Several states have now issued “stay at home” orders to help keep people isolated to combat the spread of COVID-19. Those states include California, New York, Illinois, Connecticut, New Jersey, Louisiana, Ohio, Delaware, Michigan, and Massachusetts.   Individual cities in other states have also imposed such orders, including Kansas City, MO, Nashville, St. Louis, Philadelphia, and Dallas County, Texas.

In Hawaii, both Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino have issued “stay at home, work at home” orders.  Those who need to go out to provide or receive essential services, including food and medications, are allowed to do so.

Kaua’i County Mayor Derek Kawakami last week imposed a curfew from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m., but a Kaua’i County release says that Mayor Kawakami will impose a “stay at home, work at home” order today, Monday, Mat. 23.  The order is expected to be similar to the orders on O’ahu and Maui and prohibit all travel unless for it is for critical health and safety purposes, shopping for food or other important consumer products. This anticipated order exempts those doing work that provides essential products. First responders, health care facilities, banks, gas stations, farming and fishing, hardware stores, delivery services, professional services, restaurants doing delivery and carryout services, and critical trades are among those that will keep operating.  Kaua`i residents could engage in outdoor activities, like walking, running, surfing and other healthy outdoor activities, but are urged always to maintain six-foot social distancing.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim has asked residents to use their good judgment to avoid the close contact that helps spread the disease and has closed county beach parks.  New West Broadcasting (KWXX, B97-B93) General Manager Chris Leonard interviewed Mayor Kim on Saturday, Mar. 21.  Click here to hear the 26-minute interview.