Hawaii State Capitol to reopen to public on Monday

The Hawaii State Capitol and some other government facilities will reopen to the general public on Monday as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to decline, state officials announced Friday.

Visitors to the Capitol building will be able to enter from one of two entry points — the basement rotunda entrance and the first-floor rotunda at street level, according to a news release from the Governor’s Office. Security guards will operate a new screening process at each entry point, where visitors will be asked for their photo ID cards and proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result received within 72 hours of entering the Capitol.

Those who meet the requirements will receive a daily sticker that must be worn at all times while at the Capitol. Face masks are also required.

On Monday, the Legislature will accept in-person testimony at public hearings as well as written testimony and testimony via videoconference, the Senate said Friday.

Building hours are from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Legislature observes state holidays on Kuhio Day on March 25 and Good Friday on April 15.

Parking at the Capitol is limited to authorized personnel; public parking is available in Lot V (Vineyard Garage on Punchbowl), Lot G (Kalanimoku Building on Beretania and Punchbowl) and Lot L (Kinau Hale Building on Punchbowl).

The Department of Accounting and General Services also announced that it will reopen its facilities to the public on Monday, with proper documentation required.

Entry procedures will remain in place through at least March 25 and will vary by department, the Governor’s Office said.