Governor Abbott Issues Order to Begin Re-Opening State
Governor Greg Abbott on April 27th announced his latest executive order in response to COVID-19 that will begin the process of re-opening the state. The order, effective May 1, allows many businesses and venues to re-open, and expands operations of others that have been allowed to operate during the previous issued orders that have been in effect in counties and across the state since March.
For example, in-store retail services, dine-in restaurant services and shopping malls can resume operations at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of the establishments. Museums and libraries that operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy; provided, however, that (a) local public museums and local public libraries may so operate only if permitted by the local government, and (b) any components of museums or libraries that have interactive functions or exhibits, including child play areas, must remain closed. Movie theaters that operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of any individual theater for any screening. The order also includes directives for single-person offices. However, barber shops, salons and gyms remain closed until further details can be arranged to ensure safety.
The Governor’s order can be viewed HERE.
To aid businesses and the public, the Governor issued guidance on required protocols via his Report to Open Texas, which can be viewed at the following web address:
https://gov.texas.gov/uploads/files/organization/opentexas/OpenTexas-Report.pdf
Locally, and across the state, residential construction has remained open for operation thanks to the efforts of Dallas Builders Association and the Texas Association of Builders. Builders are expected to continue the COVID-19 safety measures until further notification.
The Association is currently reviewing the order and guidance and will provide updates in the future.