Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued a nearly statewide mask mandate on Thursday as the state contends with a worsening coronavirus outbreak.
“We have the ability to keep businesses open and move our economy forward so that Texans can continue to earn a paycheck, but it requires each of us to do our part to protect one another — and that means wearing a face covering in public spaces,” Abbott said.
Abbott’s order requires that Texans must wear masks in public where social distancing is not possible “in counties with 20 or more positive COVID-19 cases, with few exceptions.” He also banned large gatherings in order to “strengthen Texas’ ability to corral this virus and keep Texans safe.”
Thursday’s order is the latest in a recent spate of efforts to suppress the coronavirus outbreak, which has infected nearly 176,000 people. Last week, Abbott paused the state’s reopening process, restricting businesses and restaurants to outdoor patronage and takeout options only. Just one day prior, Abbott halted elective surgeries in four counties in an effort to free up hospital space for COVID-19 patients.
“If Texans commit to wearing face coverings in public spaces and follow the best health and safety practices, we can both slow the spread of COVID-19 and keep Texas open for business,” he said. “I urge all Texans to wear a face covering in public, not just for their own health, but for the health of their families, friends, and for all our fellow Texans.”
Abbott had previously blocked local officials from enforcing mask mandates with financial penalties. He encouraged Texans to wear masks during a press conference last week but stopped short of making masks compulsory.
There are some exceptions to the new rule. People who are eating, drinking, exercising, voting, or worshiping in churches do not have to wear masks. His order stipulates that people attending protests and demonstrations with more than 10 in a group must wear masks at all times if they cannot maintain a six-foot distance.
First-time violators of the rule will be issued a warning. If violated a second time, the person will receive a $250 fine. The order goes into effect at 12:01 p.m. Friday.
