STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3742

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 826

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirtieth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2020

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 826, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

Disability and Communication Access Board

G.M. No. 826

GERALD OHTA, for a term to expire 06-30-2024,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Gerald Ohta for service on the Disability and Communication Access Board.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Gerald Ohta from the Disability and Communication Access Board and six individuals.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Mr. Ohta's background and dedication to serving the public qualify him to be appointed to the Disability and Communication Access Board. Your Committee notes that Mr. Ohta is currently the Affirmative Action Officer in the Office of Planning, Policy, and Program Development for the Hawaii State Department of Health and has served as the State Agency Representative and Vice-Chair of the State Language Access Advisory Council. Mr. Ohta is also highly active in the community as a member of the American Public Health Association and Hawaii Public Health Association. Your Committee finds that Mr. Ohta has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of board members and his extensive experience in language access and public health will enhance the effectiveness of the Disability and Communication Access Board. Your Committee further notes that according to testimony from the Disability and Communication Access Board, Mr. Ohta has been designated to serve on the Board as an individual with a disability. Your Committee therefore recommends that Mr. Ohta be appointed to the Disability and Communication Access Board based on his knowledge, background, and dedication to public service.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health 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 Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health,

____________________________

ROSALYN H. BAKER, Chair