STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3815

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 593

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 593, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

State Board of Naturopathic Medicine

G.M. No. 593

BRITTA ZIMMER for a term to expire 06-30-2029,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Britta Zimmer for service on the State Board of Naturopathic Medicine.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Britta Zimmer from the Board of Naturopathic Medicine, Pacific Quest Corp., Hawaii Society of Naturopathic Physicians, Klein Natural Health and Wellness Center, and four individuals.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Dr. Zimmer's leadership experience, background in naturopathic medicine, and commitment to public service qualify her for appointment to the State Board of Naturopathic Medicine as a licensee member. Dr. Zimmer has been a licensed naturopathic physician in Hawaii since 2007 and has over two decades of experience as a leader, business owner, and physician. Your Committee notes that Dr. Zimmer has worked as a Medical Director at Pacific Quest in Hilo since 2011 where she designs and develops integrative medical and psychiatry programs and supervises medical practitioners. Previously, Dr. Zimmer served as a Program Physician with Pacific Quest, delivering direct patient care. Dr. Zimmer is also an active member of the Hawaii Society of Naturopathic Physicians and currently serves on the board of the Hawaii Island Community Health Center. Your Committee further notes that Dr. Zimmer has served as an interim member of the State Board of Naturopathic Medicine since 2025 and has a thorough understanding of the roles and responsibilities of its members. Your Committee therefore recommends that Britta Zimmer be appointed to the State Board of Naturopathic Medicine based on her experience, knowledge and commitment to public service.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection 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 Commerce and Consumer Protection,

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JARRETT KEOHOKALOLE, Chair