Gov. Abbott Announces Plan to Reopen Texas Businesses
April 18, 2020 - San Antonio
Gubernatorial goals. “Texans are battling a colossal challenge, an invisible enemy that has tested our lives and our livelihoods,” said Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Friday. Screenshot: YouTube.
By Jade Esteban Estrada - Political Columnist, San Antonio Sentinel
Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Friday announced the formation of a task force that will advise him on the best strategies to revive the economy by safely reopening businesses across the state. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Texas House Speaker Dennis Bonnen, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, and Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar have been tapped to lead the initiative. The goal is to begin the process of getting “Texas back to work,” Abbott said during a televised address.
On April 20, state parks will be permitted to reopen. Visitors, as per the local mandate effective the same day, must wear face mask coverings and maintain a six-feet distance from individuals who are not a member of their household unit. These units may not exceed five people.
Beginning April 22, current restrictions on surgeries in hospitals and clinics will be loosened so that medical professionals may diagnose and treat patients without the need of an exemption.
On April 24, the Republican governor will roll out “retail-to-go,” a temporary order that will allow consumers to buy products via pick-up or delivery service. Entering a store, however, will be prohibited.
RELATED: Gov. Abbott Extends Social Distancing Through April; Texas Schools Closed Until May 4
Abbott’s social distancing order is set to expire at the end of April. On April 27, he will announce further developments, and will consider eliminating last month’s stay home directive.
Lastly, the new declaration will keep public and private schools closed for the reminder of the 2019-2020 academic year. This also includes higher-level learning institutions.
“Step by step, we will open Texas,” Abbott said.
Jade Esteban Estrada is a political columnist at the San Antonio Sentinel. He can be reached at jade@sasentinel.com.