As Governor Abbott’s plans for reopening Texas’ economy inch closer to announcement, some localities are beginning to initiate the process themselves.
Earlier this week, Colleyville announced significant rollbacks of its closures — some of which may or may not be in accordance with state policy, the governor indicated in a Tuesday press conference.
But last Friday, Montgomery County took a different step, terminating its stay-at-home order that had been in place since March 27. The new order specifically states that all provisions of Abbott’s March 31 executive order — set to expire on April 30 — are still to be followed.
However, the more stringent provisions of the county’s order will be rescinded. Beginning on April 27, the new directive allows for retail stores to open for to-go and curbside pickup commerce. Nursing homes, however, must maintain adherence to current regulations.
Additionally, the 11:59 P.M. to 6:00 A.M. curfew has been lifted.
“In order to facilitate our business’ capabilities to safely return to normal, I have terminated my ‘Stay at Home, Stop the Spread’ order, effective immediately,” Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough stated.
He added, “This will also give our local businesses time to prepare for the reopening that will soon be announced by the governor.”
Proper social distancing protocols and regulations regarding “essential” and “non-essential” businesses set by the state are still in effect.
Montgomery County, which sits on the north side of Houston, currently has 286 active COVID-19 cases and seven total deaths. A vast majority of its total cases have afflicted those in age groups between ages 30 and 69. Six of the seven deaths have been people over the age of 80.
124 people in Montgomery County have recovered from the virus.
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Brad Johnson
Brad Johnson is an Ohio native who graduated from the University of Cincinnati in 2017. He is an avid sports fan who most enjoys watching his favorite teams continue their title drought throughout his cognizant lifetime. In his free time, you may find Brad watching and quoting Monty Python productions.