Hawai‘i Judiciary Limiting Access to Facilities

Maui Now graphic. Background image file by Wendy Osher.

The Hawaiʻi State Judiciary announced today that beginning Monday, March 16, it will restrict access to anyone who has a fever, cough, or other respiratory symptoms; has traveled outside Hawaiʻi in the past 14 days; or who has had close prolonged contact with a person who has or is suspected to have COVID-19.

Such individuals will not be allowed to enter courthouses and other Judiciary facilities. Signs to this effect will be posted in all buildings. Each sign will include phone numbers to call if the advisement applies to them.

“As more information has become available, we believe it’s prudent to put these additional precautions in place,” said Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald. “We want to ensure a safe environment for everyone in our courthouses and other facilities.”

Additionally, the Judiciary will close Aliʻiolani Hale, home of the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court, to anyone without official court business.

The Supreme Court Law Library, which is located in Aliʻiolani Hale, will be closed. Its Hawaiʻi State Law Library System website offers a host of resources and services, including “ask a librarian” for legal information. For assistance, please call (808) 539-4964.

The King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center, which provides educational programs for schools and the community, will also be closed. Affected groups, including tour companies, have been notified of the closure.

“Limiting public access to Aliiolani Hale was a difficult decision,” said Chief Justice Recktenwald. “The Law Library and Judiciary History Center are important resources in our community. However, itʻs the right thing to do at this time.”