Laura H. Thielen was confirmed as director of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. She replaces Peter Young, who lost a confirmation battle last session. Several senators said they would continue to monitor ongoing management problems at the department's Bureau of Conveyances and staff turnover in the state historic preservation division.

Clayton Frank was confirmed as the director of the state Department of Public Safety, replacing Iwalani White, who was not confirmed last session after eight months as interim director. Senators said they hope Frank, a department veteran, will bring stability to the job and will continue to address issues such as proper treatment for mentally ill prisoners and bringing female prisoners staying in Mainland facilities back to the Islands.