Restaurant in Austin, Texas. Photo: Dave Creaney/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) issued an executive order Friday for all bars to close by 12 p.m. today and that restaurants must decrease their capacity from 75% to 50% due to a surge in coronavirus cases.
Why it matters: Abbott's orders could signal a beginning of second wave re-closures by states.
- Young people in Texas account for the majority of new Texas cases, linked to certain types of activities such as gathering in bars, the governor said.
- Local approval of outdoor gatherings over 100 people is also required.
What Abbott is saying:
- "At this time, it is clear that the rise in cases is largely driven by certain types of activities, including Texans congregating in bars. The actions in this executive order are essential to our mission to swiftly contain this virus and enhance public health. We want this to be as limited in duration as possible."
- "However, we can only slow the spread if everyone in Texas does their part. Every Texan has a responsibility to themselves and their loved ones to wear a mask, wash their hands, stay six feet apart from others in public, and stay home if they can."
Go deeper: The coronavirus surge is real, and it's everywhere