Governor Abbott Announces Phase One To Open Texas, Establishes Statewide Minimum Standard Health Protocols
Office of the Governor, Greg Abbott • April 27, 2020
Creates Statewide Contact Tracing Program
Issues Special Guidance For Texans Over 65, Nursing Homes
Governor Greg Abbott today announced the first phase of the State of Texas' ongoing plan to safely and strategically open Texas while minimizing the spread of COVID-19. Under Phase I, certain services and activities are allowed to open with limited occupancy, and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is issuing minimum standard health protocols for all businesses and individuals to follow. The Governor also outlined special guidance for Texans over 65 and detailed a comprehensive mitigation plan for nursing homes in Texas. The Governor also announced a statewide testing and tracing program developed by DSHS that will help public health officials quickly identify and test Texans who contract COVID-19 and mitigate further spread of the virus.
The Governor's announcement is accompanied by Texans Helping Texans: The Governor's Report to Open Texas. This detailed report, available on the strike force website, helps Texans understand phase one by outlining the new protocols, guidance, and recommendations. The report also includes a series of Open Texas Checklists that outline DSHS' minimum standard health protocols for all Texans.
"This strategic approach to opening the state of Texas prioritizes the health and safety of our communities and follows the guidelines laid out by our team of medical experts," said Governor Abbott. "Now more than ever, Texans must remain committed to safe distancing practices that reduce the spread of COVID-19, and we must continue to rely on doctors and data to provide us with the safest strategies to restore Texans' livelihoods. We must also focus on protecting the most vulnerable Texans from exposure to COVID-19. If we remain focused on protecting the lives of our fellow Texans, we can continue to open the Lone Star State."
By way of Executive Order (GA-18), all retail stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and malls are permitted to reopen on Friday, May 1. These services must limit their capacity to 25% of their listed occupancy. Within shopping malls, the food-court dining areas, play areas, and interactive displays and settings must remain closed.
All museums and libraries may open under the same 25% occupancy limitation, but interactive areas of museums must remain closed. State libraries and museums will open by May 1, and local public museums and libraries may reopen only if permitted by the local government. Single-person offices may reopen as well.
Churches and places of worship remain open. Outdoor sports are allowed to resume so long as no more than four participants are playing together at one time. Certain social distancing practices must also be followed. Local government operations, including county and municipal government operations relating to permitting, recordation, and document-filing services, may reopen as determined by the local government.
DSHS has recommended minimum standard health protocols for all individuals, all employers and employees, as well as industry-specific protocols for retailers, retail customers, restaurants, restaurant patrons, movie theaters, movie theater customers, museums and libraries, museum and library visitors, outdoor sports participants, single-person offices, and low COVID-19 counties. These protocols are outlined in the Open Texas Checklists within the Governor's report beginning on page 20.
Essential services such as farmers and ranchers, grocery and drug stores, banks, and gas stations will continue to operate. Public swimming pools, bars, gyms, cosmetology salons, massage establishments, interactive amusement venues, such as bowling alleys and video arcades, and tattoo and piercing studios will remain closed through Phase I. Nursing homes, state supported living centers, assisted living facilities, and long-term care facilities must remain closed to visitors unless to provide critical assistance.
The Governor also established increased occupancy protocols for certain counties with five or fewer laboratory confirmed cases of COVID-19. Those counties may, on an individualized basis, increase occupancy limits to up to 50% for restaurants, retail, shopping malls, museums and libraries, and movie theaters if they meet certain criteria. The county judge must certify and affirm to DSHS that the following standards have been investigated and confirmed to be met:
- The county had five or fewer COVID-19 laboratory confirmed cases on April 30, 2020 or, at a later date, five or fewer active COVID-19 cases as verified by DSHS.
- The county has created a list of testing opportunities in the county or the area.
- The county has been in contact with its designated regional advisory council to ensure the community is prepared for any needed health care transfers.
- The county has provided public notice to the residents of the county, including: Signs and symptoms of COVID-19: Recommended health and safety protocols in line with CDC guidance; Information regarding how residents can get tested in the area; A link to the DSHS website where residents can go to learn about community spread in nearby communities, in order to help county residents understand their risk to exposure if they travel regularly outside of the county.
