Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Governor Abbott Announces More Re-Opening Orders

Governor Greg Abbott has updated his COVID-19 executive orders to start the re-opening of many more Texas businesses.

As of May 1, retail stores, restaurants, movie theatres, malls, and museums are allowed to open up to 25% occupancy.  The occupancy can expand to 50% on May 18 under phase 2 if there is no surge in COVID-19 cases. The Governor noted that while the businesses are allowed to open, there is no requirement to do so if business owners feel uncomfortable.

Local healthcare providers who are in private practice are also allowed to re-open as of May 1. In all cases, the businesses are asked to follow social distancing guidelines.

Businesses that cannot re-open as of yet include hair salons, bars, and gyms. The Governor said he hopes that they would be allowed to open no later than mid-May. He made the changes after creating and consulting with the newly created Governor’s Strike Force to Open Texas.

Earlier this month, he allowed for the opening state parks during daytime hours, elective surgeries, and a retail-to-go model.

“The Governor’s orders support a safe and responsible re-opening of many Southlake businesses,” said Southlake Mayor Laura Hill. “We’ve already seen many of our stores embrace the curbside pick-up and the retail-to-go model; I know our business owners will find success working with the new changes as well.”

At their April 21 meeting, the Southlake City Council discussed the formation of a business leaders task force to support Southake’s business and economic re-opening. To hear the Council’s discussion, click here.

For the latest COVID-19 related updates and links to county, state, and federal sites, visit www.ProtectSouthlake.com. For a list of City E-Services and Southlake business resources related to the re-opening, visit www.CityofSouthlake.com. Be sure to follow Mayor Hill’s Facebook page and the City’s social media for the latest City news.

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