HOUSTON – Gov. Greg Abbott set the state on a road to reopen with an announcement last week that outlined steps to ease some coronavirus restrictions.
The first step happened Monday. The second step starts Wednesday and the third step starts Friday.
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Here’s what you need to know about Abbott’s plan.
April 20
An executive order will allow state parks to reopen Monday, April 20. Park visitors must wear face coverings or masks, stay 6 feet away from anyone who is not a member of their household, and limit gatherings to five people or less.
April 22
Beginning Wednesday, April 22 restrictions on elective medical procedures will be loosened. Abbott cited a diagnostic test for suspected cancer as an example.
“This will allow doctors to diagnose and treat more medical conditions without needing to get an exception,” Abbott said.
April 24
Beginning Friday, April 24, retailers considered nonessential can begin offering delivery and curbside pickup for online and over-the-phone orders, similar to the way restaurant takeout has operated during the coronavirus pandemic. Employees are required to work at least six feet apart, wear face coverings, and must be screened for symptoms before entering the building.
“This temporary plan allows you to be able to access more retailers while also minimizing contact with others,” Abbott said. “It also sets standards on retailers that ensures safe practices intended to reduce exposure to COVID-19.”
Go to https://dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/ to view the guidelines for Texas retailers.
April 27
Come Monday, April 27 Abbott will announce additional plans to reopen the state economy.
“In these next ten days, we will prepare a phased=in strategy to open Texas in a safe way,” Abbott said.
View the governor’s Friday news briefing in its entirety below.
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