- The county has contacted each of the following types of facilities located in the county to ensure they are complying with Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines regarding COVID-19: Nursing homes; Assisted living facilities; Industrial, agricultural, or business facilities with a significant number of employees; and City or county jails.
- The county is equipped and prepared to protect vulnerable populations, including nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
- The county has documented procedures to be activated if a resident becomes COVID-19 positive, including procedures to take appropriate measures as necessary in line with the plan to open Texas.
- The county has contacted DSHS in order to create a plan to ensure contact tracing will occur within 48 hours of a positive test reported to DSHS.
Phase I will begin Friday May 1 and continue until at least May 18. The Governor will continue to evaluate next steps for the state.
The Governor's Report to Open Texas also outlines a long-term comprehensive mitigation plan for nursing homes in Texas. Eight recommendations have been developed by HHSC to help mitigate the further spread of COVID-19 and decrease the risk of infection in these facilities. A summary of the recommendations is below, and full recommendations are in the Governor's report beginning on page 9:
- Quantify the extent of infection immediately
- Establish a comprehensive mitigation plan
- Re-evaluate current COVID-19 positive facilities
- Appropriate isolation and placement of COVID-19 patients
- Implement enhanced access controls
- Enhance control of staff access
- Effective notifications
- Continue containment efforts
During the press conference, the Governor also announced a new statewide testing and contact tracing program. Developed and implemented by DSHS, this program will help identify individuals who have contracted COVID-19 and those who may need to quarantine or be tested due to potential exposure. This phased implementation will allow Texans to box in the virus and slow, or even stop, further spread. Phase I of the tracing program has been completed, and Phase II begins today. Phase III begins May 11. More details about the contact tracing program are available in the Governor's Report to Open Texas beginning on page 16.
Governor Abbott today also relaxed certain restrictions related to health care professionals and issued amended requirements related to hospital capacity. Under an Executive Order (GA-19) issued today:
- All licensed health care professionals shall be limited in their practice by, and must comply with, any emergency rules promulgated by their respective licensing agencies dictating minimum standards for safe practice during the COVID-19 disaster.
- Every hospital licensed under Chapter 241 of the Texas Health & Safety Code shall reserve at least 15% of its hospital capacity for treatment of COVID-19 patients, accounting for the range of clinical severity of COVID-19 patients, as determined by HHSC.
Additionally, the Governor issued an Executive Order (GA-20) to eliminate the mandatory 14-day quarantine period for individuals traveling from Louisiana. Under GA-20, the mandated 14-day quarantine for travelers from the following areas remains in place: California; Connecticut; New York; New Jersey; Washington; Atlanta, Georgia; Chicago, Illinois; Detroit, Michigan, and Miami, Florida.
