Gov. Abbott releases two new orders to combat COVID-19
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott passes new orders to combat coronavirus spread
In a news conference,Governor Abbott encouraged Texans to stay home and follow the executive order he signed last Friday. At this time, the governor says he does not think a stay-at-home order is necessary for Texas in response to the coronavirus
AUSTIN, Texas - Texas Governor Greg Abbott provided an update on the state's efforts to combat the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak.
In a televised press conference, Governor Abbott announced two new executive orders that are aimed to help the Texas healthcare infrastructure battle the growing number of coronavirus cases.
The first order will postpone any medically unnecessary procedures.
The second order will suspend regulations to free up more hospital beds for coronavirus patients.
The latest executives orders join a long list of legislation changes that Governor Abbott has made in order to help fight the spread of coronavirus and to help Texans who are facing finical burdens as businesses across the state shut down.
- Abbott declaration closes Texas schools until April 3
- Abbott postpones runoff election in response to COVID-19
- Gov. Abbott allowing event permit refunds for businesses affected by coronavirus
- Abbott waives regulations to support pharmacy operations amid COVID-19 outbreak
- U.S. SBA approves emergency designation for Texas businesses, loans available
RELATED: CoronavirusNOW.com, FOX launches national hub for COVID-19 news and updates
Governor Abbott was joined by the Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner John Hellerstedt and the Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd.
Governor Abbott also issued a public health disaster that went into effect on Friday, March 20. The Executive Order brought the entire state of Texas in line with the CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
"This Executive Order is not a Shelter in Place Order it does not prohibit people from doing things like going to the grocery store, parks or banks, all critical infrastructure will remain open, and operational, domestic travel will be unrestricted,” said Governor Abbott.
Governor Abbott said the statewide orders are to make sure Texas is following guidance provided by the federal government. The governor said it is not an order for Texans to shelter in place and does not restrict domestic travel.
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