STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3955

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 702

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

Health Planning Council, West Oahu Subarea

G.M. No. 702

MICHELE KUAHINE for a term to expire 06-30-2030,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Michele Kuahine for service on the Health Planning Council, West Oahu Subarea.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Michele Kuahine from the State Health Planning and Development Agency, Waianae Moku Navigators, Molokai Community Health Center, SunGlobal Super Wireless, Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, and one individual.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Kuahine's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the Health Planning Council, West Oahu Subarea. Your Committee notes that Ms. Kuahine has more than thirty-five years of health care and community development experience, gained through multiple roles of increasing responsibility at the Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center (WCCHC). She is currently the Development Director for WCCHC's Ka Ike Ola Teaching and Learning Programs, where she leads digital health, telehealth, and community workforce initiatives that expand access to care for rural populations. Ms. Kuahine also manages WCCHC's partnerships with Native Hawaiian-serving health centers, higher education institutions, state agencies, and community organizations. Previously, Ms. Kuahine was the Director of Clinical and Patient Informatics at WCCHC, where she expanded telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Your Committee finds that Ms. Kuahine has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of council members and her extensive experience in rural health planning will enhance the effectiveness of the Council. Your Committee therefore recommends that Michele Kuahine be appointed to the Health Planning Council, West Oahu Subarea based on her 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