East Texas businesses, schools, nonprofit organizations, and government entities can earn recognition for practical efforts that reduce waste, increase recycling, and support a cleaner, more sustainable region through the ETCOG Green Business Program. The program recognizes organizations that voluntarily adopt environmentally responsible practices in their daily operations. Whether an organization is just beginning to improve its recycling efforts or has established a more comprehensive waste-reduction program, ETCOG provides resources to help participants evaluate their operations and build sustainable practices that are practical and manageable. Turning Everyday Actions Into Meaningful Results Waste reduction and recycling can create real benefits for organizations and the communities they serve. By reducing materials sent to landfills, businesses and other participating organizations may lower disposal costs, conserve landfill capacity, avoid greenhouse-gas emissions, and support markets for recovered materials. The Green Business Program is designed to help organizations take meaningful steps without making the process overwhelming. ETCOG’s Waste Reduction and Recycling Toolkit includes practical guidance and evaluation tools that can help participants identify opportunities for source reduction, reuse, recycling, and organics recovery. The program supports the goals of the ETCOG Regional Municipal Solid Waste Management Plan by encouraging organizations to: Reduce the amount of waste requiring disposal through source reduction, reuse, and recycling Create local markets for recovered materials Develop strategies to recover organics from the waste stream Increase awareness of landfill diversion and sustainable waste-management practices Recognition for East Texas Organizations The Green Business Program is open at no cost to qualifying businesses, governmental entities, schools, and nonprofit organizations located within ETCOG’s 14-county region. Organizations can qualify for one of two recognition levels. Green Business Partner recognition is available to organizations that meet the program’s minimum requirements and earn at least 10 points on the Green Business Program Award Application. Green Business Pioneer recognition is available to organizations that meet the minimum requirements and earn at least 20 points. Green Business Pioneers are also eligible for the annual Green Business of the Year Award, which recognizes outstanding recycling, waste-reduction, and innovative sustainability efforts. Recognition is valid for one year and can help participating organizations demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, strengthen community visibility, and appeal to customers, residents, employees, and partners who value responsible environmental practices. How to Participate Organizations interested in Green Business recognition should first confirm that they meet the program’s eligibility requirements. Applicants must be located within the ETCOG region, earn at least 10 points on the Green Business Program Award Application, maintain recycling or organics collection service or self-haul recyclable or organic materials, and complete the required Waste Evaluation Toolkit. To learn more, access the program packet and toolkits, or begin the application process, visit the ETCOG Green Business Program page. For questions, contact Economic & Community Development Specialist Cammie Keenon at Cammie.Keenon@etcog.org or call ETCOG at 903-218-6400 and ask for the Solid Waste Coordinator.
The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) will host three specialized Sexual Assault and Family Violence Investigator Course (SAFVIC) training opportunities in late November and early December for East Texas telecommunications professionals, peace officers, and prosecutors. The courses will provide practical, trauma-informed instruction to strengthen the regional response to sexual assault, family violence, stalking, human trafficking, and strangulation-related offenses. All participants must pre-register at www.safvic.org . SAFVIC for Telecommunication Professionals November 20, 2026 ETCOG | 3800 Stone Road, Kilgore, Texas 8 TCOLE Hours Texas 911 call-takers and dispatch professionals are often the first point of contact during an emergency. The Sexual Assault and Family Violence Investigator Course for Telecommunication Professionals is designed to help these critical first responders identify and appropriately manage calls involving sexual assault and family violence while supporting victim and officer safety. Topics include: Statistics and history of sexual assault and family violence Dynamics of family violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking Special considerations involving people with disabilities, older adults, military families, immigrant communities, and tribal communities Victim-centered communication and safety planning Best practices for handling sexual assault and family violence calls Applicable state and federal laws Participants who pass the final exam will receive eight hours of TCOLE credit. Three-Day Sexual Assault & Family Violence Investigators Course November 30 – December 2, 2026 East Texas Police Academy | 209 S. Center Street, Longview, TX 75601 24 TCOLE Hours | Course #3264 This comprehensive three-day course is designed for Texas peace officers who investigate sexual assault and family violence offenses. Participants will receive instruction on effective investigative strategies and trauma-informed practices that can improve responses to victims and strengthen case preparation. Topics include: Sexual assault and family violence dynamics Current legal updates and applicable laws Investigative and tactical approaches Trauma-informed care Interviewing and interrogation Protective orders and report writing Stalking investigations Drug-facilitated sexual assault Violence affecting immigrant and tribal communities, military families, people with disabilities, Deaf individuals, and adults later in life Community response systems and victim resources Successful participants will receive 24 hours of TCOLE credit under Course #3264. The course may also be taken in lieu of: Special Investigative Topics — TCOLE #3232 Trauma-Informed Approach to Sexual Assault Investigations — TCOLE #470 and #4070 Texas Investigations & Prosecutions of Strangulation December 4, 2026 East Texas Police Academy | 209 S. Center Street, Longview, TX 75601 8 TCOLE Hours The Texas Investigations & Prosecutions of Strangulation course, known as TxIPS, equips Texas law-enforcement officers and prosecutors to recognize, investigate, and prosecute strangulation-related offenses. Strangulation is among the most lethal forms of domestic and sexual violence. A victim can lose consciousness within seconds, and death can occur within minutes. Because many victims may not show visible external injuries, it is especially important for public-safety professionals to recognize the warning signs and risk factors associated with these incidents. Topics include: Introduction to strangulation and its connection to intimate partner violence, homicide, sexual violence, and human trafficking Lethality and risk indicators associated with strangulation Signs and symptoms, including cases without visible external injuries Texas strangulation laws Proper use of a strangulation supplement Strategies for prosecution of strangulation crimes These courses are part of the statewide SAFVIC initiative, which works to strengthen law enforcement and public safety responses to sexual assault and family violence. By providing specialized training for dispatch professionals, investigators, and prosecutors, ETCOG is helping ensure that East Texas agencies have access to the tools, knowledge, and trauma-informed practices needed to support victims and promote safer communities. To register for any of these training opportunities, visit www.safvic.org .
