Updating HB1286 with Hawaii legislature to the forefront. If passed, all islands would follow a single COVID travel policy.
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248 thoughts on “Breaking: Plan to Eliminate Island-by-Island Travel Rules Gets Heard”
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Is this not one of the same problems that has occurred at a national level, letting states manage their own responses in relation to the pandemic? And is it not the biggest disorder ever? I seriously doubt the death rate would be nearly as high had the situation been controlled at the top from the beginning! And we are doing the same with the State of Hawaii? I happen to live on the Big Island but if I were planning a visit, I would certainly think twice before entering this miasma of confusion! I love Hawaii and am so grateful that I can just go out on my lanai, watch the ocean, breathe the wonderful scents in the air (by myself), and not worry about traveling until all is good again!
Allowing readers to officially submit comments is great and tells me one thing is for sure: it will be many months before any of this is truly finalized. What about other issues such as adding a day to the pre-travel testing? Or, allowing Quarantine lift as soon as results come in (if not in by departure time). I have a trip planned in late May and I’m guessing there won’t be any changes made by then.
Thanks for the updates, BOH!
Separate rules make sense.
One rule for the whole State.
I Love Hawaii and I can’t wait to go visit. We have a scheduled trip for April and I am so looking forward to it. The problem being that from Island to Island we don’t know what is required each is different. I keep watching the Beat of Hawaii and things keep changing, you need to get it so all is the same, taking first time visitors and I keep worrying that things are going to change again. Still waiting to see about what you say in regards to the vaccine, most of us will have had ours. Wanting to know what you have to say. Have paid everything for trip hoping I don’t have to cancel. As well as the mainland everyone has to come to one rule, Hawaii is different and a lot could happen so I hope all of you can come to an agreement.
With the islands having varying Covid-19 restrictions, and to clarify what this act proposes, is it correct to say that a trans-pacific traveler from the mainland needs:
1) A negative test within 72 hrs. of the last leg departure of their flight from the “Trusted Partner” and “Trusted Lab” list of the Safe Travels list.
1a) This would eliminate Kauai’s less restrictive testing requirements requiring only Emergency Use Authorization.
2) If a traveler has a negative test and the result is obtained in time, uploaded to the Safe Travels site and has a copy in hand, that traveler will not have to do any quarantine on any island.
3) That traveler will immediately be able to rent a vehicle upon arrival, grocery shop and go directly to their living quarters.
4) If the traveler has not obtained the negative results upon arrival they will have to quarantine until the test is received.
5) This legislation will eliminate the Kauai “Bubble Resorts”.
6) This will eliminate the Kauai restriction of no vehicle rental for the minimum of a 3 day quarantine.
Thanks for listening.
Hi Jim.
We can’t say yet what rules would be in effect should this bill pass. Wether some rules could go from being island rules to state rules is still to be determined.
Aloha.
First can all Mainlanders ( and I am one) please stop comparing Hawaii to the mainland. Yes one country, yes 50th state, but that’s where the “comparison” ends. Everyone should recognize that. Next, nothing has changed since March. These decisions will always be the impossible choice of “Dollars vs Deaths”. (And I’m not being dramatic. As I’ve said before my wife is a nurse. I know what “ squirrel eyes” look like.) And in reply to one reader, yes in some states (PA) the rules in some counties and cities were different from others. I think the citizens of Hawaii should decide this. Not “ the tourists”. Aloha
Agreed!
signed, a fellow full time Kauai resident, not someone looking for a short term vacation solution
Just a follow up thought. If they have laws to arrest and put those who broke the rules butts on the next outbound flight could they not input a rule that if anyone is not wearing a mask or social distancing that they are arrested and shipped home and allow those of us that respect their laws and know how to protect ourselves and others to visit?
Hi. I tried to leave testimony but it said they were not taking any outside testimony for this bill. I really hope this passes and quickly.
For me I would prefer each island to make its own determination for Covid safety parameters. If I can fly direct to Kona, not pass through another island with no wish to visit another island, why should I be denied a vacation on the Big Island if they can safely allow visitors? Same with Maui. Otherwise, if direct flights are not available, would travel through Oahu be allowed if that island is shut down? There are still many questions about how this could occur.
I am glad they have decided to do this and are taking testimonies from all types. I know many residents feel each island has its differences, but they are still 1 state and should have the same rules for this pandemic. Its not just visitors that this mess has been effecting. Hope this will cause the clear up needed for all.
