HB1286 Passes Second Reading, Moves to Committee for Further Discussion

A measure that would create a statewide policy to the safe travels program for COVID-19 passed its second reading on the House floor, Friday, Feb. 12, and has been referred to the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA) Committee.

Officials from Hawai‘i Legislature’s Public Access Room told Kaua‘i Now News that it isn’t uncommon for bills to pass second reading, adding the fate of HB1286 HD1 will be determined next week in committee.

Click here to read the latest amendments to the bill as well as its status in the Legislature.

The bill has been heavily criticized by the Kaua‘i community who say the measure takes power away from the counties in how to handle the health crisis.

As of Friday, Feb. 12, the Garden Island has a cumulative case count of 179 infections, the lowest in the state.

Testimony on the issue has been divided. Those opposing the measure believe a unified policy would be detrimental to Kaua‘i County as the health challenges they face are unique to other counties in the state. Those who support the bill indicate Kauai’s community is dying and the longer travel is restricted, the worse the economic situation will become.