On March 19, 2020, Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra signed a 2nd Order related to COVID-19 that in ways mirrors one signed earlier in the day by Governor Greg Abbott, with some differences. These orders supersede previous ones.
Governor Abbott’s Order begins at 11:59 PM on March 20, 2020 and ends at 11:59 PM on April 3, 2020, subject to extension, as does the County’s. The Governor’s Order limits social gatherings to no more than 10 people, and closes bars, gyms, restaurants (to-go and delivery still allowed), and schools statewide. It also bans visits to nursing and retirement homes unless there is a critical need. Read the entire Order from the Governor.
The Judge’s Order includes closing daycare centers throughout the county for the time period and encourages social distancing for events that are exempted from the gathering requirement. Read the entire Hays County Order here.
“The County’s new COVID-19 Order was a collaborative effort with mayors of cities within Hays County,” Judge Becerra, said. “We met via conference call to discuss and gathered input on these serious changes to our way of life. We came to agreement on what would best serve all our residents.”