One decision for all islands please
Having one set of rules for the entire state would be welcome. Last April, we canceled our Kauai vacation and lost money. We re-booked this year for another April visit, but the constantly changing regulations recently cost us an additional $2200 on top of an already expensive vacation; there are the costs of three nights in an expensive bubble, three extra days of dining costs, additional testing and monitor costs ($300 ea), higher air fares, etc. Even though airlines have a “No Change Fee” policy due to Covid19, one still gets to pay the current posted fare, not the bargain fare we spent hours trying to find months ago. Seriously considering canceling our bi-annual Hawaii trips forever. I understand the concern of spreading the virus and the limited number of ICU beds, etc, and I am not opposed to wearing a mask when near other people. But, I think testing 3 days prior to landing in Hawaii, and possibly even being vaccinated by April, should be an adequate precaution.
Good luck with your state legislature. Thank you.
We leave for Kaua’i on March 1st. We were lucky I guess, because our timeshare is at the Point at Po’ipu and that became a Bubble Resort effective today, so we will just do our three day quarantine there. It is all good.
The big thing for us is the preferred providers. What made it all work for us is that Kaua’i now accepts any FDA approved COVID Test molecular or antigen. The State needs to do something similar; you can’t demand that visitors have a test only from a Preferred Provider within 72 hours of the mainland departure, when the preferred providers can’t guarantee a response within 72 hours.
I firmly believe there should be the same rules for the entire state of Hawaii..I had travel plans for May to go to Kauai but have pushed them back to October because of the quarantine policy on the island..i can’t afford a resort bubble, retesting, and the ankle monitor along with the cost for my rental home…it is very depressing and I’m also hoping that businesses will be open by October.
Thank you..
I think a standard set of rules that apply to all islands would streamline things for potential tourists and make it easier for them to understand, instead of putting off trips to HI because of different rules for different islands. Although I know it’s probably coming that vaccinated tourists wont have to test before arriving I am not 100% confident in that choice; due to the fact there still no definitive information on how long the vaccine makes you immune for, that several people now have been reported as having had both shots but they still were able to test positive for Covid 19. Not to mention individuals who wont be in a category to be allowed vaccination until well down the line feeling slighted or worse as always thank you for the updates.
aloha!
re:”due to the fact there still no definitive information on how long the vaccine makes you immune for”
none of the vaccines make you immune from getting and transmitting covid, nor do they claim this. They only prevent the majority of people from getting severely ill. while they will reduce hospitalizations and deaths, it is uncler what effect, if any, they will have on transmission and spread. Quite possible that vaccinated peopel will get a false sense of confidence that leads to behavior that exposes others at a higher level
I would like to visit the Hawaii islands in May. I am hopeful that some of the restrictions will be lifted but think it needs to be in accordance with the people’s wishes. I don’t want to be there if the people of Hawaii see me as a threat.
About Time!
Aloha-
If this bill passes how soon would it be law? And what island’s current rules would apply?
Thanks
Hi Jon.
We don’t have answers to your questions at this time. More to come.
Aloha.
As long as the rules aren’t stupid …OK
Aloha, FYI, when I tried to submit testimony the webpage replied “ There are no upcoming hearings for this bill in which public testimony will be accepted.” As always, Mahalo for all the good info!
Hi Kim.
You’re correct, from what we were told, testimony can’t be received until committee dates are scheduled. We’ll update when that happens.
Aloha.
I left a comment before on One State One Rule, which is my first choice. My second choice would be each island could have an instant test on arrival to island if they chose to. I just heard that the Federal government is promoting a 15 minute response test that is 95% effective for $30.00. Hawaii should have their orders for those tests, for travel and schools, minimum. You would now have a test that Hawaiians could use that is not so cost prohibitive for inter island travel.
I’m curious how this will all change for those who have gotten the vaccine. One shot? then 2.
Hawaii family, see you in a few days with a negative COVID test and one shot of the vaccine already.
This is the worst bill which is completely Oahu-centric and based only on welfare of travel industry!
Each island had its own unique situation regarding health care facilities and staff: this Bill completely ignores these differences and the welfare of the residents!
What about the concept of ‘home rule’ – which recognizes these island to island differences! There is no other state with counties separated not only by 100’s of miles of ocean, but no alternative means of travel except by air.
Please give some consideration to the health and well being of residents before you accept whatever bad idea the visitor industry puts forth….!
Totally agree with uniformity and consistency for All the islands…too confusing as it stands now and hopefully, one set of rules and guidelines will increase visitor travel to this beautiful place!!!
Should be one rule. What if each country city and town had there own rules here in the mainland?
The do….look at California
They do!!!
As a resident of Kauai, I think it’s high time All Islands operate under the same rules regarding travel. I recently returned home from the mainland where I was taking care of family member that had a surgical procedure. Even though I took and received a Covid (negative) test before returning home I had to quarantine for 10 days because I couldn’t afford to quarantine in a resort bubble! I quarantined at my home (I have 3 days left of my quarantine) this is nothing short of extortion from residents! When I asked at the airport about taking a second test to get out of quarantine early, I was told no, it was not an option for residents. When I questioned this practice (respectfully) 2 police officers were immediately at my side. This is insane being treated like a criminal.
I am so glad, that the state legislatures have taken over this circus. I’m sure they will put Guidelines into affect to Protect all of the islands. Long-overdue.
After registering with capitol.hawaii.gov and clicking on hb 1286 – the site said there are no hearings for which public testimony is being received.
Recommend checking back often. This is an awesome opportunity to let our voices be heard and bring some sanity back to Hawaii!
Same Experience. Cannot provide Public Testimony yet. “There are no upcoming hearings for this bill in which public testimony will be accepted.”
Have a vaccine should permit travel without testing. Unnecessary expense and problems
The vaccine takes time to adequately protect. Just today two Congresspersons tested positive after receiving the vaccine. That was PCR type, not antibody test. Still need to wear mask until the virus has been tamped down sufficiently to prevent spread for the same reason. So the answer to your statement is “no”.
Thank you. I just don’t remember voting for a James on any ballot to say “no” to someone’s suggestion.
Both only received ONE of the TWO vaccines…. Only giving them 50% coverage and then weren’t wearing a mask… Can’t fix ignorance, I guess?
Once you receive Both Vaccines, you are 95% immune to COVID 19 and most variants. The Vaccines are dated when inoculated, so you would have to prove you received both vaccines, plus the 12 days for proof of Immunity would have to be documented.
… and yes, 95% is more than enough. Someone would have more of chance contracting the Hepatitis or TB on a plan, than COVID with 95% coverage.
Respectfully Mike. The vaccine does not make you “immune”. It provides protection from severe illness. You can still contract and pass on the virus to the UN-vaccinated. Masking and social distancing will be around for quite some time if the anti-vax mob has their way.
Not so fast. The vaccine protects you. They don’t know if a vaccinated person can still carry & infect an unvaccinated person. Jury is still out. Sorry
This person would still bring COVID to Hawaii and they had the “vaccine”.
cbsnews.com/news/stephen-lynch-covid-19-positive-vaccine/
This is long overdue ! The current governor is either unwilling or unable to take clear and decisive steps to protect both residents and visitors in an economically sustainable way. As someone who has owned property on Kauai for over 40 years and loves the island and its people, the current situation is worse than being in limbo . We have friends who are full-time residents on all the islands, and though some are being more impacted than others, there is no support for multiple policies for multiple counties.
We have been coming to Kauai since 1998.We are not coming this year because of the Mayor’s over the top restrictions to visitors!!!I just hope that the people who are trying to survive the total shutdown don’t lose everything they have!!!
Glad to hear it! Kauai’s mayor has his priorities on the people and not the self-centered tourists that could care less of our health and safety.
As a tourist who has tried to book a trip there twice, and had to cancel due to the confusion over whether we would be quarantined for our entire stay, I would appreciate all islands being under the same regulations. Although, I do understand the concerns from some of the islands, such as being short on medical personnel and/or supplies. Hopefully, the governor and state legislature will equip those islands with the necessary staff and supplies for compliance.
Thanks!
Hi Gina.
Thanks for your input.
Aloha.
I hope to visit after I get vaccinated. I am willing to do pre and post flight testing but I won’t visit while you have quarantine.
It’s about time! Bring the entire state into 2021 and get tourism flourishing.
So, the simplest answer to the problem that should not even be one is actually based on a couple of simple questions. How many state legislatures are there in Hawaii? How many governors are there in Hawaii? Of course the answer to both questions is “1”! Anyone that has been to the Hawaiian Islands knows that every island is different from each other but when you start giving the mayors of those islands the power to dictate travel and quarantine “rules” as they have, you have in essence created little mini states within the state of Hawaii. And it is NOT the governor that should have exclusive authority over what’s going on with travel to and withing Hawaii. Many other states have gone this way with gubernatorial dictates and it has been nothing but disasters all across the country. Hawaii is one of the 50 states within the USA so start acting like you actually have your act together!
By your post, I assume that you assume that the Governors in the other 49 states “have their act together”. Perhaps that’s why the U.S. leads the planet in infections, deaths, hospitalizations, etc.
