Gov. David Ige released Executive Order 21-05, taking effect immediately, implementing statewide restrictions on social gatherings, restaurants, bars and social establishments.
Unless superseded, the executive order that will end Oct. 18 also sets limits on professional events.
"The Delta variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has changed the course of the pandemic in Hawaiʻi. We are seeing case numbers in the 600s – the highest numbers we’ve seen since this pandemic began,” Ige said. “This requires immediate and serious attention to avert unmanageable strains on our health-care system and other catastrophic impacts to the state.”
Social gatherings will be limited to no more than 10 people indoors and no more than 25 outdoors, according to the governor's website.
Under the restrictions, those visiting restaurants, bars and social establishments must remain seated with parties maintaining at least 6 feet distancing between groups and masks being worn at all times except when actively eating or drinking.
Professional events should follow “all state and county orders, rules and directives regarding operation. Those organizing professional events larger than fifty (50) persons, in order to ensure appropriate safe practices, shall notify and consult with the appropriate county agency reasonably prior to the event,” the executive order said.