Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2005

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Health, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 208, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee has reviewed the personal history, resume, and statements submitted by the nominee, and finds the nominee to have the necessary qualifications to be appointed to the position of nomination.

Your Committee received testimony in support of ALEX B. WALTER, Ph.D. from the Department of Health, including the Service Area Administrator for Hawaii and Kauai Counties Adult Mental Health Division of the Department of Health, and Mental Health Kokua. Dr. Walter is a licensed psychologist who is employed with the Department of Education at Kealakehe High School in Kailua-Kona. Dr. Walter has over forty years of experience as a psychologist and substance abuse counselor. She has a doctorate in clinical psychology, and a master's degree in both philosophy and clinical and industrial psychology. Dr. Walter is also a licensed chemical dependency counselor, a nationally certified counselor, and a board certified forensic examiner. She serves as a member of the Advisory Council at Kona Hospital.

Your Committee finds that Dr. Walter has served on the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Hawaii Service Area Board since January 2000. Dr. Walter has served as Board Co-Chair for several years and thus is very familiar with the mandates of the board. Her years of experience in the mental health field and her knowledge of mental health issues make her a valuable presence on the board.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Committee on Health 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.