STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3901

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 569

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

State Rehabilitation Council

G.M. No. 569

CYNTHIA MEW 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 Cynthia Mew for service on the State Rehabilitation Council.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Cynthia Mew from the Department of Human Services.

Your Committee finds that Ms. Mew's experience, knowledge, and long-standing dedication to students with disabilities qualify her to serve on the State Rehabilitation Council as the representative of the state educational agency responsible for the public education of students with disabilities. Your Committee notes that Ms. Mew has served as a State Special Education Resource Teacher with the Department of Education since 2017, where she supports students with disabilities as they plan for post-school outcomes. Previously, Ms. Mew served as an Autism Consultant Resource Teacher, Evaluation Specialist, and State Special Education Literacy Resource Teacher, with the Department of Education, contributing to statewide education data reporting, professional development, and program evaluation. Your Committee further notes that Ms. Mew has been serving as an interim member of the State Rehabilitation Council, contributing to council discussions on collaboration between the Department of Education and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation of the Department of Human Services in service delivery and transition planning. Your Committee finds that Ms. Mew has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of the council's members and her knowledge and expertise will continue to enhance the effectiveness of the council. Your Committee therefore recommends that Cynthia Mew be appointed to the State Rehabilitation Council 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