AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Local officials are reacting to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's plan to continue re-opening the state's economy, with many businesses able to open in a limited capacity beginning Friday.
Abbott's order also supersedes local mandates requiring facial coverings, including those in Austin and Travis County. The state guidelines strongly recommend wearing a mask or covering when social distancing can't be maintained, but there is no requirement.
Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt, in a statement posted to Twitter, agreed that business should re-open, but "only in a measured manner guided by science."
Austin Mayor Steve Adler spent most of his nightly "Got A Minute" web series on the governor's orders, and how Austin can keep a handle on COVID-19 moving forward.
District 4 City Councilman Greg Casar blasted Abbott's plan on Twitter, saying the plan "puts us on a path towards more [COVID-19> hospitalizations."
Alamo Drafthouse, on Twitter, said its Texas theaters will remain closed this weekend. "Opening safely is a very complex project that involves countless new procedures and equipment, all of which require extensive training. This is something we cannot and will not do casually or quickly."