DENTON, TX, Mar. 3, 2021 – On March 2, Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order (GA-34) that allows all businesses within the state of Texas to operate at 100% capacity and rescinds the statewide face covering mandate. The Governor’s order (attached) takes effect on Wednesday, March 10, 2021.
Under the Eleventh Order of Council adopted in late 2020, businesses are required to adopt a health and safety policy that incorporates face coverings and social distancing requirements under a previous gubernatorial executive order, GA-29. Due to the rescinding of GA-29 and a specific prohibition on local orders conflicting with GA-34, the health and safety policy provisions within the Eleventh Order of Council will no longer be in effect as of Wednesday, March 10. As of that day, businesses will not be required by the City of Denton to adopt a health and safety policy and post such policy at its entrances.
“Due to provisions within the Governor’s order, City officials cannot impose COVID-19 restrictions that are inconsistent with GA-34,” said Mayor Gerard Hudspeth. “However, we strongly encourage and continue to ask our residents and businesses to practice those same habits that have helped to reduce the spread of COVID-19 – including to socially distance where you can and use face coverings when you can’t social distance. We’re all in this together and need to look out for each other.”
GA-34 also rescinds the Governor’s requirement that outdoor gatherings of 10 or more persons e approved by the county judge or the mayor.
City of Denton facilities and services will continue current COVID-19 precautions. These include certain facilities remaining open by appointment only, requiring face coverings for employees and visitors entering City facilities, and limited programs and services with COVID-19 precautions.
The City’s declaration of disaster and Eleventh Order of Council are set to expire on March 31, 2021. City staff anticipate discussion of GA-34 and the City’s COVID-19 response at a future City Council meeting.
