STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3813

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 578

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

Board of Barbering and Cosmetology

G.M. No. 578

MICHAEL BASTA 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 Michael Basta, Jr. for service on the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the reappointment of Michael Basta, Jr. from the Board of Massage Therapy and one individual.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Mr Basta, Jr.'s knowledge and proven experience on the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology qualify him for reappointment to the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology as a licensed beauty operator member. Your Committee notes that Mr. Basta, Jr. has forty-five years of experience as a cosmetologist, including thirty-three years as a salon owner in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and he has been licensed as a beauty operator in Hawaii since 2017. In addition to his cosmetology practice and business expertise, Mr. Basta, Jr. is currently a member of the Cosmetology Program Advisory Committee at Honolulu Community College. Your Committee further notes that Mr. Basta, Jr. has served on the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology since 2022. Your Committee finds that Mr. Basta, Jr.'s cosmetology experience and knowledge will continue to be assets to the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Your Committee therefore recommends that Michael Basta, Jr. be reappointed to the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology based on his industry experience, business and governance knowledge, and ongoing 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