Congressman wants Aloha wear allowed on House floor

WASHINGTON -- A Hawaii Congressman wants Aloha wear to be allowed on the House floor on Fridays, a change from the current rule that requires full business attire.

U.S. Rep. Mark Takai, a Hawaii Democrat, said in a letter to Speaker of the House Paul Ryan that his office observes Aloha Fridays by wearing Hawaiian shirts - the loose-fitting button-downs featuring flora, ukuleles, surfers, and other Hawaii themes.

Takai wrote that allowing Aloha shirts would support small business and promote a Friday custom that is unique to Hawaii. Takai is the ranking member of the House Small Business Committee's Subcommittee on Contracting and the Workforce.

He said Washington, D.C., could use more of the Aloha spirit, which embraces diversity, inclusion and friendliness.