Washington, DC

(HONOLULU, Hawai’i)–Following the successful grassroots efforts during the recent Iowa and Nevada caucuses, efforts to make the District of Columbia the 51st state were advanced recently by leaders in the Hawaii State Senate.

Hawaii Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 34 was introduced by Senator Clarence Nishihara (D) and co-sponsored by Senators Will Espero (D), Gil Keith-Agaran (D), Suzanne Chun Oakland (D) and Lorraine Inouye (D).

It urges members of the United States Congress to enact federal legislation or propose a constitutional amendment granting budget autonomy, legislative autonomy and statehood to the District of Columbia.

“I believe all citizens of the United States should have proper representation,” said Sen. Nishihara. “Introducing this resolution allows taxpaying Americans to not only have a seat at the table, but a voice at the table.”  
 
DC’s U.S. Senator Paul Strauss, (D-DC/Shadow) greeted the effort with enthusiasm.  “As the hopeful 51st state, knowing we have the support of our fellow American’s from the 50th state means a great deal to our effort,” Strauss said.

SCR 34 is awaiting referral to committee for a hearing.  A copy of the resolution is attached.