STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3834

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 771

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

Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity

G.M. No. 771

JAMES GOMES 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 James Gomes for service on the Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the reappointment of James Gomes from the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity; Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau; Hawaii Cattlemen's Council, Inc.; Maui County Farm Bureau; Kualoa Ranch; Caires Farms; and fourteen individuals.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Mr. Gomes's experience, background, and commitment to public service qualify him for reappointment to the Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity as an at-large member. Your Committee notes that Mr. Gomes has over two decades of experience in agriculture and is currently a consultant to Ulupalakua Ranch after retiring as their Operations Ranch Manager in 2021 following eighteen years of service. Mr. Gomes has previously served as President and Vice President of the Hawaii Cattlemen's Council, and is currently a member of the Maui Cattlemen's Association. Mr. Gomes has also volunteered with the Maui Liquor Commission and as a member of the Board of Land and Natural Resources representing Maui Island. Your Committee further notes that since his initial appointment to the Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity in 2022, Mr. Gomes has provided valuable insight and a perspective that reflects his practical understanding of balancing agricultural production with conservation and resource stewardship and ensures that the voice of working farmers and ranchers remains represented in statewide decision-making. Your Committee therefore recommends that James Gomes be reappointed to the Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity based on his knowledge, experience, 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