The House version of a bill appropriating military construction spending — including $400 million at Hawaii bases — easily passed today, 421-4.

The measure was supported by both Hawaii representatives, Colleen Hanabusa and Tulsi Gabbard. The prospect of bringing home defense dollars is particularly important for Hanabusa, who is seeking to win the Senate seat held by another champion of defense spending, the late Sen. Daniel Inouye. She’ll no doubt trumpet the measure as she runs against Sen. Brian Schatz.

In a statement, Hanabusa said, the spending would mean, “better facilities for our servicemen and women, and more jobs for Hawaii workers. During a time where we need to tighten our economic belts, this bill seeks to save money where it can without hurting critical investments.” 

Photo courtesy Official U.S. Navy Imagery.

— Kery Murakami