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The Maui News
An increase in complaints about people not wearing face coverings is leading to more police education and enforcement of violations, police said Monday.
"Warnings and citations are being given," said Maui police spokeswoman Lt. Audra Sellers. "What we're looking for is voluntary compliance. Voluntary compliance isn't happening, so we have to cite people."
Police are running special operations to address face-covering and other emergency rule violations, Sellers said.
On Sunday, police issued 25 warnings and 10 citations in the Lahaina Patrol District, she said. She said many of the citations probably were issued on Front Street, which has been busier with the arrival of more trans-Pacific travelers.
In Maui County, masks are required in public, except when people are exercising, eating, drinking or smoking.
A conviction for violating the public health emergency rules is a misdemeanor offense carrying a penalty of up to one year in jail and up to a $5,000 fine.
With the mask-wearing rules publicized in a variety of ways, "you can't say you don't know," Sellers said.
"It's at the airport when you land, it's at the car rentals and hotels," she said. "It's all over the internet and social media. For some reason, people are still not wearing masks."
For now, gaiters and bandannas are on a county list of unpermitted masks, although county officials have said that may change.