transportation-Treasury Appropriations bill since 1988;
establish Whistleblower Protection Ombudsmen to educate agency personnel about whistleblower rights; and
provide the Office of Special Counsel with the independent right to file "friend of the court" briefs, or amicus briefs, with federal courts.

Senator Akaka has been Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia since 2007, and he is a senior member of the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.

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*PHOTO DISCLAIMER: This official White House photograph is being made available only for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, emails, products, promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the President, the First Family, or the White House.

Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation to sign full funding grant agreement with Federal Transit Administration

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 00:11:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) will sign a full funding grant agreement with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to provide $1,550,000,000 for the Oahu rail project, according to a Congressional notification sent to the Senate appropriations and banking committees.

By law, the FTA is required to notify Congress 30 days before it signs a full funding grant agreement. Immediately after signing the agreement, the HART will receive $200 million in New Starts funding from FY2012.

Senator Akaka said: "I am so pleased that FTA and the city will be able to finalize the Full Funding Grant Agreement for the Honolulu rail project before my retirement. Administrator Rogoff's letter shows that federal government is confident the rail project is financially sound and has a realistic construction schedule. By providing a new option for Oahu commuters to avoid traffic congestion, rail will save families time and money and will reduce pollution in the air we breathe. I look forward to the rail project's completion."

Chairman Inouye said: "This is an important step toward providing federal funding for the Honolulu Rail Transit project. We have discussed and debated the merits of a rail line on the island of Oahu for the majority of my time in the Congress and I would like to thank Peter Rogoff and the Federal Transit Administration, President Obama, and Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood for partnering with the City and County of Honolulu to build a system that will alleviate traffic congestion, lessen our dependence on imported fossil fuels and provide our residents, in particular those living in West Oahu, with a much needed alternative to driving. The Full Funding Grant agreement will provide$1.55 billion for the project and I will continue to work in a bipartisan fashion with my colleagues in the Congress to ensure we appropriate what is needed to complete this project in an efficient and timely manner. The path to this agreement with the federal government has not been easy, but like the construction of the H-3 Freeway for Windward Oahu residents, and significant improvements to Kalanianaole Highway for East Honolulu, the rail transit project will bring welcome relief to West Oahu residents who spend too much time stuck in traffic."

Congresswoman Hirono, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said: "Today's announcement is welcome news that moves Honolulu another step closer to securing the full $1.55 billion that has been budgeted for the Rail project. This project will provide much-needed transportation options through one of the most gridlocked sections of Oahu, improving the quality of life for many Hawaii families while providing thousands of jobs. To date, this project has enjoyed strong, bipartisan support in Congress, and I expect to see this agreement reviewed and approved before the end of this year."

Congresswoman Hanabusa said: "I am glad we have achieved another important milestone in the progress of the Honolulu rail project. It is an investment in improving the quality of life in our state, preserving our natural environment, and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. While it appears that there may still be matters to be finalized on the project, the fact that we continue to make progress is a testament to those in Hawaii who have maintained their commitment to addressing Honolulu's needs, as well as those in Washington--particularly Senator Inouye--who have kept federal officials' focus on the importance of rail to Honolulu. I will continue to work with Senator Inouye and the rest of Hawaii's Congressional delegation to help ensure that Hawaii can benefit fully from these funds."

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Bipartisan Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act passes Congress

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:11:00 GMT

Washington, DC - The U.S. Senate passed the Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2012 (S. 743) last night by unanimous consent, sending the bill to the president. This landmark legislation, championed by Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) for over a decade, strengthens the Whistleblower Protection Act to better protect federal employees who come forward to disclose government waste, fraud, abuse, and other wrongdoing. The House of Representatives unanimously approved the bill on September 28.

The legislation authored by Senator Akaka is cosponsored by Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Joe Lieberman (ID-Connecticut), Carl Levin (D-Michigan), Tom Carper (D-Delaware), Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont), Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), Mark Pryor (D-Arkansas), Mary Landrieu (D-Louisiana), Claire McCaskill (D-Missouri), Jon Tester (D-Montana), Mark Begich (D-Alaska), Ben Cardin (D-Maryland), and Chris Coons (D-Delaware).

Representatives Darrell Issa (R-California), Elijah Cummings (D-Maryland), Todd Russell Platts (R-Pennsylvania), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland) were instrumental in moving the bill through the House of Representatives.

Senator Akaka said: "I am pleased that my Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act is heading to the president's desk. We must protect public servant whistleblowers who risk their careers to disclose waste, fraud, and abuse. They make the federal government more effective and save taxpayers money. I have worked on this legislation for over a decade, most recently as chairman of the federal workforce subcommittee, and I truly thank my colleagues for enacting this important legislation at this time."

Senator Collins said: "Congress has consistently supported the principle that federal employees should not be subject to prior restraint or punishment from disclosing wrongdoing. This should give federal workers the peace of mind that if they speak out, they will be protected. Full whistleblower protections will also help ensure that Congress and our Committee have access to the information necessary to conduct proper oversight."

Senator Grassley said: "This much needed update helps whistleblowers who risk their careers by sticking their necks out to simply tell the truth. The Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act is an important step forward, but improvements are still needed to ensure that intelligence community whistleblowers receive the protection they deserve for uncovering fraud deep within the bureaucracy."
Senator Lieberman said: "Whistleblowers are key to improving the performance of the federal government and must be protected for having the courage to speak out about waste, fraud, and abuse. Without these protections, those closest to the problems will remain silent for fear of retaliation, and American taxpayers will pay the price."

The Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2012 will:

clarify that any disclosure of gross waste or mismanagement, fraud, abuse, or illegal activity may be protected, but not disagreements over legitimate policy decisions;
suspend the sole jurisdiction of the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals over federal employee whistleblower cases for two years;
extend Whistleblower Protection Act coverage and other non-discrimination and anti-retaliatory laws to all employees of the Transportation Security Administration;
clarify that whistleblowers may disclose evidence of censorship of scientific or technical information under the same standards that apply to disclosures of other kinds of waste, fraud, and abuse;
codify the anti-gag provision that has been part of every Transportation-Treasury Appropriations bill since 1988;
establish Whistleblower Protection Ombudsmen to educate agency personnel about whistleblower rights; and
provide the Office of Special Counsel with the independent right to file "friend of the court" briefs, or amicus briefs, with federal courts.

-END-

Akaka disappointed by obstruction of critical Cybersecurity bill

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:11:00 GMT

Washington, DC - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka, a senior member of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security, issued the following statement today after a minority of the Senate obstructed final consideration of the Cybersecurity Act of 2012 (S.3414).

"I am disappointed that some of my colleagues again blocked this critical national security legislation. We must act to protect Americans' safety, personal information, credit card numbers, intellectual property, trade secrets, and sensitive government intelligence.

"For years, my colleagues and I on the Homeland Security Committee have heard about how computer networks in the United States - both in the government and in the private sector - are under constant cyber attack. The computer control systems that operate our critical infrastructure, such as our electricity grid, water plants, and transportation systems, have been incessantly targeted as well.

"Last month, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta warned that the U.S. faced the threat of a 'cyber Pearl Harbor' and national security experts on both sides of the aisle have warned about a impending 'cyber 9/11.' As a witness to the attack on Pearl Harbor, it is frightening to know that a successful attack on a critical infrastructure control system could lead to more loss of life, injury, and damage than those terrible events. That is why I am disappointed that we once again failed to put partisan differences aside and pass this critical bill. In light of today's continued obstruction, I urge President Obama to move forward with an executive order to enhance the cybersecurity of our nation's critical infrastructure."

Today's vote to end debate on the Cybersecurity Act of 2012 failed with 51 in support and 47 in opposition. Sixty votes were needed to end debate.

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Akaka urges colleagues to holo i mua and avoid fiscal cliff

Fri, 9 Nov 2012 00:11:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka issued the following statement today:

"Now that the election is over, I call on my colleagues to put partisan politics aside and holo i mua, move forward, for the sake of our country. There is no disagreement that we must address the fiscal cliff before the end of the year. This is a problem that was created by a stalemate in Congress in the first place, so let's come together and fix it. It is our responsibility.

"Hawaii residents know that our nation must address the deficit created by two wars, tax cuts, and the economic crisis, and they want the wealthiest Americans to pay their fair share. The election offered two paths - cutting critical government functions or asking billionaires and millionaires to pay more - and voters spoke loud and clear. The election shows that the American people agree with President Obama.

"Throughout my 36 year career in Congress, I have seen too many disagreements to count. But each time, in the end, my colleagues and I found a way to put the country first. I am optimistic that, in this final session of my career, the strength of our nation and the needs of the American people will once again come before political posturing."

Senator Akaka is in office until January 2, 2013.

Address at the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:10:00 GMT

Anchorage, Alaska-- U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka, Chairman of the Indian Affairs Committee, spoke today at the Alaska Federation of Natives Annual Convention at the Dena'ina Convention Center.

Senator Akaka's remarks as prepared for delivery:

Aloha!

I am so happy to be here in Alaska and to be able to spend time with you today, as you make Success Beyond Barriers a reality.

Alaska and Hawaii have a long, successful relationship working together, both in the halls of Congress - and at home in our communities.

I am proud of all that we have accomplished together.

In Hawaii, one great example of this collaboration was the building of the Hawai'i Loa double-hulled canoe. As my people set out on this project to recover knowledge of traditional Hawaiian canoe-building, we used 400-year old Sitka spruce logs -- donated from Alaska Natives from the Southeast and the Sealaska Corporation -- in the canoe's construction.

But we know the special relationship between Alaska and Hawaii goes back much further.
We can see evidence of the historical presence of my people in your lands - in names like Chief Kaloa of Tyonek, in villages like Kiana, and in places like the Hulahula River.

Today, Alaska Native Corporations are partnering with Native Hawaiian companies to succeed in business across the Pacific.

Immersion schools are sharing successful strategies to revitalize our Native languages.

Native Hawaiian and Alaska Native leaders, young and old, are engaging in cultural exchanges and building new relationships for the future.

Throughout my career, the Hawaii and Alaska Congressional delegations have worked across party lines, in support of each other, to advance issues important to each of our non-contiguous states. Especially for our Native peoples.

Over the 36 years I have served in Congress, I have collaborated with my good friends Congressman Don Young, Senators Ted Stevens and Frank Murkowski, and now Senators Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich. We come together to pass bills and sustain programs critical to both of our unique states.

Lisa Murkowski is a powerful voice on the Indian Affairs Committee. Whether she is speaking in support of reforms in Native education, addressing health and social issues that contribute to the tragic rate of youth suicides in Native communities, or highlighting the critical role of subsistence in your daily lives, Lisa's work on behalf of Native peoples is well respected in the Senate.

