The recent record-breaking numbers of new COVID-19 cases and deaths prompted Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to announce July 2 that he has signed an order requiring most Texans to wear a face-covering.
This order has been a long-awaited one and the issue has become more of a political battle than the health precaution that it is. There has been no shortage of opinions on the matter, along with bullying and harassment, often violent, between those who disagree.
The law will be enforced by local law enforcement. The first violation will result in a warning. Subsequent violations could cost up to $250 each. The governor said that no arrests will be made.
Abbott cited the large positive case increase as the reason for his change of heart about a mask requirement. He said that using face coverings in public is one of the most effective ways to slow the spread of the virus and asked all Texans to do their part to help keep folks well and to help keep the state’s economy going.
“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,” Abbott said.
The requirement goes into effect Friday at noon in Texas counties with 20 or more COVID-19 cases. A face covering is not required if you are eating, drinking, exercising, worshipping or voting. Children 10 or younger are exempt. Those with medical conditions that prevent them from wearing face coverings are also exempt. Otherwise, individuals in indoor public spaces as well as public outdoor spaces when appropriate social distancing cannot be practiced, are included.
The order also prohibits outdoor gatherings of more than 10 people without prior approval of the local mayor or county judge.
The reported number of Garland’s COVID-19 cases Thursday, July 2, is 2,122, which is a two-day increase of 184. The number of active cases is 1,087. The number of recovered patients is 1,009. There have been 26 deaths.
Dallas County Health and Human Services has reported 22,590 cases with 387 deaths since March. Dr. Philip Huang, DCHHS director, said today that the number of new cases tomorrow will exceed 1,000.