Texas Governor Gregg Abbott issued a statewide disaster proclamation that has changed to reflect newly acquired knowledge about COVID-19.
The most recent change added four bans that are effective Friday, March 20, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. through Friday, April 3, 2020 at 11:59 p.m.
The list of bans are as follows:
–Every person in Texas shall avoid gathering in groups of ten or more people.
–Every person in Texas shall avoid eating and/or drinking at bars, restaurants, and food courts. Drive-thru, pickup and delivery options are still allowed and encouraged. No visiting gyms or massage parlors.
In a previous declaration the State of Texas allowed the sale of alcoholic beverages with meals via delivery.
–People shall not visit nursing homes or retirement or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance.
–Schools are to remain closed.
Social Distancing is keeping a good SIX FEET or more between you and other people while in public; which lessens the spread of illnesses like COVID-19.
In addition to physical distancing, other ways you can socially distance is by:
–Working from home instead of at the office
–Closing schools or switching to online classes
–Visiting loved ones by electronic devices instead of in person
–Cancelling or postponing conferences and large meetings
Last week, Governor Abbott suspended various provisions of the Texas open meeting Act to allow for telephonic or video conference meetings for a governmental body.
The City of Teague conducted their March 23, 2020 meeting in this manner.
Many places are still open to the public, as long as attempts to stop the spread of COVID-19 are made.
Included are grocery stores, gas stations, parks, banks, and other locations.
The current order is for two weeks but is subject to extension if deemed necessary.
