GM 576: Submitting for consideration and confirmation to the Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Hawai'i Service Area Board, Gubernatorial Nominee, JESSICA STEVENS, for a term to expire 06-30-2028.

STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1497

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:    GOV. MSG. NO. 576

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Health and Human Services, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 576, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of: 

Mental Health AND Substance Abuse, Hawai'i Service Area Board

begs leave to report as follows:

     Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Jessica Stevens for service on the Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Hawaiʻi Service Area Board.

     Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Jessica Stevens from the Department of Health.

     Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Stevens' background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Hawaiʻi Service Area Board as a service area provider member.  Your Committee notes that Ms. Stevens has been a nurse since 2005, specializing in providing mental and behavioral health care services for over a decade.  Ms. Stevens is currently the Nurse Manager of the Hilo Benioff Medical Center's Hale Hoʻola Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit, managing and supervising the care provided in the twelve-bed unit.  Previously, Ms. Stevens was a Quality Management Coordinator with the Department of Health, improving the quality of services provided by Hawaii island's Community Mental Health Centers and developing policies that align with the mission of the Adult Mental Health Division.  Your Committee finds that Ms. Stevens has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of board members and her extensive experience as a nurse will enhance the effectiveness of the Board.  Your Committee therefore recommends that Jessica Stevens be appointed to the Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Hawaiʻi Service Area Board 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,