Hawai‘i National Cemetery Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Case, Ed [D-HI-1]
- Committees
- Veterans' Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 25, 2026
Bottom line
H.R. 6921 requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to establish a new national cemetery in Hawai'i to address the limited burial options for veterans in the state.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a new national cemetery in the State of Hawai'i. It outlines criteria for site selection, prioritizing locations near population centers, accessible by transportation, and with minimal environmental impact. The bill also requires the Secretary to consult with local stakeholders and submit regular reports to Congress on the progress of the cemetery's establishment, from site identification to operational readiness.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the bill is essential to ensure equitable access to national burial benefits for veterans residing in Hawai'i. They highlight that the existing National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific is nearly at capacity, forcing Hawaiian veterans to choose burial sites thousands of miles away. Establishing a new cemetery aligns with the National Cemetery Administration's goals of having 95% of veterans within 75 miles of a cemetery and provides a dignified, accessible option for those who served.
Opponents contend
Opponents, if any, might raise concerns about the significant costs associated with establishing a new national cemetery, especially given the availability of State Veterans Cemeteries in Hawai'i. They might argue that federal resources could be better allocated to other veteran services or that the existing state options sufficiently meet the needs, questioning the necessity of a new federal facility when budget constraints are a factor. However, no specific opposition is explicitly stated in the bill text.
The bill is short and straightforward, allowing for a quick and thorough understanding of its provisions within a few minutes.
Section 3(a)
Establishment of New National Cemetery
This provision legally requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a new national cemetery within the State of Hawai'i. This mandate is to be carried out in accordance with existing laws governing national cemeteries (chapter 24 of title 38, United States Code) and environmental regulations (National Environmental Policy Act of 1969). This is the core operative command of the entire bill, setting the primary objective for the VA.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision directly addresses the critical need for national burial options in Hawai'i, fulfilling a commitment to veterans who currently face prohibitive distances for in-ground national cemetery burials. It ensures equity with veterans in the continental U.S.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against the principle of providing burial benefits to veterans. Potential arguments against this specific provision might focus on the cost and logistical challenges of establishing a new federal facility versus expanding existing state options.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension is between ensuring equitable access to national burial benefits for Hawaiian veterans and the significant financial and logistical investment required to establish a new federal cemetery in a high-cost, geographically isolated state.
Section 3(b)
Site Selection Criteria and Consultation
This section directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on how to choose the location for the new cemetery. It establishes specific priorities, including proximity to population centers, accessibility via existing transportation, and minimizing environmental impact. Furthermore, it mandates consultation with key local stakeholders, such as the Governor of Hawai'i and local veterans service organizations, to ensure community input and appropriate site selection.
Section 3(c)
Reporting Requirements to Congress
This provision establishes a timeline for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to report to Congress on the progress of the new national cemetery. Within one year of the bill's enactment, a report identifying potential sites must be submitted. Subsequently, annual progress reports are required until the cemetery becomes operational, detailing advancements in site selection, environmental assessment, land acquisition, design, construction, and the commencement of operations. This ensures congressional oversight and accountability throughout the development process.