hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Requires the VA to establish a new national cemetery in Hawai`i.
Senator Hirono (D-HI)
Introduced in Senate, sent to committee.
This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to create a new national cemetery in Hawai`i. It was introduced by Senator Mazie Hirono, a Democrat representing Hawai`i, who serves on the Senate Armed Services and Energy and Natural Resources committees, among others. The bill has been introduced in the Senate and referred to the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs for consideration.
Introduced Jan 12, 2026
The bill was introduced in the Senate on January 12, 2026, and sent to the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs. It must pass through this committee, then be voted on by the full Senate, then pass the House of Representatives, and finally be signed by the President to become law. There are no known dates for committee hearings or votes yet.
Currently, Hawai`i's only national cemetery has been closed to casketed burials since 1991 and will stop accepting cremated remains by 2036. This bill would ensure that veterans in Hawai`i preferring inground national cemetery burial wouldn't need to travel over 2,500 miles, significantly reducing financial and logistical burdens for them and their families. The Department of Veterans Affairs would be required to identify suitable sites and provide annual progress reports on the cemetery's development until it becomes operational.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue this bill ensures equitable burial access for Hawai`i veterans, addressing significant travel and cost burdens for families.
Critics Say
The bill text does not outline specific criticisms.
Those in favor highlight that the current situation forces Hawai`i veterans to choose cemeteries thousands of miles away for certain burial options, creating undue hardship. They believe a new national cemetery in Hawai`i would align with the VA's goal of ensuring 95% of veterans live within 75 miles of a veterans' cemetery and would fulfill a long-standing need for local access to these benefits. The bill text does not include any arguments against the proposal.