AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- The City of Austin and Travis County have extended the "Stay Home-Work Safe" orders until May 8.
The original orders were set to expire at 11:59 p.m. on Monday. A key change in the new version of the orders is that everyone over the age of 10 wear face coverings when out in public.
“Face coverings are another key piece in flattening the curve,” said Austin-Travis County Interim Health Authority Dr. Mark Escott. “It is critical that the public understand that this will not only help in slowing the spread of the disease, but face coverings are also part of our foreseeable future to safely reopen our society.”
The additional requirement only means fabric face coverings, not medical grade masks or N-95 respirators. Scarves, bandannas, and other simple coverings work well.
“Our extended orders carry a very simple message, cover your nose and mouth when out in public to save lives,” said Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt. “Wearing a face covering in addition to the other steps the public has been taking are essential to support our community and keep everyone healthy.”
Officials say the updated orders match those of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, and the state's definition of essential businesses.
“I continue to be impressed with the resiliency and the spirit of our Austin community,” said Austin Mayor Steve Adler. “We’ve done so well, and now we have to do more. Wearing face coverings, that can be made at home from things around the house, will help protect store clerks and those around us. Let’s take care of each other.”
An additional change in the new orders covers individuals living with someone either being tested or that has tested positive for COVID-19. In that case, all residents of the same location must isolate until cleared by the health authority.
Additionally, fabric stores are now considered an essential business for the sole purpose of selling fabric and supplies necessary for the creation of fabric face coverings. The stores are subject to physical distancing requirements. The updated orders specify that fabric stores should limit the number of customers and staff inside the store at one time to no more than ten people, and establish sufficient spacing for queuing inside and outside of the business.
