STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3961

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 556

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. 556, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

State Council on Mental Health

G.M. No. 556

MARY PAT WATERHOUSE 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 Mary Pat Waterhouse for service on the State Council on Mental Health.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the reappointment of Mary Pat Waterhouse from the Department of Health; Hina Mauka; Institute for Human Services, Inc.; and one individual.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Waterhouse's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be reappointed to the State Council on Mental Health as a member who is a nonprovider of mental health or other health services representing families of adults with serious mental illnesses who are receiving, or have received, mental health services. Your Committee notes that Ms. Waterhouse has dedicated herself to addressing mental health issues throughout the State since 2009, when she retired from a career in fiscal management. Ms. Waterhouse currently serves as Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Hawaii Disability Rights Center and Mental Health America of Hawaii. Ms. Waterhouse also previously served as a Board Member of the State's Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness Program. Your Committee also notes that Ms. Waterhouse has personal experience with mental health through the struggles of family members with mental illness. Your Committee further notes that Ms. Waterhouse has served on the State Council on Mental Health since 2022 and is currently the Council's Secretary and Chairperson of its ad hoc legislative committee. Your Committee finds that Ms. Waterhouse's experience and knowledge will continue to enhance the effectiveness of the Council. Your Committee therefore recommends that Mary Pat Waterhouse 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