STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3911

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 778

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Judiciary, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 778, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

Commission on the Status of Women

G.M. No. 778

JESSICA SHAFFER 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 Jessica Shaffer for service on the Commission on the Status of Women.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Jessica Shaffer from the Hawaii State Commission on the Status of Women and ten individuals.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Shaffer's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the Commission on the Status of Women as a member representing Oahu. Your Committee notes that Ms. Shaffer has been licensed as a lawyer in Massachusetts since 2016 and currently works as an Investigator and Compliance Officer for the Office of Compliance regarding equal employment opportunities and Title IX with the Office of the Vice President of Community Colleges within the University of Hawaiʻi System. Previously, Ms. Shaffer was a Fellow at the Office for Dispute Resolution of Harvard University where she investigated complaints of sexual harassment and sexual misconduct against university students, staff, and faculty, including case evaluation and investigative planning. Your Committee further notes that Ms. Shaffer is an active member in her community and serves with the University of Hawaiʻi Commission on the Status of Women as Co‑Chair where she works to promote gender equity at the University of Hawaiʻi. Your Committee finds that Ms. Shaffer has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of commissioners and her extensive experience in gender equality and law will enhance the effectiveness of the Commission on the Status of Women. Your Committee therefore recommends that Jessica Shaffer be appointed to the Commission on the Status of Women based on her knowledge, background, and dedication to public service.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Judiciary 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 Judiciary,

____________________________

KARL RHOADS, Chair