Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Monday, December 2, 2024 71° Today's Paper


Top News

All state House members, staff must be fully vaccinated starting Sept. 30

JAMM AQUINO / FEB. 2
                                House Speaker Scott K. Saiki speaks during a legislative session inside the House chambers at the state Capitol.

JAMM AQUINO / FEB. 2

House Speaker Scott K. Saiki speaks during a legislative session inside the House chambers at the state Capitol.

All state House members and their staffs must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as of Sept. 30 or provide weekly proof of negative test results.

The House and staff members can pick from any of the vaccines that are authorized for emergency use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

In a statement, House Speaker Scott Saiki said:

“The House of Representatives’ top priority is the health and safety of Hawaiʻi residents. The most effective way to make this clear is to impose a vaccination requirement upon ourselves. State government must take the lead to protect Hawaiʻi residents.”

The policy applies to all House members, “employees, and volunteers of the House of Representatives, both on Capitol premises and wherever personal interaction may occur during the course of business. It is intended to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus amongst all individuals, including members of the public such as visitors, testifiers, vendors, and constituents.”

All House members must provide a proof of vaccination or weekly COVID-19 testing results to the chief clerk, who is responsible for administering the policy.

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines. Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.