New international travel, local COVID-19 rule changes
Posted on Nov 29, 2021 in Capitol Connection, Featured, Main
The new mauka concourse at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.
Effective Nov. 8, international travelers are subject to new federal requirements, with air carriers responsible for screening passengers prior to departure. “International travelers are required to be fully vaccinated and provide proof of a negative COVID-19 viral test administered within 72 hours of departure,” said Governor Ige. However, additional travel restrictions have been announced related to the new Omicron variant. For the latest rules, see the Centers for Disease Control site at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel/index.html.
As for Hawai‘i-specific rules, the governor’s most recent emergency proclamation relating to COVID-19, effective Dec. 1, includes the following:
– Unchanged measures –The Hawai‘i Safe Travels program and the indoor mask mandate continue statewide. Also the vaccination or testing requirements for state executive branch and county employees, contractors and visitors to state facilities remain.
– Major changes – 1) Counties will no longer need to obtain the governor’s approval prior to issuing county emergency orders; 2) the statewide limits on social gatherings, restaurants, bars and gyms are no longer in effect, so counties can determine the limits and appropriate measures needed for health and safety; 3) there are no further extensions for driver’s license renewals, instruction permits and replacements, so residents need to make sure their licenses are up to date.