STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3964

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 711

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

State Council on Mental Health

G.M. No. 711

MARISSA CELESTE for a term to expire 06-30-2030,

begs leave to report as follows:

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

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Marissa Celeste from one individual.

Your Committee finds that Ms. Celeste's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the State Council on Mental Health as a provider member. Your Committee notes that Ms. Celeste has been engaged in peer-based mental health support since 2000, when she began her work as a Certified Peer Counselor and Life Coach at San Fernando Valley Community Mental Health Center, Inc., providing support in mental health education, intake processing, and consumer assessment. Ms. Celeste is currently a Hawaii State Certified Peer Specialist, having been grandfathered into certification in 2023. Previously, Ms. Celeste volunteered as a Recovery Facilitator with Project Return Peer Support Network, where she led recovery-oriented groups and supported service recipients in developing coping, communication, and problem-solving skills. Your Committee finds that Ms. Celeste has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of council members and her extensive experience in peer-support mental health services will enhance the effectiveness of the State Council on Mental Health. Your Committee therefore recommends that Marissa Celeste be appointed to the State Council on Mental Health based on her knowledge, background, and dedication 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