The City of Austin has issued an order restricting private gatherings, “non-essential” business operations, and travel within its jurisdiction.
Dr. Mark Escott, the head of the Austin-Travis County Public Health Authority, said the decision came after modeling showed hospital capacity could peak within weeks.
Here is a summary of what’s allowed and what’s not under the new order. To read the full order yourself, use the link at the bottom of this post. The order takes effect at midnight.
NOT ALLOWED: “All public and private gatherings of any number of people outside a single household or dwelling unit, except for the limited purposes as expressly permitted by this order.”
NOT ALLOWED: All travel except for “essential activities,” or going to work in an “essential business, government facility, or critical infrastructure,” as defined in the order.
ALLOWED: Outdoor activity, for example, walking, hiking, bicycling, provided that social distancing of at least six feet from other individuals is followed.
ALLOWED: Shopping at or working at a grocery store, supermarket, gas station, liquor stores, pet supply store, and certain other retailers of “essential supplies.”
ALLOWED: Caring for a family member or pet in another household. Travel to care for the elderly, minors, or persons with disabilities.
ALLOWED: Travel by church staff/clergy for the purpose of remote delivery of religious services “or other ministries requiring travel.”
ALLOWED: Travel and work by plumbers, electricians, exterminators, pool cleaners, and other service providers who provide services “that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operations of residences.”
ALLOWED: Delivery and carryout restaurants.
NOT ALLOWED: Eating food at the outdoor seating area of a restaurant.
ALLOWED: Uber, Lyft, and taxis that are serving transportation needs for allowed activities.
ALLOWED: News media operations.
GRAY AREA: Legal services businesses, accounting, and real estate services may remain operational only “when necessary to assist in compliance with legally mandated activities or to further Essential Business, Essential Government functions, or Critical Infrastructure.”
