STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3962

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 712

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

State Council on Mental Health

G.M. No. 712

KATHLEEN MERRIAM 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 Kathleen Merriam for service on the State Council on Mental Health.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the reappointment of Kathleen Merriam from the Department of Health, Hawaii Substance Abuse Coalition, and one individual.

Your Committee finds that Ms. Merriam's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be reappointed to the State Council on Mental Health as a member representing a principal state agency with respect to mental health. Your Committee notes that Ms. Merriam has been a mental health professional for more than three decades, with extensive experience in program development, clinical operations, and service coordination, serving for over two decades in the Adult Mental Health Division (AMHD) of the Department of Health. Ms. Merriam is currently a Mental Health Supervisor with the Windward Oahu Treatment Services Section of the AMHD, where she oversees clinical operations, supervises staff, and leads performance management and quality improvement initiatives. Previously, Ms. Merriam served as a Service Coordinator and Statewide Psychosocial Rehabilitation Coordinator for the AMHD. Your Committee further notes that Ms. Merriam has served as a member of the State Council on Mental Health since 2022 and has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of council members. Your Committee finds that Ms. Merriam's extensive experience in managing statewide initiatives and community-based mental health services will continue to enhance the effectiveness of the Council. Your Committee therefore recommends that Kathleen Merriam be reappointed 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,

____________________________

JOY A. SAN BUENAVENTURA, Chair