Austin, Texas -- As entities across the nation wrestle with determining the most effective strategy to slow the spread of COVID-19, Texas Governor Greg Abbott held a press conference Tuesday, March 31, 2020, where he expanded the existing executive order by instructing Texans to stay home unless performing an essential duty. This order is effective midnight April 1 through April 30, 2020. Governor Abbott also stated that Texas schools would remain closed until Monday, May 4, 2020. "We've come too far to falter now," Gov. Abbott remarked.
Texans are permitted to travel to and from jobs that are deemed essential and Gov. Abbott pointed out that the essential-activities protocol also included going to the bank, grocery store, or hardware store, plus outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing.
CISA Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Sectors:
HEALTHCARE / PUBLIC HEALTH
LAW ENFORCEMENT, PUBLIC SAFETY, AND OTHER FIRST RESPONDERS
FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
ENERGY
WATER AND WASTEWATER
TRANSPORTATION AND LOGISTICS
PUBLIC WORKS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SUPPORT SERVICES
COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
OTHER COMMUNITY- OR GOVERNMENT-BASED OPERATIONS AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
CRITICAL MANUFACTURING
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
FINANCIAL SERVICES
CHEMICAL
DEFENSE INDUSTRIAL BASE
COMMERCIAL FACILITIES
RESIDENTIAL/SHELTER FACILITIES AND SERVICES
HYGIENE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
Religious services conducted in churches, congregations, and houses of worship. Other services as approved by the Texas Division of Emergency Management.