On April 17, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott laid out the state’s plans for reopening the Texas economy from the Covid-19 crisis.
As part of his plan, the governor issued an executive order which amends the current Texas “stay at home order” for the retail sector, according to the Texas Retailers Association (TRA). The amended order allows for those retailers who are not covered by DHS/CISA guidance, essentially those who were up to now not deemed essential, to reopen for to-go or delivery only, as of next Friday, April 24. This order does not change the operations of those retailers who have been operating as current essential businesses such as grocery, pharmacy, home improvement, etc. … Therefore, as of next Friday, April 24, the entire retail sector in Texas will be allowed to operate at some level, the TRA says.
“To be clear, the Governor’s ‘stay at home order’ is still in effect until April 30, with the caveat for the retail sector issued today [April 17]. Therefore, all previously ordered CDC guidance and social distancing practice in the Governor’s ‘stay at home order’ remain in effect until April 30,” the TRA says.
“Texans are battling a colossal challenge—an invisible enemy that has tested our lives and our livelihoods—but overcoming challenges is part of who we are as Texans,” Abbott said. “We have shown that Texas can continue our efforts to contain Covid-19 while also adopting safe standards that will allow us to begin the process of reopening Texas. The Strike Force to Open Texas brings together nationally recognized medical experts with public and private sector leaders to achieve this mission. By coming together, we can get Texans back to work, practice safe standards that will prevent the spread of Covid-19, and we can overcome this pandemic.”
James Huffines will lead the advisory strike force and Mike Toomey will serve as chief operating officer. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, House Speaker Dennis Bonnen, Attorney General Ken Paxton and Comptroller Glenn Hegar will serve as consulting members.
In addition, the Governor has appointed Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner John Hellerstedt, MD, as chief medical officer of the strike force. Dr. Hellerstedt will be supported by three chief medical advisors.
The medical team will work alongside a Special Advisory Council which will share innovative ideas to help businesses strategically reopen while containing the spread of Covid-19. The council consists of 39 business leaders representing the state’s regions and industries. The advisory council will collaborate with working groups to devise strategies, statewide standards and appropriate time frames to reopen the Lone Star State while prioritizing the health and safety of all Texans.
The strike force will immediately begin providing input on potential additional openings of activities and services in Texas consistent with guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The Governor also announced that he will have further information regarding the re-opening of the Texas economy, to be announced on April 27.
