STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1554

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:    GOV. MSG. NO. 559

Honorable Colleen Hanabusa

President of the Senate

Twenty-Fifth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2009

State of Hawaii

Madam:

     Your Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 559, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of: 

Crime Victim Compensation Commission

G.M. No. 559

L. DEW KANESHIRO, for a term to expire 6-30-2013,

begs leave to report as follows:

     Your Committee received testimony in support of this nomination from two state agencies, one private agency, and five individuals.  Your Committee also received a written statement and biographical information from the nominee.  Written testimony presented to the Committee may be reviewed on the Legislature's website.

     Your Committee finds that this nominee has a strong background in the judicial system, with twenty years of experience as an attorney, court administrator, and consultant.  Your Committee finds that this nominee possesses a good understanding of the functions of the Crime Victim Compensation Commission and will bring a valuable perspective to the Commission.  This nominee's experience working with non-English-speaking populations and other groups that are traditionally underserved by the judicial system give her a deep understanding of access issues and diverse points of view.  Further, your Committee finds that this nominee's work with government agencies, victim service organizations, court interpreters, prosecutors, police, and community organizations has allowed her to view the entire criminal justice system and to gain an understanding of crime victims' experience interacting with the various institutions and processes. 

     Your Committee finds that this nominee will be able to make clear and consistent decisions as a member of the Crime Victim Compensation Commission.  Further, your Committee finds that this nominee is knowledgeable about the impact of violent crime on individuals and will be sensitive and compassionate in dealing with these individuals.  Finally, your Committee finds that this nominee was nominated based on her experience, knowledge, and commitment to public service. 

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee, after full consideration of the background, 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.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs,

____________________________

WILL ESPERO, Chair