In a difficult budgetary environment, Lisa has been effective as a senior member of the Appropriations Committee meeting Alaska's needs through formula funding and program eligibility.

She has proven to be a thoughtful and independent legislator, working across the aisle when necessary to advance Alaska's interests.

For example, Lisa is a strong supporter of my provisions to protect Native Women from rape and abuse - which are included in the Senate's bill to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act.

Your junior Senator Mark Begich is an up and coming member of the Senate's leadership team. He has strong character and a drive to work hard for Alaska.

We serve together on the Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee, where as Chairman he brings business and community leaders from across the country into the Senate to meet directly with us and help us chart the course forward. His voice is always there bringing Alaska's economic and social priorities to the attention of the Senate's leaders for action.

He continues to work tirelessly for Alaska Native education, health care, and jobs, highlighting the unique needs of your state like teacher housing and funding for village clinics.

Mark is also a strong advocate for our troops and veterans. We serve together on the Senate Committees on Armed Services, Veteran's Affairs, and Homeland Security.

He and I worked together to block bad legislation attacking the SBA Native 8(a) program. We accomplished this by highlighting the program's success in Alaska, Hawaii, and across the country, and its role in fulfilling the trust responsibility to Native communities.

As I prepare to leave Congress this January, I am confident that the close cooperation and partnership between Hawaii and Alaska will continue.

I want to extend my aloha to your leadership: to co-chairs Ralph Andersen and Albert Kookesh and all the rest of the AFN Board of Directors. Your board is a testament to the strength of diversity, coming together beyond regional differences to work for all Alaska Natives.

I have worked very closely with and have so much admiration for your: President Julie Kitka and Vice-President Nelson Angapak.

Julie is full of innovative approaches to solving challenges. Nelson's quiet style makes a big impact when necessary. They have been effective partners who bring the Alaska Native perspective to every conversation. Mahalo - thank you - to you all, for always working closely with me and my staff - and for the wonderful invitation to be here this week.

One thing I always notice when I meet with Alaska Natives, there are usually two or three generations in the room. The word for that is mentorship, something that has always impressed me about Alaska Native leadership.

I admire the way you have committed yourselves - to making sure the next generation of leaders are ready and prepared for the challenges they will face. By including them in your daily operations, you are helping them gain experience and skills for future success.

As you know, I have the great pleasure and responsibility of being Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.

I have focused on strengthening the identities of Native peoples, and their ability to protect their homelands. I have worked with my colleagues to make sure they understand the federal relationship with Native peoples-and its origins in the Constitution.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to you, your leadership, your organizations, and your Congressional delegation for your longstanding and unwavering support of my bill, the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act.

Senators Stevens, Murkowski, and Begich, and Congressman Young have all been cosponsors and vocal supporters of my bill, the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act.

I have also been focused on passing amendments to the Indian Reorganization Act known as the Carcieri Fix.

These bills represent a commitment to parity - to the principle that all federally-recognized Native peoples should be offered the same rights and opportunities -- and have access to the same tools.

I have seen many changes across the country, and I have been amazed at the resiliency of Native peoples, our cultures, and our languages.

Since I was a boy, the United States has grown and evolved. I have witnessed profound change in the status and treatment of all indigenous peoples.

Gone are the days when our languages were banned, when our cultures and traditions were deemed unimportant, or worse, considered liabilities.

We have proven time and time again that our Native cultures and traditions hold incredible wisdom about how best to live in harmony and build a sustainable future.

Throughout my life, and my career in public service, I have worked to bring the Hawaiian culture and the aloha spirit, love and respect, with me at all times. I have sought to remain focused on what is pono, what is right and proper. I set my goals around what can be achieved in the spirit of lokahi, unity, to holo i mua, move forward.

In these changing times, it is critical that all Native Americans - American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians - continue to stand together, and move forward together, to advance Native sovereignty and self-determination in the United States.

There is strength in that solidarity.

Native self-determination ensures the promise of Native self-sufficiency. It results in our continued ability to be productive and contribute to the well-being of our families, our communities, and our great nation.

Before I conclude, I want to encourage you all, and especially the young people in the audience today, to remember:

Live your Native values, draw courage from those who have come before you, and focus your work on advancing self-determination and self-sufficiency for all Native peoples.

Strive to extend aloha - love and respect - in all you do. You will find it returned to you.

May God bless you, your families, your Native communities, and your great state of Alaska. And may God bless the United States of America. Anabasi, Gunalchéesh, Illan Nigullu, and Kitak qua.

Like you, Native Hawaiians never like to say goodbye. We say a hui hou - until we meet again.
With warm and fond aloha, a hui hou.

-END-

Senator Akaka receives Denali Award from Alaska Federation of Natives

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:10:00 GMT

Senator Akaka accepts Denali Award from AFN. Photo courtesy of Anchorage Daily News.

ANCHORAGE, ALASKA - The Alaska Federation of Natives honored U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii) yesterday with its Denali Award. The award is the Federation's top honor for non-Alaska Native individuals who have contributed to the growth and development of the Alaska Native Community's culture, economy, and health.

