Hawaii Adds New Covid-19 Restrictions on the Islands

Hawaii opened up for vaccinated travelers last month. The state has some of the best beaches in the country, so many people have rushed to visit. However the experience on the island is about to change with some new restrictions on gatherings.

Gov. David Ige signed Executive Order 21-05 setting statewide limits for social gatherings, restaurants, bars, and social establishments earlier this week.

“The Delta variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has changed the course of the pandemic in Hawaiʻi. We are seeing case numbers in the 600s – the highest numbers we’ve seen since this pandemic began,” said Gov. Ige. “This requires immediate and serious attention to avert unmanageable strains on our healthcare system and other catastrophic impacts to the state.”

The following measures will take effect immediately:

• Social gatherings will be limited to no more than 10 people indoors and no more than 25 outdoors.
• Patrons in restaurants bars and social establishments must remain seated with parties maintaining at least 6 ft distancing between groups (with maximum groups size of 10 indoors and 25 outdoors); there will be no mingling, and masks must be worn at all times except when actively eating or drinking.
• The counties will review proposals for all professionally sponsored events for more than 50 people, to ensure that appropriate safe practices will be implemented. Organizers of these professional events must notify and consult with the following county agencies prior to the event. County approval is required for professional events for more than 50 people.