Austin leaders praise Gov. Abbott's latest order, extend City orders

Austin Mayor Steve Adler
Photo credit Rick Kern/WireImage

AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Leaders in Austin and Travis County are praising Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's latest efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19, and are issuing new orders to help fight the surge in Travis County.

Dr. Mark Escott, interim health authority for Austin-Travis County, as well as Austin Mayor Steve Adler and Travis County Judge Sam Biscoe, all applauded the new order from Abbott.

"I am grateful that as the science supporting the effectiveness of facial coverings has improved, the Governor has been persistent in his public messaging regarding the importance of masking in our fight against COVID-19," Escott said. "Today, he truly demonstrated his commitment to both public health and the health of the economy through GA-29. This is not a partisan issue, it is a human issue, and Texas is demonstrating we can be stronger together."

Adler updated the City's order Thursday night to reflect the latest changes from the state.

"This new local order -- takes full advantage of new tools in the Governor’s latest orders – making masks mandatory and enforceable while also prohibiting groups over ten," Adler said. "It is now on each of us to do our part – for our communities and for our loved ones – especially this holiday weekend."

In addition to enforcing mandatory face coverings, Austin-Travis County encourages residents to continue to abide by the following measures outlined in previous orders:

  • Gatherings of 10 or more people are prohibited.
  • Maintain six feet distance from people outside of your household whenever possible.
  • Do not leave your home except to conduct essential activities.
  • Stay home if you are sick.
  • Maintain proper personal hygiene by washing hands frequently.

Biscoe said he "appreciates Governor Abbott for issuing Executive Order GA-29 mandating masks in Texas," saying that the county will actively enforce the order. Also, county officials said Biscoe "has no intention of putting in place a permitting process for [gatherings in excess of 10 people>, at least through the July 4th holiday weekend. Therefore, per the Governor's order today, all such gatherings are prohibited in unincorporated areas of Travis County."

More information on the latest orders is available on the City's website at www.austintexas.gov/COVID19.