Governor’s Strike Force To Open Texas Executive Order GA 28 & GA 29
On Friday, June 26, Governor Greg Abbott announced EXECUTIVE ORDER GA 28 relating to the targeted response to the COVID-19 disaster as part of the reopening of Texas.
County judges and mayors, as appropriate, can prohibit certain outdoor gatherings of over 100 people by withholding approval of such gatherings, or can approve such gatherings with any conditions or restrictions not inconsistent with GA-28.
The order includes the following (in addition to other mandates; the full order can be found here):
- All bars and similar establishments that receive more than 51% of their gross receipts from the sale of alcoholic beverages are required to close at 12:00 PM today. These businesses may remain open for delivery and take-out, including for alcoholic beverages, as authorized by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.
- Restaurants may remain open for dine-in service, but at a capacity not to exceed 50% of total listed indoor occupancy, beginning Monday, June 29, 2020.
- Rafting and tubing businesses must close.
- Outdoor gatherings of 100 or more people must be approved by local governments, with certain exceptions.
“As I said from the start, if the positivity rate rose above 10%, the State of Texas would take further action to mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” said Governor Abbott. “At this time, it is clear that the rise in cases is largely driven by certain types of activities, including Texans congregating in bars. The actions in this executive order are essential to our mission to swiftly contain this virus and protect public health. We want this to be as limited in duration as possible. However, we can only slow the spread if everyone in Texas does their part. Every Texan has a responsibility to themselves and their loved ones to wear a mask, wash their hands, stay six feet apart from others in public, and stay home if they can. I know that our collective action can lead to a reduction in the spread of COVID-19 because we have done it before, and we will do it again.”
On July 2, Governor Abbott issued EXECUTIVE ORDER GA 29 requiring all Texans to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth in public spaces, with few exceptions, in counties with 20 or more positive COVID-19 cases.
The Governor also issued a proclamation giving mayors and county judges the ability to impose restrictions on some outdoor gatherings of over 10.
Under the direction of Governor Abbott, with the advice of the Lt. Governor, Speaker of the House, Attorney General, and Texas Comptroller:
The Governor’s Strike Force to Open Texas will safely and strategically restart and revitalize all aspects of the Lone Star State—work, school, entertainment, and culture.
Business Resources:
- DSHS Printable Sign: Best Health Practices To Avoid COVID-19
- DSHS Printable Sign: How To Wash Your Hands
- OSHA: Guidance on Returning to Work
- SBA: Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program
Strike Force to Open Texas Arts, Culture, and Entertainment Working Group
Brendon Anthony, Working Group Leader
Director of the Texas Music Office in the Office of Governor; previously a touring and recording musician, producer, artist consultant, head of ecommerce and artists relations.
email Brendon