Texas Begins Reopening
Texas Governor Abbot has issued orders to allow partial reopening of the state’s economy. His orders also establish an expert advisory commission to evaluate the pandemic’s progress as well as the state’s ability to handle resumption of some business activities.
This week, state parks will be reopened to the public, although appropriate social distancing protocols will be required.
Some hospitals and clinics will be allowed to resume performing certain treatments and surgical procedures that have been recently curtailed due to hospital isolation.
On Friday, most retail stores will be allowed to sell products for delivery to homes or allow curb pickup at store location. Again, employees and customers alike will be expected to take all reasonable precautions to avoid spreading the virus.
Further re-opening of the Texas economy will be evaluated and considered by both the governor and the newly-appointed pandemic committee.
Although no official statements have been made to this effect, it currently seems unlikely that major changes in the state-wid lockdown will be implemented before the end of April.