When you try to submit testimony this message is displayed: “There are no upcoming hearings for this bill in which public testimony will be accepted.”
In the upper right corner click REGISTER. After you create your login you should be able to submit testimony.
That message comes up after you register.
If tourism is wanted, a uniform set of rules should be the norm.
Yes, one set of rules is needed for all the islands. The multiple choices are too confusing and discouraging for people who have a desire to travel. The most recent requirement for AlohaSafe Alert is only for travelers to Maui. I don’t know how people can even learn about that recent addition to what is necessary.
I think it is obvious throughout this process that one person , the Governor, has had too much power.
Unless Hawaii wants to be considered a tribal State they should make it one uniform policy.
The way it stands now, Hawaii is a couple of tribal islands, each trying to brag about how one is doing better than the other.
“Locals” turned on each other, referring to other islands ” Ohana”, as dirty Covid spreaders.
Sad, but shows how quickly a group of citizens react when faced with any sort of adversity.
This year, although tough for all Americans, has been eye opening as it pertains to Hawaii. And not in a good way.
This is the best news for Kauai!! Finally our economy may not continue to be dictated by the whims of Kawakami! Also, the large group of second homeowners (and property tax payers) can have a voice.
I’ve spoken with a few people born and raised on Kauai… The sentiment I got was most are not happy with Kawakami.
They have referred to him as a trust fund baby who hasn’t had to work a real day in his life, other than at the family store before they sold to Times.
I asked about all the “positive” Kawakami comments on FB, etc. I was told that the county deletes the overwhelming majority of negative feedback.
No Governor, in any State, should have unlimited “Emergency Authority”.
Several State Supreme Court cases have confirmed this. Unfortunately, in a one party State like Hawaii, the vote would rarely go against another fellow party member.
As far as larger States go ( the 4 largest) Florida got it right.
Relatively low unemployment, no gestapo type tactics from authorities over masks and gatherings. Better Covid metrics than their large State counterparts. And above all else, their State citizens are relatively happy. Florida has proven that lockdowns and mandates have no concernable effect on Covid numbers. In fact places like CA and NY are leaning more towards the Florida model, especially when it comes to the vaccine. Oh, and schools have been open in FL since August.
Compare that to the depressed sentiment in Hawaii. Where we enjoy the highest unemployment, schools closed for nearly a year and no real plan in place to rebound.
You can live life in a depressed State without the ability to enjoy more than 5 people, OR actually have a life and happiness, with a future for your kids…
I can understand both sides. It is difficult for travelers to try to figure out what applies to what island. We traveled to Oahu – Kauai – Oahu in October, and it was tricky figuring things out because things were constantly changing. We had reservations to fly from L.A. on 10/16, so we made the 72 hr. cutoff barely. But we understood. Setting one set of rules for the entire state would simplify matters, but each island is different. Tough call, in my opinion. We appreciate your keeping us informed and trying to resolve this
Hi Yolanda.
Thanks for your input on this complicated issue.
Aloha.
What people fail to grasp is how different and limited hospital capacity is on the outer islands…we can’t just simply drive patients to the next county where there may be more space available. Maui is currently experiencing limited bed availability at its largest hospital, and their cases have been consistently high for the better part of a month. What happens when they reach capacity but cases are still trending up? Hawai’i is in a much more unique situation than the mainland and Ige should NOT be able to dictate what rules each county mayor imposes as he’s already demonstrated his inability to manage this crisis. The Safe Travel rules are not that complicated if one does a bit of research prior to booking their trip. People want to travel here without really putting any effort or thought into it. Times have changed, things are different now and with the 3 viral mutations currently spreading on the mainland, contagion and infection rates are guaranteed to increase….especially once those mutations find their way here in significant numbers. I simply can’t understand why people feel entitled to travel here but not follow our protocols. What’s so wrong with being patient and waiting until more of the population has been vaccinated and cases in the US start trending lower?
Maui hospital capacity issues have nothing to do with Covid infections. Same goes for ICU and Ventilator usgae… extremely low numbers.
Mahalo for spreading the word.
I wrote my letter the other day to Daynette “Dee” Morikawa of Kauai
Please flood her phone and emails with letters of support. One state, one rule.
Majority Floor Leader
House of Representatives – 16th District
State of Hawai’i
Office: (808) 586-6280 Toll Free: 274-3141, ext. 66280
Email: [email protected]
I hope it passes, and I hope they make the 1 rule the same as Kauai’s for all islands.