Gov. Greg Abbott announced this week a multi-phase plan to gradually reopen businesses in Texas. Abbott allowed his statewide stay-at-home order to expire April 30, clearing the way for select businesses to reopen beginning today, May 1, with restrictions.
Highlights of Gov. Abbott’s plan include:
- As of May 1, Phase 1 businesses may reopen at 25 percent occupancy.
- Phase 1 businesses include retail, malls, restaurants, movie theaters, doctor and dental offices.
- The previous requirements of retailers to offer items only by pick-up, delivery and mail have been removed.
- Museums and libraries may also reopen but must keep their interactive exhibits closed.
- Places of worship can expand their services.
- Outdoor sports with no more than four participants are allowed.
- Phase 2 could come May 18, depending on COVID-19 statistics, and will allow businesses to operate at 50 percent capacity.
Abbott’s order supersedes all county or city orders requiring non-essential businesses to remain closed. The order does not apply to businesses previously deemed essential, such as grocery stores and pharmacies.
Website: www.cor.net/coronavirus
