An executive order issued by the Texas governor on Wednesday allowed restaurants to operate at 50% capacity, effective immediately, with a further capacity increase scheduled for June 12.
Since May 1 restaurants have only been allowed to operate dine-in areas at 25% of listed occupancy as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19. That came after a month and half of total closure under public health orders issued under the Texas Disaster Act of 1975.
The order from the Texas governor is what he calls the start of “Phase III” reopening of the Texas economy.
The order covers not only restaurants but all other businesses currently operating at 25% capacity, allowing them to expand their occupancy to 50%.
“Business that previously have been able to operate at 100% capacity may continue to do so, and most outdoor areas are not subject to capacity limits,” Abbott’s office explained in a statement announcing the change. “All businesses and customers should continue to follow minimum standard health protocols laid out by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).”
Abbott asked Texans to “remain vigilant” to mitigate the spread of the virus, saying this would help get more Texans back to work and their daily activities.
Effective June 3:
Bars and similar establishments may increase their capacity to 50% as long as patrons are seated.
Amusement parks and carnivals in counties with less than 1,000 confirmed positive cases may open at 50% capacity.
Restaurants may expand their maximum table size from 6 to 10 persons.
Effective June 12:
Restaurants may expand their occupancy levels to 75%.
Counties with 10 or less active COVID-19 cases may expand their occupancy limits to 75%. Counties that fit this category but have not previously filed an attestation with DSHS will need to do so.
Effective June 19:
Amusement parks and carnivals in counties with more than 1,000 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 may open at 50% capacity.
Additional Openings:
Special provisions have been made for outdoor gatherings, such as Fourth of July celebrations.
Further Protocols:
- Individuals are encouraged to wear appropriate face coverings.
- People should not be in groups greater than ten when possible.
- People over the age of 65 are encouraged to stay at home as much as possible.
- People are still asked to avoid nursing homes, state supported living centers, assisted living facilities, or long-term care facilities.
