STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1507

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 636

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Health and Human Services, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 636, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

Health Planning Council, West Oahu Subarea

G.M. No. 636

BARBARA YAMASHITA, for a term to expire 06-30-2028,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Barbara Yamashita for service on the Health Planning Council, West Oahu Subarea.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Barbara Yamashita from the State Health Planning and Development Agency.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Yamashita's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the Health Planning Council, West Oahu Subarea. Your Committee notes that Ms. Yamashita has extensive experience working in public health and human services, including hospital administration. She is currently retired and most recently served as faculty for the University of Phoenix, giving lectures to undergraduate and graduate students on topics such as pharmacology, mental health nursing, and community health care practices. Ms. Yamashita also has extensive planning and administrative experience, including her service as the Deputy Director for the City and County of Honolulu from 2014 to 2016, as Deputy Director of Human Services from 2012 to 2014, and as an administrator for the Department of Health from 1992 to 2012. During the course of Ms. Yamashita's career, she has gained broad experience and knowledge on strategic planning, identifying growth opportunities, and collaborating with stakeholders to foster partnerships to drive continuous improvements across various programs. Your Committee finds that Ms. Yamashita has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of board members and her extensive experience will enhance the effectiveness of the Health Planning Council, West Oahu Subarea. Your Committee therefore recommends that Barbara Yamashita be appointed to the Health Planning Council, West Oahu Subarea based on her knowledge, background, and dedication to public service.

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