AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- The State of Texas is ready to move on to the second phase of re-opening the state's economy, Gov. Greg Abbott announced Monday.
"Today, tomorrow, and every day going forward is one step closer to medical discoveries that can treat and protect people from COVID-19 - but until that day comes, our focus is keeping Texans safe while restoring their ability to get back to work, open their businesses, pay their bills, and put food on their tables," Abbott said.
Abbott pointed out two key metrics - the positivity rate and the number of hospitalized cases of COVID-19 - have both been trending downward since April 13.
"By continuing to use safe practices, we are slowing the spread of COVID-19 and protecting our most vulnerable. Now more than ever, we need to work together as one Texas. I ask all Texans to continue heeding the guidance of our state and federal medical experts and do their part to protect public health. If we all unite in our resolve, we will overcome this challenge."
Via new executive orders, the following businesses can re-open:
- Effective immediately: Other personal care/service businesses (massage parlors, tattoo studios, hair treatment), child care centers, and youth clubs.
- Effective May 22: Restaurants can re-open to 50% of their dine-in capacity. Dine-in capacity does not include outdoor seating areas, as long as social distancing can be maintained.
- Effective May 22: Bars, wine tasting rooms, breweries can re-open at 25% capacity.
- Effective May 22: Bowling allerys, bingo halls, skating rinks, aquariums, and natural caverns at 25% capacity.
- Effective May 29: Zoos, at 25% capacity.
- Effective May 31: Summer camps, pro sports (without spectators). Youth sports can begin holding practices, with games or competitions beginning June 15.
All re-opened businesses must follow the state's minimum standard health protocols. For details and a full list of guidelines, openings, and relevant dates, visit www.gov.texas.gov/opentexas.
Areas of the state that have seen outbreaks recently will see the dates above delayed a week to May 29. These areas include El Paso, Randall, Potter, Moore, and Deaf Smith Counties.
Abbott also said that school districts can resume summer school on or after June 1, as long as school districts follow the state's health protocols and can maintain social distancing.
