Congress decided Wednesday to adjourn until Nov. 14 because of major disagreements over money bills. Akaka's bill hasn't even made it to the Senate floor yet.

The proposed bill would grant Hawaiians federal recognition, and set up a process for Hawaiians to form their own government with relations with the United States similar to Indian tribes.

Hawaii's senators are still working to get the Akaka bill passed with unanimous consent, said Akaka spokesman Paul Cardus.

But he said Akaka and Sen. Dan Inouye would consider attaching the Hawaiian recognition proposal to another bill if that is what it takes to get it passed.

When Congress resumes Nov. 14, lawmakers have until Jan. 3 at the latest to get their business done, because that's when the new Congress will be sworn in.