STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3994

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 753

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

Language Access Advisory Council

G.M. No. 753

VALERIE ROSE 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 Valerie Rose for service on the Language Access Advisory Council.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Valerie Rose from the Hawaii Family Caregiver Coalition and one individual.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Rose's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the Language Access Advisory Council as a member who resides in the City and County of Honolulu who has shown interest in language access. Your Committee notes that Ms. Rose has been serving as a Coordinator at the Office of Primary Care and Rural Health of the Department of Health, which coordinates federal, state, and local efforts aimed at improving the health of the State's rural and medically underserved populations since 2025. As Coordinator, she works with diverse communities and state agencies to assess health care service gaps and advocate for equitable access, particularly in areas where limited English proficiency often intersects with other access barriers. Previously, Ms. Rose was a Bilingual Health Aide Coordinator from 2020 to 2025 for the Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Division of the Department of Health, where she oversaw programs designed to reduce barriers for non-English language preference populations, including Bilingual Health Aide Services and the Easy Access Program. Your Committee further notes that Ms. Rose is an active member in her community and has served with Hep Free Hawaii, Kalihi Connection Coalition, and Hawaii Coalition for Immigrant Rights. Your Committee finds that Ms. Rose has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of council members and her extensive experience in language access, health equity, and public health program coordination will enhance the effectiveness of the Council. Your Committee therefore recommends that Valerie Rose be appointed to the Language Access Advisory Council 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