HOUSTON – Due to the rise of COVID-19 cases in Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott has expanded the ability of mayors and county judges to place restrictions on outdoor gatherings of over 100 people.
Previously, the governor only applied this ability to local leaders on gatherings of 500 people or more.
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Abbott also directed the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to enforce emergency rules that will provide strict health and safety standards and procedures related to COVID-19 for child care centers in the state.
The governor’s decision was based on the increase in COVID-19 transmission stemming from large gatherings and child care centers.
“These are just some of the steps Texas will take to contain the rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations,” Abbott said. “Today’s proclamation and emergency rules will aid in that effort in two key ways: allowing restrictions on large gatherings where COVID-19 is easily spread and implementing a statewide standard of infection control for child care centers. However, as we face this challenge, there is no substitute for personal responsibility. I urge all Texans to do everything in their power to reduce the transmission of the coronavirus by wearing a face mask, washing their hands often, and staying six feet apart from others.”