HONOLULU -- Hawaii's Congressional delegates said they are optimistic the Hawaiian-recognition bill will make it through the U.S. Senate and House, but only with nonpartisan support in Washington and in the islands.

Sen. Daniel Inouye and U.S. Reps. Ed Case and Neil Abercrombie briefed state legislators on a tentative timetable for the bill, also known as the Akaka Bill after Sen. Daniel Akaka. A Senate debate and vote is expected by August. A House vote could happen in September.

The biggest obstacle is the influence of the White House, despite their efforts to clarify the issue as nonpartisan, they said.

Another challenge is the divisiveness of Hawaiian groups at home.

"There are those who believe that this should go further. There are those at one extreme that would seek independence. Such things would never be granted," Inouye said.

"Hayden Burgess says while the Akaka Bill falls short of what he wants, it's a step to what he envisions, what his dream is of independence. Ultimately, it's not an either or, it's an and," Office of Hawaiian Affairs Chairwoman Haunani Apoliona said.

Inouye, Abercrombie and Case believe there's a very good chance the bill will be passed this year.

Akaka, who was on Maui during the meeting, emphasized that the bill is all about recognition, not redress. In a written statement, he urged Native Hawaiians to move forward for a better future.