Connecting Communities to Regional Solutions Through ETCOG 101 Workshop Series
ETCOG leaders recently joined Councils of Governments staff from across Texas for the Texas Association of Regional Councils’ (TARC) biannual staff training. Along with strong learning and collaboration opportunities, we were proud to have our Board Chairman and several staff come away from the event with big wins. The week ended with a proud moment for East Texas as ETCOG Board Chairman and Whitehouse Mayor James Wansley was sworn in as TARC President-Elect for 2026–2027. His new role places an East Texas voice in TARC’s leadership and reflects his longstanding commitment to public service and regional cooperation. That leadership presence continued throughout the training. ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland agreed to continue serving as Chair of TARC’s Community and Economic Development Committee, helping guide conversations about the priorities that shape strong communities and create economic opportunity. ETCOG Director of Operations Wendi Horst also began a new chapter of service as TARC’s Chief Financial Officer. During the training, she presented on TARC finances to the Finance and Personnel Association, the Budget and Bylaws Committee, and the TARC Board of Directors, helping keep the organization focused on responsible financial stewardship. ETCOG Assistant Executive Director Brandy Brannon was appointed Vice-Chair of TARC’s Finance and Personnel Association. Her appointment recognizes the knowledge and leadership she brings to supporting the people and operations behind Texas’ regional councils. The trip also marked the launch of a new effort to strengthen how COGs communicate with their communities. ETCOG Director of Communications Lindsay Vanderbilt helped form TARC’s new Communications Work Group and was appointed as its Chair. The group will bring communications professionals together to exchange ideas, share tools, and improve public outreach. From new appointments to continued service, ETCOG’s participation at TARC demonstrated the value of showing up, sharing expertise, and working alongside peers from around the state. These leadership roles give East Texas a strong voice while creating opportunities to bring new ideas and partnerships home to the communities ETCOG serves.
ETCOG is pleased to announce its new Chairman, Camp County Judge AJ Mason; the new Board and Executive Committee Officers serving for FY 2027; and Executive Committee members beginning a new two-year term. The ETCOG Board of Directors appoints the Executive Committee, which meets monthly and is responsible for establishing the policies, programs, and services on behalf of the Board for our 14-county region. Board Officers Chairman – Camp County Judge AJ Mason 1st Vice-Chairman – Smith County Commissioner Ralph Carraway, Sr. 2nd Vice Chairman – City of Carthage City Commissioner Tate Barber 3rd Vice Chairman – Rains County Commissioner Jeremy Cook Secretary/Treasurer – City of Longview Mayor Kristen Ishihara “Working with elected officials from across East Texas is a privilege I greatly enjoy while serving on the ETCOG Executive Committee,” said Judge Mason. “Due to the efforts of ETCOG leadership and staff, we look forward to a record year in FY 2027. Serving East Texans in communities in all 14 counties is our focus. Senior meal programs, childcare, employers and job seekers, rural transportation, public safety and peace officer training, 911 emergency systems and economic development are only a few of the areas benefiting our East Texas communities due to the efforts of this outstanding organization.” Executive Committee Members Returning for New Terms The following Executive Committee members have been appointed to new two-year terms: Gregg County – Judge Bill Stoudt Gregg County Cities – City of Longview Mayor Kristen Ishihara Panola County – City of Carthage City Commissioner Tate Barber Smith County – Commissioner Ralph Caraway, Sr. Smith County Cities – Whitehouse Mayor James Wansley New Executive Committee Members ETCOG is proud to welcome the following new Executive Committee members for a two-year term: Marion County – City of Jefferson Councilman Charles (Bubba) Haggard Upshur County – Judge-Elect Brandon Dodd (Effective 1/1/2027) "I am grateful for the volunteer service rendered by all of our elected officials and particularly want to thank and congratulate our returning Chairman, Judge AJ Mason, and the rest of our ETCOG Officers and Board members for their selfless dedication and service to our region," said ETCOG's Executive Director, David Cleveland. These new officers and board member terms were approved at our September 24th Board of Directors meeting, where the FY 2027 Budget and Planning Guide totaling $90.6 M was also approved. The budget is the largest in agency history and represents a balanced budget, with revenue sources matching projected expenditures for all funds. To learn more about the FY 2027 budget and program goals, visit www.etcog.org/financials .
