STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3970

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 532

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

Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee

G.M. No. 532

MAX MATIAS, JR. 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 Max Matias, Jr. for service on the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Max Matias, Jr. from the Department of Health and Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Mr. Matias' background and dedication to serving the public qualify him to be appointed to the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee as a member of an allied health profession related to emergency medical services. Your Committee notes that Mr. Matias has over twenty-five years of experience in the fire and emergency services field and currently works as Fire Chief and Commander at the Lihue Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) with the Department of Transportation's Airport Division, where he provides executive leadership, administrative direction, and oversight for ARFF operations and the ARFF Regional Training Center. Previously, Mr. Matias was the Fire Chief and Commander at the Kona ARFF. Your Committee further notes that Mr. Matias is an active member in his profession and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Fire Science Program within the University of Hawaii Community Colleges system and has taught fire science courses at Hawaii Community College since 2019. Your Committee finds that Mr. Matias has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of committee members and his extensive experience in the fire and emergency services field will enhance the effectiveness of the Committee. Your Committee therefore recommends that Max Matias, Jr. be appointed to the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee based on his 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