Hawaii Senate Bill SR188

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22

Caption

Urging Members Of The United States Congress To Enact Federal Legislation Granting Statehood To The People Of Washington, D.c.

Impact

If SR188 passes, it would serve as a formal position of the State of Hawaii in support of D.C. statehood. The resolution points out that residents of the District have expressed strong support for statehood, as evidenced by an 86% majority in a referendum. The passage of this resolution by Hawaii's legislature could apply political pressure at the federal level, potentially influencing other states and Congress members to reconsider the representation of D.C. citizens.

Summary

Senate Resolution 188 urges the United States Congress to enact federal legislation granting statehood to the residents of Washington, D.C. The bill highlights the long history of disenfranchisement faced by D.C. residents, who, despite paying federal taxes and serving in the military, lack full representation in congressional matters. With a population comparable to several existing states, it emphasizes the unfairness of their current status and advocates for equal rights and representation in governance.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the statehood movement include ongoing debates about the political implications of admitting D.C. as a state. Critics argue that this could shift the balance of power in Congress, while proponents assert that denying D.C. statehood is a violation of democratic principles. Also, the resolution mentions external validations of D.C.’s plight from various international bodies, framing the issue not only as a local concern but one of national and international significance.