Ige says he is not ready to institute a vaccination warrant for state agents

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – As vaccinations have slowed in the islands and new infections have increased, some are considering vaccination warrants for state officials.

Governor David Ige told Hawaii News Now on Tuesday that the state can legally require COVID-19 injections for state employees. But he wants to wait until the FDA gives full approval for the vaccinations.

They currently have emergency approval. There is no specific timeline for full FDA approval.

Other jurisdictions, including California and New York City, have already moved forward by making the vaccine mandatory for officials and testing those who refuse.

Ige says he’s not swayed by their decisions.

Some state agencies have previously said that asking for employee immunization status is not allowed because it is private medical information. But under the direction of the attorney general, the state can ask workers whether or not they have received the COVID vaccine and may require that state workers receive it.

“We know and believe that we have the legal authority to mandate the vaccine prior to this full use authorization. It wouldn’t be our preference, ”said Ige.

The governor said he was considering different policies, including a general mandate.

“I think we would look at both policies,” Ige said.

“We want to be fair to everyone and that the same guidelines apply to everyone and to all public servants, but it is clear that some work situations are different. This may require us to have a different policy.

State officials are currently not required to be vaccinated, but the state is reviewing high-risk assembly places like prisons and prisons.

There have been union rumors that workers could quit if they were forced to get vaccinated.

“We are concerned about the reaction of employees,” Ige said.

“How many of them would change their employment status or choose to leave if we demand it is something we consider, but I think it is a secondary consideration,” he added.

Ige says if state officials are asked about their immunization status, they don’t have to respond.

Meanwhile, Ige has expressed concern over the continued increase in new cases of COVID.

Some 105 people were hospitalized with COVID statewide on Tuesday. Ige said if hospitalizations do not decrease, hospitals may again have to suspend performing elective surgeries.

“They (the hospitals) said everything was under control at this point,” Ige said.

Ige said he was also concerned about outbreaks in restaurants, bars, workplaces, churches and at informal gatherings, but would not say if restrictions would tighten in those areas first.

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