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HI HR160
Resolution
Status
3/11/2022
Primary Sponsor
Cedric Gates
Click for details
AI Summary
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Recognizes the historical and ongoing contributions of Compact of Free Association (COFA) migrants from Palau, Marshall Islands, and Federated States of Micronesia to Hawaii, including over 25,000 currently residing in the state and an estimated $336.2 million contribution to Hawaii's GDP in 2017.
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Condemns racial, cultural discrimination, violence, and defamation against COFA citizens and acknowledges their higher per capita service rates in the U.S. Armed Forces.
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Recognizes the geo-strategic importance of the Freely Associated States to U.S. national security and Hawaii, particularly against Chinese influence expansion in the Pacific region.
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Urges the President of the United States and Congress to appoint a lead negotiator to complete stalled COFA renegotiations before expiration dates (Federated States of Micronesia and Marshall Islands in 2023; Palau in 2024).
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Requests the Governor implement programs to combat discrimination against Pacific Island communities, including expanding language access and countering bullying of COFA students in public schools.
Legislative Description
Celebrating The Ties Between Hawaii And The Freely Associated States And Urging The President Of The United States And United States Congress To Appoint A Lead Negotiator To Revitalize And Finalize The Stalled Renegotiation Of The Compacts Of Free Association Prior To The Compacts' Expiration.
Recognition
Last Action
Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on JHA with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Eli, Todd, Woodson, Yamane excused (4).
3/29/2022