GM 623: Submitting for consideration and confirmation to the Correctional Industries Advisory Committee, Gubernatorial Nominee, CARLA KOBASHIGAWA, for a term to expire 06-30-2028.

STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1974

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:    GOV. MSG. NO. 623

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 623, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of: 

Correctional Industries Advisory Committee

begs leave to report as follows:

     Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Carla Kobashigawa for service on the Correctional Industries Advisory Committee.

     Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Carla Kobashigawa from the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Queen Emma Hawaiian Civic Club, and five individuals.

     Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Kobashigawa's experience, knowledge, and proven leadership qualify her for appointment to the Correctional Industries Advisory Committee as a member representing private sector businesses.  Ms. Kobashigawa currently serves as a School Official at Applied Computer Training and Technology, Inc., where she has worked since 2017.  In this position, she oversees the compliance of academic plans and industry certifications.  She holds a Master's degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Chaminade University and a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Philosophy from Washington State University, demonstrating an understanding of the justice system which is key for contributing to discussions and decision-making for the Hawaii Correctional Industries vocational rehabilitation program.  Ms. Kobashigawa's role in ensuring adherence to educational standards and certifications equips her with the expertise needed to support vocational training initiatives aimed at rehabilitation and workforce readiness for incarcerated individuals.  She has a thorough understanding of the roles and responsibilities of committee members and her training, commitment, and knowledge in workforce development will be assets to the Advisory Committee.  Your Committee therefore recommends that Carla Kobashigawa be appointed to the Correctional Industries Advisory Committee based on her background in compliance, collaborative approach, and passionate advocacy for Native Hawaiian communities which are disproportionately affected by the criminal justice system.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs 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 Public Safety and Military Affairs,