Legislative Activity

This bill expresses support for designating February 2025 as "Hawaiian Language Month" or "'Olelo Hawai'i Month" to recognize and celebrate the Hawaiian language (lelo Hawaii). It acknowledges the historical suppression of lelo Hawaii and the ongoing revitalization efforts. The bill also commits to preserving, protecting, and promoting the use, practice, and development of lelo Hawaii, urging all people in the United States to participate in celebrating lelo Hawaii Month.

The "Continued Rapid Ohia Death Response Act of 2025" aims to combat the spread of Rapid Ohia Death, a disease affecting Ohia trees in Hawaii, through collaborative efforts between the Department of Interior, the Department of Agriculture, and the State of Hawaii. It directs continued research into the disease's spread, management of ungulates in affected areas, and financial aid for prevention and restoration efforts. The Act also provides support to the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry for ongoing research.

The Strengthening Pathways to Health Professions Act aims to encourage more individuals to enter the healthcare field by providing significant tax relief. This bill specifically makes certain loan repayments and scholarships received through various Public Health Service and state programs tax-free income. These changes apply to programs designed to increase the number of health professionals serving in underserved areas.

This bill recognizes the 125th anniversary of Okinawan immigration to the United States and the significant contributions of Okinawan Americans to various sectors of American society. It reaffirms the cultural ties between the United States and Okinawa. The bill also encourages the people of the United States to commemorate this anniversary with appropriate programs and activities.