STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3900

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 531

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

Disability and Communication Access Board

G.M. No. 531

CHARLOTTE TOWNSEND 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 Charlotte Townsend for service on the Disability and Communication Access Board.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the reappointment of Charlotte Townsend from the Disability and Communication Access Board.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Townsend's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the Disability and Communication Access Board (DCAB) as a member with a mobility disability. Your Committee notes that Ms. Townsend has over four decades of experience serving disabled communities in the State and most recently served as the Vice President of Paratransit Services for Oahu Transit Services, Inc., where she was responsible for the administration and management of the Paratransit Services Department, including oversight of TheHandi-Van program. Previously, Ms. Townsend spent over two decades in various periods serving DCAB as a Program and Policy Development Supervisor, Assistant Director, and Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator. As an Assistant Director, Ms. Townsend supervised staff responsible for the review and analysis of state, county, and federal laws, regulations, policies, and programs relating to persons with disabilities. Your Committee further notes that Ms. Townsend has served on DCAB since 2022 and currently serves as the Board's Chairperson. Your Committee finds that Ms. Townsend's experience and knowledge serving disabled communities in the State and DCAB will continue to enhance the effectiveness of the Board. Your Committee therefore recommends that Charlotte Townsend be reappointed to the Disability and Communication Access Board based on her experience, knowledge, and commitment 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,

____________________________

JOY A. SAN BUENAVENTURA, Chair