"I am deeply honored and truly touched to receive this meaningful Denali award, and I am humbled to be the first person from outside of Alaska to be presented with it." said Senator Akaka. "Throughout my career, the Hawaii and Alaska Congressional delegations have worked in support of each other, to advance issues important to each of our non-contiguous states. Especially for our Native peoples.

"I believe that it is critical that all Native Americans - American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians - continue to stand together, and move forward together, to advance Native sovereignty and self-determination in the United States.

"As I prepare to leave Congress this January after 36 years of service, I am confident this bond will remain strong-and the close cooperation and partnership between Hawaii and Alaska will continue."

Today, Senator Akaka, who chairs the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, will address the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention at in the Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center at 1:30 p.m. Alaska Time (11:30 a.m. Hawaii Time, 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time). A live stream is available here: LINK

More information:

Honors luncheon: http://www.nativefederation.org/2012/10/08/afn-to-honor-sen-daniel-akaka-at-2012-convention/
Convention website: http://www.nativefederation.org/2012/10/09/akaka-washburn-attend-2012-afn-convention/

-END-

Alaska Federation of Natives to honor Chairman Akaka at annual convention

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:10:00 GMT

ANCHORAGE, ALASKA - The Alaska Federation of Natives will hold a special luncheon honoring U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii) for his decades of leadership and collaboration next Thursday, October 18 at noon in the Downtown Marriott Hotel in Anchorage.

The following day, Senator Akaka will address the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention at in the Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center, on Friday, October 19 at 1:30 p.m.

Senator Akaka is the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. This will be his first address to the convention, which is the largest annual gathering of Alaska Natives in the world.

More information:

Honors luncheon

Convention website

Convention agenda

-END-

Akaka, Collins, Feinstein, and Gillibrand release GAO report revealing serious challenges to agriculture inspection activities at U.S. ports of entry

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:10:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senators Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii), Susan M. Collins (R-Maine), Dianne Feinstein (D-California), and Kirsten E. Gillibrand (D-New York) released a U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report entitled, Homeland Security: Agriculture Inspection Program Has Made Some Improvements but Management Challenges Persist (GAO-12-885). GAO conducted a follow-up review of its 2006 report on the issue and a survey on agriculture specialists' and supervisors' view about their work.

GAO found that the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) continue to struggle with previously identified problems that could increase our nation's vulnerability to foreign pests and disease or delay international trade.

Senator Akaka said: "The agricultural inspection mission is vital to protecting our natural resources and agriculture from the introduction of foreign pests and disease. Failure to prevent their entry could have serious economic consequences for our country. While the GAO report shows that CBP and APHIS have made some progress over the past few years, critical vulnerabilities remain. It is clear that more attention must be placed on agricultural inspection operations, specifically on ensuring that CBP has sufficient resources and the personnel needed to effectively defend our nation against harmful pests and disease. I urge CBP and APHIS to fully implement GAO's recommendations."

Senator Collins said: "We need a robust program at our borders to protect the nation from harmful pests, plant and animal diseases, and biological threats. According to DHS, invasive species cause an estimated $136 billion in lost agricultural revenue per year and the possible of deliberate introduction remains heightened in this post 9/11 environment. It is encouraging that GAO found improvements with information sharing and certain agriculture inspection management functions; however, it is troubling that we are not further along. Coordination between DHS and USDA must be seamless in order to endure the security of our nation's agriculture."

Senator Feinstein said: "The Department of Homeland Security in 2008 assured me that Customs and Border Patrol would prioritize agriculture inspections. This latest GAO report proves that has not happened. I believe a standalone Office of Agriculture Inspection-either within DHS or back at USDA-is the only way agriculture inspectors will receive the tools they need to combat invasive pests and diseases. I plan to fight for the creation of this office and the funds necessary to quickly stand it up."

The GAO study revealed that DHS and USDA have improved information-sharing and the transfer of Agriculture Quarantine Inspection (AQI) program user fees that are collected for AQI services; however DHS and USDA continue to face challenges in:

Developing effective performance measures to determine progress made toward mission goals

Establishing a national risk-based staffing model to ensure that high risk ports are adequately staffed

Ensuring supervisors are trained to manage agriculture canine teams
Revising user fees to cover programs costs

The GAO's survey responses showed that CBP agriculture specialists and supervisors believe that training and information-sharing have improved, but remained concerned about:

CBP's chain of command due to poor communication regarding internal policies, supervisors' lack of agriculture experience, and the need for an agriculture chain of command separate from CBP

Competing priorities preventing them from performing their tasks and not having enough time to complete work

Their work not respected by CBP management

The lack of a career ladder for agriculture specialists supervisors and salary and benefits

GAO recommended that the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Agriculture:

Develop a strategic plan that establishes a joint mission and program goals
Identify performance measures for monitoring progress toward those goals
Improve the reliability of data regarding arrivals, inspections, and interceptions across ports

Additionally, GAO recommended that the Secretary of Homeland Security in consultation with USDA (1) ensure that the data regarding the agriculture canine program is reliable; (2) develop a plan or strategy that identifies the risk of potential fiscal constraints and determine the actions needed to mitigate that risk on sufficiently staffing ports with agriculture specialists; and (3) work with port directors to ensure that agriculture canine supervisors who have not participated in canine training or do not have experience working with canines get the training needed.

USDA and DHS concurred with GAO's recommendations.

Senator Akaka is Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs' Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia.

A copy of the GAO report is available at http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-12-885.

