Governor Abbott to Lift Statewide Mask Mandate
Texas Governor Gregg Abbott has issued an Executive Order lifting the mask mandate previously in effect for the Lone Star State. The new order rescinds the majority of earlier orders made concerning COVID-19. The order goes into effect next Wednesday, March 10th and will permit businesses of all types to operate at 100% capacity.
Establishments may still choose to limit capacity and enforce safety protocols at their discretion. Businesses have the right to refuse service to those not adhering to safety guidelines, but under the new Executive Order, patrons cannot be held criminally liable for noncompliance.
Should COVID hospitalizations in any of the state’s 22 hospital regions rise above 15% of total bed capacity for seven straight days, a County Judge may rule to re-implement COVID mitigation procedures. However, should restrictions be imposed at a County level, they may not reduce overall operating capacity by less than 50%.
In an address to the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, Governor Abbott stated the following:
“With the medical advancements of vaccines and antibody therapeutic drugs, Texas now has the tools to protect Texans from the virus. We must now do more to restore livelihoods and normalcy for Texans by opening Texas 100 percent. Make no mistake, COVID-19 has not disappeared, but it is clear from the recoveries, vaccinations, reduced hospitalizations, and safe practices that Texans are using that state mandates are no longer needed. Today’s announcement does not abandon safe practices that Texans have mastered over the past year. Instead, it is a reminder that each person has a role to play in their own personal safety and the safety of others. With this executive order, we are ensuring that all businesses and families in Texas have the freedom to determine their own destiny.”
Meanwhile in Austin, Mayor Steve Adler was reportedly “dumbfounded” over Abbott’s decision, stating the move was “mind-boggling, given where we are.” This comes at a time when only 10% of Austin’s community has been fully vaccinated. Mayor Addler plans to continue the city’s mask mandate, and the Travis County Chamber of Commerce urges members to continue following safety protocol, including the requirement of masks.
Per federal rules regarding public transport, the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport will continue to require that passengers wear masks aboard flights and inside the terminals. Likewise, Capital Metro will maintain its mask requirements for passengers wishing to board a bus.
Austin retailers such as Target, H-E-B and Randalls will require masks for their employees, while strongly encouraging the practice among patrons. Many of Austin’s entertainment venues are opting to remain closed for the time being, while others will open with safety measures in place. The Alamo Drafthouse and Paramount Theater have both released statements, confirming that masks will be required for entry and that limited capacities will be implemented until further notice.
We at Mount Bonnell will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation, bringing you updates and news to help you stay safe and informed.
