STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3837

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 624

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 624, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

Hawaii Paroling Authority

G.M. No. 624

CHERYL INOUYE 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 Cheryl Inouye for service on the Hawaii Paroling Authority.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Cheryl Inouye from the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Hawaii Paroling Authority, Hawaii Substance Abuse Coalition, and two individuals.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Inouye's experience, background, and commitment to public service qualify her for appointment to the Hawaii Paroling Authority as a member. During the course of Ms. Inouye's career, she has gained broad experience and knowledge about the criminal justice system. Your Committee notes that Ms. Inouye was a senior adviser to the prosecuting attorney of the City and County of Honolulu from 2021 to 2024. Your Committee further notes that Ms. Inouye previously served on the Hawaii Paroling Authority from 2019 to 2020 as an interim board member. Your Committee also notes that Ms. Inouye is an active member in her profession, and has served as a member of the Interagency Council on Intermediate Sanctions, Women's Correctional Implementation Commission, and Domestic Violence Working Group. Your Committee additionally notes that Ms. Inouye has served as an interim member of the Hawaii Paroling Authority since October 2025 and has a thorough understanding of the roles and responsibilities of its members. Your Committee therefore recommends that Cheryl Inouye be appointed to the Hawaii Paroling Authority based on her knowledge, experience, and commitment to public service.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs 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 Public Safety and Military Affairs,

____________________________

CAROL FUKUNAGA, Chair