-END-

$300,000 grant from HUD to revitalize Kuhio Park public housing

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:10:00 GMT

      WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced today that Michaels Development Company of New Jersey will receive $300,000 to promote grassroots efforts to revitalize the public housing and transform the Kuhio Park Neighborhood in Honolulu.

      The Michaels Development Company is one of the 17 entities from across the U.S. receiving a Choice Neighborhoods Planning Grant today. The funding provides communities the resources they need to craft comprehensive, community-driven plans to revitalize public or other HUD-assisted housing and transform distressed neighborhoods.

      "This funding will enable Honolulu to further its discussions with local partners to plan strategies that will build a stronger, more sustainable community and address distressed housing, struggling schools and crime," said HUD Deputy Regional Administrator Wayne Sauseda. "HUD's Choice Neighborhoods Initiative represents the next generation in a movement toward revitalizing entire neighborhoods to improve the quality of the lives of the residents who live there."

    "I am pleased that the Administration, through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, is investing in improvements to the diverse Kuhio Park neighborhood," said Senator Daniel Akaka. "This project will help to improve quality of life for the residents of Kuhio Homes and KPT Low Rises, as well as for the entire Kuhio Park community, by repairing aging buildings and increasing transportation and access to jobs."

      HUD's Choice Neighborhoods Initiative promotes a comprehensive approach to transforming distressed areas of concentrated poverty into viable and sustainable mixed-income neighborhoods. Building on the successes of HUD's HOPE VI Program, Choice Neighborhoods links housing improvements with necessary services for the people who live there - including schools, public transit and employment opportunities.

      The awardees announced today were selected from among 72 applications. Successful applicants demonstrated their intent to plan for the transformation of neighborhoods by revitalizing severely distressed public and/or assisted housing while leveraging investments to create high-quality public schools, outstanding education and early learning programs, public assets, public transportation, and improved access to jobs and well-functioning services. HUD focused on directing resources to address three core goals:

* Housing: Transform distressed public and assisted housing into energy efficient, mixed-income housing that is physically and financially viable over the long-term;

* People: Support positive outcomes for families who live in the target development(s) and the surrounding neighborhood, particularly outcomes related to residents' health, safety, employment, mobility, and education; and

* Neighborhood: Transform neighborhoods of poverty into viable, mixed-income neighborhoods with access to well-functioning services, high quality public schools and education programs, high quality early learning programs and services, public assets, public transportation, and improved access to jobs.

      The grantees will use the funding to work with local stakeholders - public and/or assisted housing residents, community members, businesses, institutions and local government officials - to undertake a successful neighborhood transformation to create a "choice neighborhood." The awardees will use the funding to create a comprehensive Transformation Plan, or road map, to transforming distressed public and/or assisted housing within a distressed community.

      Choice Neighborhoods is one of the signature programs of the White House Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative, which supports innovative, holistic strategies that bring public and private partners together to help break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. Choice Neighborhoods encourages collaboration between HUD and the Departments of Education, Justice, Treasury and Health and Human Services to support local solutions for sustainable, mixed-income neighborhoods with the affordable housing, safe streets and good schools all families need.

      Congress approved the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative with the passage of HUD's FY2010 budget. Funding is provided through two separate programs - Implementation Grants and Planning Grants. With this announcement, HUD has awarded a total of $12.55 million in Planning Grants to 46 cities or counties. See past Planning grantees list here.

      Choice Neighborhoods Implementation grants are awarded to entities that have completed a comprehensive local planning process and are ready to move forward with their Transformation Plan to redevelop their target housing and neighborhoods. In August, HUD announced the nine finalists that will compete for approximately $110 million in 2012 Choice Neighborhoods Implementation grants to transform public and other HUD-assisted housing in targeted neighborhoods. Teams recently completed site visits as part of the application review process to determine which of the finalists will receive Implementation grants.

      Last year, HUD awarded its first CN Implementation grants for Chicago, Boston, New Orleans, San Francisco and Seattle, a combined $122.27 million investment to bring comprehensive neighborhood revitalization to blighted areas in these cities.

###

HUD's mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. HUD is working to strengthen the housing market to bolster the economy and protect consumers; meet the need for quality affordable rental homes: utilize housing as a platform for improving quality of life; build inclusive and sustainable communities free from discrimination; and transform the way HUD does business. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and http://espanol.hud.gov. You can also follow HUD on twitter @HUDnews, on facebook at www.facebook.com/HUD, or sign up for news alerts on HUD's News Listserv

FY2012 CHOICE NEIGHBORHOODS PLANNING GRANT AWARD INFORMATION

Honolulu, HI

Choice Neighborhoods Lead Grantee: The Michaels Development Company I, LP
Choice Neighborhoods Co-Grantee: Hawaii Public Housing Authority
Target Public Housing Project: Kuhio Homes and KPT Low Rises
Target Neighborhood: Kuhio Park Neighborhood
Choice Neighborhoods Grant Amount: $300,000

Key Partners:
EJP Consulting Group (Planning Coordinator), Governor's Office, Hawaii State Legislature, Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation, City and County of Honolulu, Kalihi Palama Neighborhood Board No. 15, Department of Human Services, Department of Education, Department of Transportation, Honolulu Police Department, Parents & Children Together, Kokua Kalihi Valley Comprehensive Family Services, Hawaii Literacy, Faith Action for Community Equity, and Pioneering Communities.

