Our Path to the New Normal
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Aloha,
As the Governor announces the reopening of state parks and a limited number of businesses, the Legislature is anticipating reconvening the regular session. Although Senate offices are still closed, my staff and I are still working on behalf of our district. We are still answering voicemails and emails in order to take care of your questions and concerns. |
Although we are slowly returning to our "new normal", please remember that we need to continue to follow recommendations by the CDC and local officials in order to prevent future outbreaks.
Kind regards,

Senator Lorraine R. Inouye
Senate District 4 | Hilo, Hāmākua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa, and Kona |
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7th Supplemental Emergency Proclamation
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Governor David Ige unveiled his 7th Supplemental Emergency Proclamation relating to COVID-19, announcing Phase 1 of opening businesses and activities.
The stay-at-home order is now being referred to as the “safer-at-home” order an includes the reopening of several businesses with limitations and protocols in place.
The next phase includes the reopening of: non-food agriculture such as landscaping, floral and ornamental; astronomical observatories and support facilities; car washes; pet grooming services; healthcare and social assistance including elective surgery and non emergent services; some nonprofits; retail businesses including apparel and electronics; certain shopping malls; and wholesale and warehousing operations.
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Public high schools across the state announced the dates, times and formats of their respective alternative graduation ceremonies. The list will continue to be updated on the Department’s website as more details become available. For more information, families are encouraged to contact their child’s school directly. Full release here: https://bit.ly/35kFhhz
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Capital Improvement Project Fund Release
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- Governor David Ige released $850,000 in General Obligation bonds for improvements and upgrades to the seawater system at the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority (NELHA). The addition of new funding will help NELHA in its mission to develop and diversify Hawaii’s economy, which is even more important at this time of economic upheaval caused by the closure and scaling back of many industries due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. (4/27/20)
- Governor David Ige released funds for Hale Hoʻōla Hāmākua in Honoka‘a. An amount of $2.1 million will be used for renovations, specifically for design, construction, and equipment funds for renovations, restoration, improvements, refurbishments, upgrades, and repairs at the hospital. (4/29/20)
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Waimea Virtual Town Hall on Facebook Live
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The May Waimea Community Association Town Meeting will be live streamed to Facebook on May 7th at 5:30 p.m.
The primary focus will be on COVID-19, its impact on our community, island and state, steps taken to support communities, and looking forward as we begin to think about what lies ahead.
Email Questions ahead of time to:
WaimeaCommunityAssocation@gmail.com
Meeting to be facilitated by WCA President James Hustace.
More info: www.WaimeaTown.org
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West Hawaii Virtual Town Hall on Facebook Live
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If you weren't able to join our West Hawaii Virtual Town Hall last week, you can catch all of the details here.
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On Wednesday, April 29, Governor Ige made an announcement that the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercises have been postponed to August 17-31, 2020 and that the Navy has agreed to only conduct the at-sea-portion this year to help keep Hawaiʻi safe as we continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. RIMPAC is held every two years and typically brings tens of thousands of military personnel to the State of Hawaiʻi.
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National Nurses Day and Week
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In honor of National Nurses Day and Week, whether you work in a hospital, clinic, nursing facility, care home or in our community - thank you for serving on the front lines to keep our people healthy and safe.
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If you have experienced a reduction in pay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for one-time emergency financial assistance of up to $1000.
Grants are funded and supported by the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Resilience Fund and Hawaii Island United Way's Rent and Utility Assistance Program to offer Emergency Financial Assistance for those impacted by COVID-19.
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