Gov. Greg Abbott took his most drastic action yet to respond to the spike of COVID-19 cases in Texas, shutting bars back down and scaling back restaurant capacity to 50%.
He also shut down river-rafting trips and banned outdoor gatherings of over 100 people unless local officials approve.
“At this time, it is clear that the rise in cases is largely driven by certain types of activities, including Texans congregating in bars,” Abbott said in a news release. “The actions in this executive order are essential to our mission to swiftly contain this virus and protect public health.”
Bars most close at noon Friday, and the reduction in restaurant capacity takes effect Monday.Before Abbott’s announcement Friday, bars were able to operate at 50% capacity and restaurants at 75% capacity.