Project Summary:
The reality of life for residents at Kuhio Homes and KPT Low Rises, two severely distressed public housing developments in the Kuhio Park neighborhood of Honolulu, is drastically different from what many people envision when they dream of Hawaii. In the high cost housing market of Hawaii, the need for affordable housing is significant. The median annual income in Hawaii is roughly $50,000 while housing costs average $500,000. The Kuhio Park neighborhood contains the largest remaining number of public housing units in the state of Hawaii and is suffering from old age and blight. The neighborhood also suffers from high crime rates around Kuhio Homes and KPT Low Rises, low performing schools, and a long-term vacancy rate more than nine times that of the surrounding county of Honolulu.

Michaels Development Company and its team envision a plan that provides the community and public housing residents access to the resources needed to live a healthy, safe, and sustainable life in the 21st Century. The planning activities will include detailed resident needs and community asset assessments; specialized Task Forces with key thought leaders for each Plan element; meaningful engagement of the multi-lingual and culturally rich resident population and community groups in results-oriented workshops; and preparation of a Transformation Plan that identifies specific activities, partners, funding sources, timeline, and measurable outcomes.

Ultimately the Choice Neighborhoods planning process will result in a plan to provide residents with more transportation choices; enhance economic competitiveness for residents and businesses; and value the community by investing in healthy, safe and walkable neighborhoods.

Hawaii Filipino Community Center 10th Anniversary Bayanihan Gala Dinner

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:10:00 GMT

Hilton Hawaiian Village Coral Ballroom

Mabuhay! Aloha!

Salamat po - mahalo - for honoring me here tonight at your 10th Anniversary Bayanihan Gala Dinner.

It is fitting that tonight's theme is "PAGDIRIWANG AT PASASALAMAT," -- "celebration and appreciation," because those are the feelings that I would most like to share with you tonight. Let's celebrate all we have accomplished together for the Filipino community.

Hawaii would not be Hawaii without Filipinos. You bring so much to our diverse islands. Everyone in Hawaii enjoys Filipino culture. You contribute to our community. And you all look great tonight in your Filipino formal attire!

Salamat to everyone at the Fil Com Center for your tireless advocacy for the Filipino Community. In particular, it has been a pleasure to work with you to honor the World War II Filipino veterans who helped our nation achieve victory.

The Filipinos served with distinction under United States command and deserve to be remembered forever for their heroic acts and bravery on behalf of our nation.

I consider it one of my career highlights that, with your help, we were able to enact a law that finally honors them for their service to our nation.

As a veteran of World War II, I believe in the soldier's creed, leave no man behind.

The United States has a moral obligation to look after those who have served.

The commitment we make to those men and women -- when they sacrifice for our freedom -- is among the most sacred duties our country has.

As many of you know, in 1941, over 200,000 Filipinos were conscripted into the United States armed services. And they rose to the challenge, serving honorably during World War II, and helping us defeat imperial Japan.

They put their lives on the line to help us win the war.

Sadly, just five years later, a national tragedy occurred when Congress stripped the Filipino veterans of veteran status in the United States -- and with it the benefits that they earned through their service. I have always felt this was an injustice that must be corrected.

In the decades that followed, members of the Filipino community worked tirelessly to secure restitution and provide equity for all the Filipino veterans.

The first major victory came in the Immigration Act of 1990, which included a provision that gave the World War II veterans who were still Filipino citizens an opportunity to obtain U.S. citizenship.

In 2007, when I took over the Chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I made fixing this injustice a priority of the committee.

I authored several bills to help our Filipino veterans, including the Veterans Benefits Enhancement Act, which would have provided a monthly pension to Filipino World War II veterans.

I got this bill passed through the Senate, over the objections of the top Republican on the Veterans Committee.

He accused me of trying to take money from American veterans to help the Filipinos, whom he pointed out are foreign nationals - ignoring of course the valiant heroism they displayed under U.S. command, the fact that we had made a commitment to care for them, and the reality that time was running out to honor them.

I also authored the Filipino Family Reunification Act. This bill would allow World War II veterans who took advantage of past opportunities to gain U.S. citizenship -- to bring their children over here to the U.S. with them.

It would allow these honorable veterans to live out their golden years surrounded by their families in this great nation they fought to defend.

Though Congress has unfortunately failed to pass any meaningful immigration reform in recent years, I will continue to advocate for this bill for the rest of my term, and I expect my colleagues on the Hawaii Congressional Delegation to continue the fight.

In 2009, I helped develop a provision which was enacted into law -- as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act -- that granted recognition for their service under U.S. command and authorized the payment of benefits to the 30-thousand surviving Filipino veterans.

I wish that this recognition could have been achieved sooner, when more of them were living, but I am grateful for that fact that now -- their honor is enshrined forever in law -- and will never be forgotten by our grateful nation.

It wasn't easy, but with the help of the Filipino Community, we accomplished this together.

I count myself among the many, many Americans who are eternally grateful for what they did. Let's have a round of applause to thank our World War II Filipino veterans.

In closing, I want to say that it has been a true honor and privilege to serve and represent you in Congress for 36 years. Salamat for your trust and faith in me throughout my career.

I have been blessed over the years to have so much support from the Filipino community. I express my salamat for all the work you have done with me, my staff, and the entire Hawaii Congressional delegation, to make many of our goals a reality.

