(Austin) — Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s mandatory order requiring individuals to wear face mask for all counties in the state of Texas that currently have more than 20 cases of COVID-19 continues today as people return to work and other daily priorities.
The executive order, enforced just prior to the Fourth of July weekend, requires all Texans to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth in public spaces.
The Governor on Thursday issued the proclamation also giving mayors and county judges the ability to impose restrictions on some outdoor gatherings of over 10 people, and making it mandatory that, with certain exceptions, people cannot be in groups larger than 10 and must maintain six feet of social distancing from others.
“Wearing a face covering in public is proven to be one of the most effective ways we have to slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Governor Abbott. “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. Likewise, large gatherings are a clear contributor to the rise in COVID-19 cases. Restricting the size of groups gatherings will strengthen Texas’ ability to corral this virus and keep Texans safe. We all have a responsibility to slow the spread of COVID-19 and keep our communities safe. 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. 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 says this mandatory requirement is not intended to be punitive.
“Instead, we just need everyone to do their part to help slow the spread. That’s why the first violation of the standard is just a warning. Subsequent violations are subject to a penalty not to exceed $250. But let me be clear, no one can ever be put in jail for violating this safe practice. Local law enforcement has the authority to enforce this safety standard just like they do when enforcing seatbelt standards,” said Abbott.
Abbott previously resisted calls for such an order and at one point banned local governments from requiring masks. Abbott also encouraged people to stay at home if possible but explained that this is not a “stay-at-home” order.