Eligible communities must submit applications by November 19, 2026.
110th Semi-Annual Board of Directors Meeting to be Held September 24th
Public comments will be accepted through October 11, 2026.
This summer, ETCOG Director of Aging Programs Adrian Cornejo welcomed an extraordinary experience into his home through his volunteer work with Creating Friendships for Peace (CFP). For one month, Adrian hosted two students from Cyprus, Michael and Derin, who came to East Texas through the CFP program. During their stay, the students shared a room in Adrian’s home, experienced daily life in the region, shadowed Adrian at ETCOG, and attended an ETCOG Executive Committee meeting. Creating Friendships for Peace brings young people from communities affected by longstanding divisions together for cultural exchange, dialogue, and relationship-building. Cyprus has been divided for decades between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, with a history of conflict and mistrust that can shape how young people see those from the other side of the island. Adrian said the experience gave him a deeply personal view of how division can affect young people and how meaningful it can be when they have the opportunity to connect outside of those divisions. “What I witnessed through these young men was difficult to process,” Adrian said. “Each of their societies has, in different ways, instilled distrust, division, and even hatred toward people on the ‘other side.’ Perhaps the most heartbreaking part is hearing that this begins when they are children.” Through his involvement with CFP, Adrian also hosted two young men from Israel for a few days, one Jewish Israeli and one Arab Israeli, who similarly came from communities shaped by complex social and political divisions. “This is not a political story,” Adrian said. “It is a personal reflection on what has been one of the most emotional and humbling experiences of my life. Hearing the students’ experiences made me realize just how much we take for granted here in the United States,” he said. “We have the freedom to think, to question, and to decide for ourselves what we believe and how we treat others.” For Michael and Derin, their time in East Texas offered an opportunity to see a different community, to witness regional collaboration in action as our elected officials voted on ETCOG business, and to build friendships beyond the boundaries and assumptions they may encounter at home. “I think words are too little to describe the last four weeks,” said Michael. “This month we became a family. I was talking with Derin, and I told him it feels like we are packing to go to vacation, not home.” “I want to thank Mr. Adrian for hosting us and being part of our destiny in this trip,” said Darin. “You are very hard working and care about us. I am very grateful for you taking us to San Antonio trip, for your work, and giving us opportunities to meet wonderful people…I wish to mature up and become a person like you one day who helps everyone like you do.” Adrian said the friendships formed through CFP demonstrate that meaningful change often starts on a personal level. “Peace doesn’t begin with governments or political agreements,” Adrian said. “Sometimes, it begins with a conversation, a friendship, and the willingness to see another person as a human being rather than as a representative of ‘the other side.’” He added that he is grateful for the friendships and perspectives the students brought into his life. “I will carry their stories, their friendship, and what I learned from them with me for a very long time,” Adrian said. ETCOG is proud to recognize Adrian’s commitment to service and his willingness to share both his home and workplace with students participating in this important exchange for peace.