I wish you the best of luck and I extend my warmest aloha as you continue forward, supporting Hawaii's Filipino community, honoring our veterans, and making Hawaii a better place.

Maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat!

God bless you. God bless Hawaii. God bless the Philippines. And God bless the United States of America.

-END-

Senator Akaka gives final speech to the Native Hawaiian Convention

Fri, 5 Oct 2012 00:10:00 GMT

Waikiki, Hawaii - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka, Chairman of the Indian Affairs Committee, spoke today at the annual Native Hawaiian Convention at the Hawai'i Convention Center. Senator Akaka has spoken at every Native Hawaiian Convention since its inception in 2001, and this was his last one as a sitting U.S. Senator, as he retires in January. Akaka is the first Native Hawaiian ever to serve in the U.S. Senate and third to serve in Congress.

Senator Akaka's remarks as prepared for delivery:

Aloha! It is so good to be home! Mahalo for inviting me to join you at this year's Native Hawaiian Convention.

Mahalo nui loa to Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement Chairman Alvin Parker and President Robin Danner for their leadership in organizing this annual convention. Mahalo nui loa to all of you, who are attending this convention in record numbers. By coming together as a community, to listen to different mana'o, kūkākūkā, and holo i mua, we can achieve this year's convention theme: "Moving Forward-Our People, Our Land, Our Spirit."

I am so proud to say that I have joined you here at this convention every year since the beginning. As you know, after 36 years of service in Congress, I am retiring at the end of this year.

Throughout my career, I have been inspired by the leaders who came before me. I hope to inspire the leaders who will follow. I'm proud to be the first Native Hawaiian in the U.S. Senate, and even more proud to be the third to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives.

After Hawaii was annexed to the United States of America, Robert Wilcox was elected as a territorial delegate to the House in 1900. Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana'ole represented Hawai'i from 1903 to 1921. Both men had been jailed with Queen Lili'uokalani and sentenced to death for trying to reinstate the Queen after the illegal overthrow. But they didn't give up, they used the American political system to help our people. They were elected because Native Hawaiians voted and made sure we had representation in the United States Congress.

In the early 1900s, these men lived in times of deep segregation in the United States, when Hawaii was still reeling from the aftermath of the illegal overthrow and rapid political change. Both Congressman Robert Wilcox and Congressman Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana'ole found motivation to work towards self-sufficiency for our people so that we could once again thrive, be productive and contribute to our families, our communities, and our island home.

Throughout my career in Congress I have built upon the achievements of these two men, and I have drawn inspiration and courage from them. Through it all, I have carried our culture and our aloha with me. I have tried to remain focused on what is pono, and set my goals around what can be achieved in the spirit of lokahi.

I have seen so many changes in Hawai'i and across the country, and I have been amazed at the resiliency of our Native Hawaiian people, our culture, and our language. Since I was a boy, the United States has grown and evolved. I have witnessed profound change in the status and treatment of all indigenous peoples.

Gone are the days when teaching our language was banned, when our culture and traditions were deemed unimportant. We now know that our language, culture, and traditions hold incredible wisdom about how best to live in this place we call Hawaii.

This Congress, I have had the great pleasure and responsibility of leading the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. I have focused on strengthening the identities of Native peoples, and their ability to protect their homelands. I have worked with my colleagues to make sure they understand the federal relationship with Native peoples and its origins in the Constitution.

When it was written, the broad terms Indian and tribe were used in the Constitution to mean indigenous peoples, with their diversity of unique cultures, languages and traditions. Each with their own ways of governing themselves. The consistent use of these terms Indian and tribe results in the federal government treating all federally-recognized Native peoples equally, with the same tools to address the unique needs and priorities in their own communities.

It is long past time for the Native Hawaiian people to have the same rights, the same privileges, and the same opportunities as every other federally-recognized Native people. That is why I am working tirelessly to secure parity in federal policy for our people. My bill, the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act, gives us full access to the prevailing federal policy on self-determination, and the ability to once again exercise our right to be self-governing.

For more than 12 years, I have worked with our community and other stakeholders to develop the terms of this bill.
I have listened carefully to all sides, and I am determined to do what is best for all of Hawaii, by ensuring Native Hawaiians a true avenue for reconciliation.

Last month, the Indian Affairs Committee passed my amended bill, which builds upon State of Hawaii Act 195 that created the Native Hawaiian Roll Commission. The amendment removes the sections of my bill about creating and certifying the roll of qualified Native Hawaiian constituents, because that process is already underway here in the islands, and streamlines my bill down to its essential parts.

As Chairman of the Indian Affairs Committee, this version of the bill represents my best mana'o on how to secure the future of our people, by ensuring we are afforded the same rights and opportunities as all other federally-recognized Native peoples-no more, no less.

I was proud to be the first person to sign up for the Kana?iolowalu registry - the new roll of Native Hawaiian voters. If you haven't already, I urge you to do the same, to participate in this incredible process to re-organize our Native Hawaiian government. I'm told there is a booth here where you can sign up, or you can visit their website. I truly believe that as the indigenous people of Hawaii, our ability to chart our own course and define our own future will never be secure until we have parity with all other Native peoples.

My amended bill sets a proper foundation for the reorganization of a Native Hawaiian government -- which will have a government-to-government relationship with the United States and the State of Hawaii. This version of my bill is the best way forward.

