STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3960

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 555

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Health and Human Services, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 555, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

State Council on Mental Health

G.M. No. 555

MARGARET JACKSON for a term to expire 06-30-2028,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Margaret Jackson for service on the State Council on Mental Health.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the reappointment of Margaret Jackson from the Department of Health.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Jackson's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be reappointed to the State Council on Mental Health as a member representing the Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Oahu Service Area Board and families of adults with serious mental illness who are receiving, or have received, mental health services. Your Committee notes that Ms. Jackson has been a Parent Support Provider for Hawaii Families As Allies since 2014, where she helps to expand knowledge of various community resources and maintains community partner relationships. Your Committee also notes that Ms. Jackson has many family members who have and continue to struggle with diagnosed and undiagnosed mental health challenges. Your Committee also finds that Ms. Jackson is an active member in her community, having volunteered at her local church for over twenty-five years and with a homeless outreach program in downtown Honolulu on a weekly basis. Your Committee further notes that Ms. Jackson previously served on the State Council on Mental Health from 2022 to 2024 and the Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Oahu Service Area Board from 2019 to 2026. Your Committee finds that Ms. Jackson's experience and knowledge will continue to enhance the effectiveness of the Council. Your Committee therefore recommends that Margaret Jackson be reappointed to the State Council on Mental Health based on her experience, knowledge, and commitment to public service.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Health and Human Services 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 Health and Human Services,

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JOY A. SAN BUENAVENTURA, Chair