Visitors to most state facilities will be required to show proof of vaccination and a COVID test

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Visitors to most state facilities – including public schools and libraries will be required to show they are vaccinated or provide a negative COVID test result if they come into contact with an employee of state, under a new decree signed by the governor.

The expansive rule, which takes effect Monday, comes as Hawaii continues to face an alarming rise in COVID cases that threaten to overwhelm the healthcare system.

Details on exactly how visitors to state facilities would provide proof of vaccination or testing were not immediately released. There was also some confusion as to where the order would apply.

The governor’s order excludes certain facilities from the rule, including airports, beach parks, correctional facilities and public housing projects.

The governor’s office also said state courts would not be subject to the order.

The order defines a visitor as any person 12 years of age and over, and therefore eligible for vaccination.

Governor David Ige previously required vaccinations or weekly tests for all state employees and all counties have similar rules. Also as part of his decree, he extended his vaccination or testing rules to all contractors who enter, work or provide services at a state facility.

Companies that employ government contractors will need to certify that their employees are vaccinated.

Workers who are not vaccinated will need to test negative for COVID every week.

State rules for visitors to its properties come as Oahu and Maui prepare to launch so-called “vaccine pass” programs for restaurants, bars, gyms and other entertainment venues.

Safe Access Oahu goes into effect Monday.

This story will be updated.

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