(AP) — A Native Hawaiian congressman announced this week introduction of legislation to change requirements for passing down Hawaiian homestead leases to relatives. About 200,000 acres of land across Hawaii are reserved for Native Hawaiian people who have at least 50% Hawaiian blood. U.S. Rep. Kaialiʻi Kahele wants to lower blood quantum requirements from 1/4 to 1/32 for passing down leases to spouses, children, grandchildren and siblings. Hawaii Public Radio reports the blood quantum policy in the 1921 Hawaiian Homes Commission Act is a divisive issue in the Native Hawaiian community.
© copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved
