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Aloha Neighbors,
I hope you are well and continue to social distance and be healthy!
Some of you told us you were unfortunately still having problems filing for Unemployment Insurance. The Department of Labor & Industrial Relations (DLIR) Director said that the unprecedented numbers of filings –almost 117,000 for March—caused the problem.The good news is that the UI benefits will be greater when they do come, so keep trying:
- Filing online: Try again. DLIR had to submit to the feds an accounting for the monthly claims but because of the numbers, it took longer than the usual. The expected time to complete the accounting was 12:00 noon today so it should be up and running. So try again. https://huiclaims.hawaii.gov/#/
- Phone system: It is operational. The number previously posted was in error. Here is the correct number: HUI Password Reset: (833) 901-2272; and for UI Phone Appointments: (833) 901-2275
The Senate Special Committee on COVID-19 met Tuesday. In addition to the small business measures discussed in an earlier email, the committee urged the State to engage in a number of more aggressive measures to reduce community spread e.g., stronger messaging on social distancing, transmission prevention measures, concerns about the release of prisoners who have no housing upon release, responsibility in purchasing consumer products so there is enough for everyone. See highlights of the meeting.
On Tuesday, the special committee also sent a letter urging Governor Ige and the Department of Health to, “put in place as soon as possible a public health alert network system to provide critical information and reminders about COVID-19.” This system could more aggressively send messages to everyone to keep off of beaches, recreation areas and other closed public spaces to reduce the spread of the virus. On Wednesday, the Governor announced that his administration is looking in to implementing such a system that has been very successful in other parts of the nation and the world. See Star-Advertiser article.
Continue to support our district restaurants. We have a couple restaurants that have closed but a couple that have since opened so please visit our restaurants page if you are looking for takeout sustenance.
Finally, on the use of masks. Experts have not been in agreement on the use of masks but we have seen the reduction of spread in Hong Kong, South Korea and Singapore. As a precaution the senate special committee urged the Governor to encourage their usage in public places, particularly grocery stores and food service establishments. We can all do our share in fighting the COVID-19 virus by wearing a mask when you are in public places. Think about it. Masks for All: something to think about.
Keep healthy!
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