AUSTIN, Texas — Governor Abbott spoke about how the State of Texas plans to move forward and begin to reopen the economy during a press conference on Monday.
During the conference, Abbott said that infection rates have been on the decline for the past 17 days, but said we can not forget the lives that have been lost.
Abbott said that these deaths are a tragedy, but there have been far fewer deaths in Texas than in other parts of the U.S.
Texas also has the third most recovered cases in the U.S. It was also stated that the number of recovered cases will soon exceed the number of active cases in the state.
"The lives saved are priceless, but the price is steep," Abbott said.
Abbott said Texas united as one to help slow the spread of COVID-19, but we must continue to be united as one to reopen the economy.
He said that the state has made many efforts to slow the spread of the virus, including the deployment of more than 3000 National Guard to aid in testing sites across the state. Almost 1000 National Guard have also been deployed to prepare and serve meals at food banks.
Abbott spoke about the record-breaking unemployment claims that have been made during the pandemic. 1.9 million claims have been filed and 1.6 million have been processed so far. Also, more than $6 billion have been paid out in benefits across the state.
The executive order to stay home was set to expire on April 30. Abbott said they will let it expire as scheduled. He said it is time to set standards to open Texas, with safety in mind.
During the press conference, it was stated that all businesses in Texas cannot open at once. This could lead to more cases, more deaths, and another outbreak.
So this doesn't happen, Phase one is set to begin May 1. And if cases are still contained, Phase two will begin two weeks later, with proper data given and considered, on May 18.
Phase one has the main priority of protecting the most vulnerable populations, such as those older than 65 and those with other illnesses. It emphasizes that these populations stay home if at all possible.
This first phase includes businesses like retail stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and malls opening, but limits the occupancy to no more than 25%. If COVID-19 remains contained, that number will jump to 50% on May 18 during Phase two.
That being said, if owners of these businesses feel unsafe or would rather not open at this time, there is no requirement to do so.
Museums and libraries also have the same options now, but with limitations when it comes to anything hands-on. Those activities must remain closed.
Anything that was kept open during the stay at open order, such as places of worship, can begin expanding their occupancy.
Abbott said that outdoor sports are okay as long as there are four or fewer players. This includes sports such as tennis and golf.
Doctors, nurses, dentists and all licensed healthcare workers are now allowed to return to work, with the restriction of 50% occupancy in place.
Essential services can continue to operate as usual.
Abbot also spoke about more rural counties in the state to possibly have fewer restrictions than others. To protect these more rural counties, different standards will apply to those that have five or fewer cases. Those counties must still comply with safety standards, but business can raise their occupancy from 25% to 50% during Phase one.
Abbot said he hopes other businesses such as salons, gyms, and bars will be able to open their doors no later than mid-May.
Abbott said there are four main things that will help open Texas once again: Commitment to continuing safe practices, reliance on doctors and data, focus on protecting the most vulnerable, and the reminder the entrepreneurs are who drive the economy.
"We are Texans, we got this," Abbott said.
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