Rules Committee advances I-Bank nominee Andy Nakahata and clears several governor appointments

Andy Nakahata, nominated to be executive director of the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (I-Bank), addressed the Senate Rules Committee and urged the panel to consider his 30 years of experience in infrastructure finance.

"My name is Andy Nakahata, and I'm honored to be considered for the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank's next executive director," Nakahata said in his opening remarks, noting work in the private sector and a recent year of service within I-Bank.

Why it matters: The committee's decision to advance Nakahata sends the nomination to the full Senate for confirmation and preserves the Legislature’s ability to shape who leads a state entity that helps finance local infrastructure and small-business projects statewide.

In questioning, Senator John Laird pressed Nakahata on how I-Bank ensures geographic equity and outreach to counties that have not used I-Bank programs. Nakahata said the bank relies on financial development corporations and participating lenders to extend its reach,…