STAND. COM. REP. NO. 4002

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 568

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

State Rehabilitation Council

G.M. No. 568

EMILY WILKINSON 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 Emily Wilkinson for service on the State Rehabilitation Council.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Emily Wilkinson from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) of the Department of Human Services, Hawaii Disability Rights Center, and one individual.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Wilkinson's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the State Rehabilitation Council as a member who represents the State's client assistance program, which is operated by the Hawaii Disability Rights Center. Your Committee notes that Ms. Wilkinson has been serving as a Disability Rights Advocate for eighteen years at the Hawaii Disability Rights Center, where she assists clients with achieving their employment goals through the Client Assistance Program and has built strong relationships with members of the disabled community through years of providing advocacy services. As a Disability Rights Advocate, Ms. Wilkinson specializes in Social Security Administration work incentives for Social Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance recipients, demonstrating her detailed knowledge of federal regulations, benefits planning, and the barriers individuals face when pursing employment. As a life-long resident of the State with a disability, and a former client of the DVR, Ms. Wilkinson has first hand experience with the challenges Hawaii residents face when navigating employment, accessibility, and independence. Your Committee finds that Ms. Wilkinson has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of council members and her extensive experience with the client assistance program and serving disabled communities will enhance the effectiveness of the Council. Your Committee therefore recommends that Emily Wilkinson be appointed to the State Rehabilitation Council 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