Today (April 17, 2020), Governor Greg Abbott addressed the state in a press conference, noting the declining rate of COVID-19 cases in Texas. From this assessment, Abbott has issued an Executive Order that will reopen Texas businesses and activities gradually and safely.
Openings Next Week Starting on Monday, April 20, state parks will be reopened under social distancing guidelines. On Tuesday, April 22, restrictions on medical procedures will be loosened to include services that do not compromise the availability of PPE or capacity to treat COVID-19 patients. All retailers are able to operate on a “Retail-To-Go” model beginning next Friday, April 24. If this order applies to your business, please note that you must follow the retail guidelines set in place by the Texas Department of State Health Services. For full details on the retail order, click here.
Looking Ahead On Monday, April 27, additional methods of business and activity re-opening will be announced. The governor also expects to announce updated comprehensive testing measures. Even more business openings will be determined in May when there is additional evidence of declining COVID-19 cases and adequate testing is implemented.
Schools are still to remain closed for the rest of the school year.