STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3897

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 670

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2024

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Health and Human Services, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 670, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

Hawaii Children's Trust Fund Advisory Board

G.M. No. 670

WENDY BOTELHO-CORTEZ, for a term to expire 06-30-2027,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Wendy Botelho-Cortez for service on the Hawaii Children's Trust Fund Advisory Board.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Wendy Botelho-Cortez from the YMCA of Honolulu, Hilo Y's Men & Women's Club, Zonta Club of Hilo, Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and six individuals.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Botelho-Cortez's background and dedication to advancing youth and strengthening families in the State qualify her to be appointed to the Hawaii Children's Trust Fund Advisory Board as a member appointed by the Governor from a list of seven names submitted by the Hawaii Community Foundation. Your Committee notes that Ms. Botelho-Cortez has held various roles in the field of social work since 1992, including over twenty-one years of service as a Social Worker for various State departments including the Department of Health Developmental Disabilities Division, Department of Human Services Child Welfare Services Branch (CWS), and Department of Public Safety Hawaii Community Correctional Center. Your Committee further notes that Ms. Botelho-Cortez's experience at the Department of Health and CWS, both in case management positions and as a foster parent, legal guardian, and adoptive parent, and being the legal guardian of a child with mental health issues has provided her with a deep understanding of the needs and challenges Hawaii's keiki and families face on a daily basis. Ms. Botelho-Cortez is currently the Chief Executive Officer for the Island of Hawaii YMCA. Previously, Ms. Botelho-Cortez was an Activities Director for the Hilo Legacy Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. Your Committee finds that Ms. Botelho-Cortez has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of board members and her extensive experience in social work and personal experience as a parent and legal guardian will enhance the effectiveness of the Hawaii Children's Trust Fund Advisory Board. Your Committee therefore recommends that Wendy Botelho-Cortez be appointed to the Hawaii Children's Trust Fund Advisory Board based on her knowledge, background, and dedication to the well-being of Hawaii's youth.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Health and Human Services 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 Health and Human Services,

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JOY A. SAN BUENAVENTURA, Chair