STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3998

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 552

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Health and Human Services, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 552, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

State Council on Developmental Disabilities

G.M. No. 552

PINA LEMUSU for a term to expire 06-30-2026,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Pina Lemusu for service on the State Council on Developmental Disabilities.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Pina Lemusu from the Division of Vocation Rehabilitation of the Department Human Services, State Council on Developmental Disabilities, and one individual.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Lemusu's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the State Council on Developmental Disabilities as a member who is a representative of a state entity that administers funds provided under federal law relating to individuals with disabilities, particularly the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Your Committee notes that Ms. Lemusu has been serving with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) of the Department of Human Services for nearly two decades, where she has been dedicated to removing barriers and increasing opportunities for individuals with disabilities so that they can live, work, and thrive in the community, with a focus on helping them find and succeed in jobs that fit their individual interests, priorities, abilities, capabilities, and informed choice. At DVR, Ms. Lemusu has been serving as the Oahu Branch Administrator since 2024, managing the budget, generating various reports, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the largest branch in DVR, which has given her knowledge of regulations governing individuals with disabilities and employment, including the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Previously at DVR, Ms. Lemusu was a Supervisor and Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist. Your Committee finds that Ms. Lemusu has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of council members and her extensive experience in vocational rehabilitation and employment services for individuals with disabilities will enhance the effectiveness of the Council. Your Committee therefore recommends that Pina Lemusu be appointed to the State Council on Developmental Disabilities 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