Under Questioning From Schatz, Defense Secretary Testifies Red Hill Certification, Defueling, Shut Down On Track, Reiterates Commitment To Never Use Facility For Fuel Operations Again
Schatz Submits Recent Red Hill Unified Statement From Hawai‘i State, City Leaders For The Official Record
WASHINGTON – At a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense hearing this morning, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) questioned Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on defueling Red Hill, COFA negotiations coordination, and on the defense of Hawai‘i.
“Can you reassure the people of Hawai‘i that Red Hill will never be used for fuel storage or fuel operations once it is emptied?” Senator Schatz asked Secretary Austin.
Secretary Austin responded, “Yes. When I made that decision, that was my intent, Senator. And also thank you for everything you and the delegation have done to help us move forward.”
Schatz then asked, “Are you on track to send your certification to Congress that our Indo-Pacific fuel needs won’t be adversely impacted by the closure?”
“Yes. We are on track,” Secretary Austin responded.
Full video of Senator Schatz’s exchange with Secretary Austin is available here.
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