STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3893

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 548

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. 548, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

Health Planning Council, Hawaiʻi County Subarea

G.M. No. 548

HANNAH PRESTON-PITA, 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 Hannah Preston-Pita for service on the Health Planning Council, Hawaii County Subarea.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Hannah Preston-Pita from the State Health Planning and Development Agency; Office of the Mayor of the County of Hawaiʻi; Health Planning Council, Hawaiʻi County Subarea; one member of the Hawaiʻi County Council; Ka Hale Pomaikaʻi; HinaMauka; and one individual.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Dr. Preston-Pita's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the Health Planning Council, Hawaii County Subarea. Dr. Preston-Pita received a doctorate and master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University and a doctorate in Education from Concordia University. Dr. Preston‑Pita became a licensed clinical psychologist in 2008, and provided integrated behavioral health services and program development in rural areas of Oahu, including at Waimanalo Community Health Center and Kahuku Hospital. In 2011, Dr. Preston-Pita became a licensed clinical psychologist at the Big Island Substance Abuse Council, and was promoted to her current position of Chief Executive Officer in 2012. Your Committee finds that Dr. Preston-Pita has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of board members and her extensive knowledge in clinical psychology and expertise in providing health care and support services in rural settings will continue to enhance the effectiveness of the Hawaii County Subarea Health Planning Council. Your Committee therefore recommends that Dr. Hannah Preston-Pita be appointed to the Health Planning Council, Hawaii County 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