STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3833

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 729

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Agriculture and Environment, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 729, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

Advisory Committee on Pesticides

G.M. No. 729

STEVE RUSSO 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 Steve Russo for service on the Advisory Committee on Pesticides.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Steve Russo from the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity and two individuals.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Mr. Russo's background and dedication to serving the public qualify him to be appointed to the Advisory Committee on Pesticides. Your Committee notes that Mr. Russo currently works as a Branch Manager at Sandwich Isle Pest Solutions where he leads and manages colleagues across multiple departments to ensure the safe and legal delivery of pest control solutions. Previously, Mr. Russo worked as a Regional Support Manager at Terminix where he developed pest management plans and acted as a liaison with state and local regulatory entities to ensure compliance with regulations. Mr. Russo also worked as an Environmental Health Specialist within the then Department of Agriculture's Pesticides Program. Your Committee also notes that Mr. Russo has served in various roles with the Hawaii Pest Control Association and previously served on the Advisory Committee on Pesticides from 2022 to 2025 where he provided valuable insight based on his experience in both the public and private sectors. Your Committee finds that Mr. Russo's experience and knowledge will continue to enhance the effectiveness of the Advisory Committee on Pesticides. Your Committee therefore recommends that Steve Russo be appointed to the Advisory Committee on Pesticides based on his experience, knowledge, and commitment to public service.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Agriculture and Environment 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 Agriculture and Environment,

____________________________

MIKE GABBARD, Chair