Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2001

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection and Housing, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 272, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination from the Representative from the Twenty-fifth District, Governor's Executive Assistant and Special Advisor for Technology Development, Chair of the Public Utilities Commission, State Comptroller, Kauai Economic Development Board, The Estate of James Campbell, Hawaii Technology Trade Association, and two individuals.

David M. Morihara holds a degree in economics from the University of Hawaii and is President of Morihara, Inc., a retail establishment. Mr. Morihara served in the State House of Representatives for ten years, chairing the House Committees on Agriculture and Higher Education, and serving as Vice-Chair of the House Committees on Economic Development and Business Concerns and Consumer Protection and Commerce. As a legislator Mr. Morihara was instrumental in guiding legislation in the areas of utility regulation, commerce, the economy, high technology, finance, and education.

Upon review of the testimony and statement submitted by the nominee, your Committee finds that the nominee has the necessary character, experience, and qualifications to serve on the Public Utilities Commission.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection and Housing that is attached to this report, your Committee, after full consideration of the background, character, experience, and qualifications of the nominee, has found the nominee to be qualified for the position to which nominated and recommends that the Senate advise and consent to the nomination.