In these changing times, it is critical that all Native Americans - American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians - continue to stand together, and move forward together, to advance Native sovereignty and self-determination in the United States. There is strength in solidarity.

Native self-governance leads to Native self-sufficiency, resulting in our continued ability to be productive and contribute to the well-being of our families, our communities, and our great nation. It is in this spirit that I worked to secure passage of the Apology Resolution. I will continue to fight every day I am in Congress for passage of the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act.

I know I am just one in a long line working to ensure that our language, our culture, and our people continue to thrive for generations to come. I understand my kuleana is to advance our rights, and to help prepare the next generation to take up their kuleana - to advance the causes of our people.

I think often of our beloved Queen Lili'uokalani, her character, and her words. She said:
I could not turn back the time for the political change, but there is still time to save our heritage. You must remember never to cease to act because you fear you may fail.

These words have guided my conduct and service over the years.

Serving as your Senator has been my greatest privilege, honor, and duty. I am thankful to all the people of Hawai'i for putting their trust in me. This voyage we are on together, advancing the cause of our people, is far from over.

Like those who set the course before you: Grab your paddle and hoe a mau. There may be rough seas along the way, but I am confident that you possess the ability to successfully navigate our people into the future.

It is important to remember to live Hawaiian values, draw courage from those that have come before you, and focus your work on advancing self-determination and self-sufficiency. Prepare yourself, learn new skills, work hard, so you can make contributions to your community, to your state, to your country, and to our people. Strive to extend aloha in all you do. You will find it returned to you.

E ke Akua ho'omaika'i ia oukou. E ke Akua ho'omaika'i ia Hawai'i. E ke Akua ho'omaika'i ia Amelika. God Bless you, God Bless Hawai'i, and God Bless the United States of America.

Me ke aloha pumehana, a hui hou.

-END-

Akaka to speak at Native Hawaiian Convention

Wed, 3 Oct 2012 00:10:00 GMT

Honolulu, Hawaii - Tomorrow, October 4, U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka will address the 11th annual Native Hawaiian Convention at 2:30 p.m. in the Hawai'i Convention Center.

Senator Akaka has spoken at every Native Hawaiian Convention since its inception in 2001. This will be his final address to the convention as a sitting U.S. Senator, as he retires in January. Akaka is the first Native Hawaiian ever in the U.S. Senate and third to serve in Congress.

Click here for the convention website (Senator Akaka's speech time is not listed on the published agenda)

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House passes bipartisan Whistleblower Protection bill

Mon, 1 Oct 2012 00:10:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - The U.S. House of Representatives unanimously approved the Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2012 (S. 743), as amended, this past Friday, September 28, 2012. The legislation strengthens the Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA) to better protect federal employees who come forward to disclose government waste, fraud, abuse, and other wrongdoing. The bill will now head to the Senate for consideration.

The legislation, authored by Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawai'i), is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Joe Lieberman (ID-Connecticut), Carl Levin (D-Michigan), Tom Carper (D-Delaware), Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont), Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), Mark Pryor (D-Arkansas), Mary Landrieu (D-Louisiana), Claire McCaskill (D-Missouri), Jon Tester (D-Montana), Mark Begich (D-Alaska), Ben Cardin (D-Maryland), and Chris Coons (D-Delaware).

Representatives Darrell Issa (R-California), Elijah Cummings (D-Maryland), Todd Russell Platts (R-Pennsylvania), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland) were instrumental in moving the bill through the House of Representatives.

Senator Akaka said: "Protecting whistleblowers is essential for effective, accountable government. Reforming whistleblower protections has been a priority of mine for years. Federal employees and the American people must feel confident that those with the courage to come forward to disclose wrongdoing will be protected."

Senator Collins said: "Congress has consistently supported the principle that federal employees should not be subject to prior restraint or punishment from disclosing wrongdoing. This should give federal workers the peace of mind that if they speak out, they will be protected. Full whistleblower protections will also help ensure that Congress and our committee have access to the information necessary to conduct proper oversight."

Senator Grassley said: "While the House bill includes much needed updates to the law, and should easily clear the Senate, I'm disappointed the bill fails to include the much needed assistance for intelligence community whistleblowers that was included in the Senate passed bill. We'll continue to fight for additional improvements to ensure these patriotic citizens receive the protection they deserve for uncovering the skeletons hiding deep in the bureaucracy."

Senator Lieberman said: "Whistleblowers are key to improving the performance of the federal government and must be protected for having the courage to speak out about waste, fraud, and abuse. Without these protections, those closest to the problems will remain silent for fear of retaliation, and American taxpayers will pay the price."

The legislation would:

clarify that any disclosure of gross waste or mismanagement, fraud, abuse, or illegal activity may be protected, but not disagreements over legitimate policy decisions;
suspend the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals sole jurisdiction over federal employee whistleblower cases for two years;
extend WPA coverage and other non-discrimination and anti-retaliatory laws to all employees of the Transportation Security Administration;
clarify that whistleblowers may disclose evidence of censorship of scientific or technical information under the same standards that apply to disclosures of other kinds of waste, fraud, and abuse;
codify the anti-gag provision that has been part of every Transportation-Treasury Appropriations bill since 1988;
establish Whistleblower Protection Ombudsmen to educate agency personnel about whistleblower rights; and
provide the Office of Special Counsel with the independent right to file "friend of the court" briefs, or amicus briefs, with federal courts.

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