Governor lifts outdoor mask requirement, gives green light to ocean sports competitions
Posted on May 27, 2021 in Capitol Connection, Featured, Main
Governor Ige has issued an amendment to the 19th emergency proclamation, lifting the mask mandate for all individuals outdoors, effective immediately. Mask wearing is still highly recommended outdoors, when in large groups. The indoor mask mandate remains unchanged. “The virus is still circulating in our community, and unvaccinated people are particularly at risk,” he said. “Until more people are vaccinated, we must continue to take precautions indoors and outdoors in large groups for the safety of our loved ones, neighbors and communities.”
He also announced that the state will lift the suspension of ocean sports competitions beginning June 1. This includes surfing, canoeing and swimming events, among others. The state will resume issuing permits for ocean activities, and the counties will issue permits for the use of parks. Permits will be issued with the understanding that health and safety protocols are followed to protect communities, contestants, and spectators.
“The public health measures that we implemented for the State of Hawai‘i, along with the success of our vaccine program and the cooperation of our residents across the state, have brought us to this point,” said the governor. “We made these decisions based on the data and guidance from our public health officials.” The county mayors also thanked the people of Hawai‘i for their willingness to be vaccinated and following the state’s health guidelines.
In addition, Governor Ige approved the City and County of Honolulu’s request to lift canopy restrictions and allow tournaments in city parks, effective June 1. He also approved the County of Kaua‘i’s updated Business & Recreation Guidelines tier chart. The new chart adds a Tier 5 and a Tier 6, which will further loosen restrictions on Kaua‘i when Hawai‘i reaches COVID-19 vaccination milestones.