STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3859

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 585

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

Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology

G.M. No. 585

KRISTIN BABA 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 Kristin Baba for service on the Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Kristin Baba from the Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology, Hawaii Audiology Consultants Inc., and seven individuals.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Dr. Baba's experience, background, and commitment to public service qualify her for appointment to the Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology as an audiologist member. Your Committee notes that Dr. Baba holds a Doctor of Audiology and has nearly ten years of experience in clinical audiology, predominantly serving military service members, veterans, and their families as a Staff Audiologist at the Department of Veterans Affairs and Tripler Army Medical Center. Dr. Baba is also a Hearing Conservation Audiologist at Hawaii Audiology Consultants, where she supports individuals exposed to hazardous noise levels through their employment to preserve their hearing for long-term quality of life and well-being. Your Committee notes that Dr. Baba has been serving as an interim member of the Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology and has a thorough understanding of the roles and responsibilities of its members. Your Committee finds that Dr. Baba's experience and clinical knowledge of audiology will continue to be assets to the Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology. Your Committee therefore recommends that Kristin Baba be appointed to the Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology based on her knowledge, experience, 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,

____________________________

JARRETT KEOHOKALOLE, Chair