Governor Abbott Issues Executive Order To Expand Openings Of Certain Businesses and Activities
Office of the Texas Governor, Greg Abbott • May 5, 2020
WHEREAS, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, issued a disaster proclamation on March 13, 2020, certifying under Section 418.014 of the Texas Government Code that the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) poses an imminent threat of disaster for all counties in the State of Texas; and
WHEREAS, on April 12, 2020, I issued a proclamation renewing the disaster declaration for all counties in Texas; and
WHEREAS, the Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Dr. John Hellerstedt, has determined that COVID-19 represents a public health disaster within the meaning of Chapter 81 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, and renewed that determination on April 17, 2020; and
WHEREAS, I have issued executive orders and suspensions of Texas laws in response to COVID-19, aimed at protecting the health and safety of Texans and ensuring an effective response to this disaster; and
WHEREAS, I issued Executive Order GA-08 on March 19, 2020, mandating certain obligations for Texans in accordance with the President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America, as promulgated by President Donald J. Trump and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on March 16, 2020, which called upon Americans to take actions to slow the spread of COVID-19 for 15 days; and
WHEREAS, I issued Executive Order GA-14 on March 31, 2020, based on the President’s announcement that the restrictive Guidelines should extend through April 30, 2020, in light of advice from Dr. Anthony Fauci and Dr. Deborah Birx, and also based on guidance by DSHS Commissioner Dr. Hellerstedt and Dr. Birx that the spread of COVID-19 can be reduced by minimizing social gatherings; and
WHEREAS, Executive Order GA-14 superseded Executive Order GA-08 and expanded the social-distancing restrictions and other obligations for Texans, aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19 and protecting public health and safety; and
WHEREAS, after more than two weeks of having in effect the heightened restrictions like those required by Executive Order GA-14, which had saved lives, it was clear that the disease still presented a serious threat across Texas that could persist in certain areas, but also that COVID-19 had wrought havoc on many Texas businesses and workers affected by the restrictions that were necessary to protect human life; and
WHEREAS, on April 17, 2020, I therefore issued Executive Order GA-17, creating the Governor’s Strike Force to Open Texas to study and make recommendations on safely and strategically restarting and revitalizing all aspects of the Lone Star State—work, school, entertainment, and culture; and
WHEREAS, also on April 17, 2020, I issued Executive Order GA-16 to generally continue through April 30, 2020, the same social-distancing restrictions and other obligations for Texans according to federal guidelines, but also to offer a safe, strategic first step to Open Texas, including permitting retail pick-up and delivery services; and
WHEREAS, I subsequently issued Executive Order GA-18 on April 27, 2020, to expand the services that are reopened in Texas, including allowing in-store retail and dine-in restaurant services at establishments operating within specific capacity limits; and
WHEREAS, as normal business operations resume, everyone must act safely, and to that end Executive Order GA-18 and this executive order provide that all persons should follow the health protocols recommended by DSHS, which whenever achieved will mean compliance with the minimum standards for safely reopening, but which should not be used to fault those who act in good faith but can only substantially comply with the standards in light of scarce resources and other extenuating COVID-19 circumstances; and
WHEREAS, Texas must continue to protect lives while restoring livelihoods, both of which can be achieved with the expert advice of medical professionals and business leaders; and
WHEREAS, the “governor is responsible for meeting … the dangers to the state and people presented by disasters” under Section 418.011 of the Texas Government Code, and the legislature has given the governor broad authority to fulfill that responsibility; and
WHEREAS, under Section 418.012, the “governor may issue executive orders … hav[ing] the force and effect of law;” and
WHEREAS, under Section 418.016(a), the “governor may suspend the provisions of any regulatory statute prescribing the procedures for conduct of state business … if strict compliance with the provisions … would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay necessary action in coping with a disaster;” and
WHEREAS, under Section 418.017(a), the “governor may use all available resources of state government and of political subdivisions that are reasonably necessary to cope with a disaster;” and
WHEREAS, under Section 418.018(c), the “governor may control ingress and egress to and from a disaster area and the movement of persons and the occupancy of premises in the area;” and
WHEREAS, under Section 418.173, failure to comply with any executive order issued during the COVID-19 disaster is an offense punishable by a fine not to exceed $1,000, confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days, or both fine and confinement.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the State of Texas, do hereby order the following on a statewide basis effective immediately, and continuing through May 19, 2020, subject to extension based on the status of COVID-19 in Texas and the recommendations of the Governor’s Strike Force to Open Texas, the White House Coronavirus Task Force, and the CDC:
In accordance with guidance from DSHS Commissioner Dr. Hellerstedt, and to achieve the goals established by the President to reduce the spread of COVID-19, every person in Texas shall, except where necessary to provide or obtain essential services or reopened services, minimize social gatherings and minimize in-person contact with people who are not in the same household. People over the age of 65, however, are strongly encouraged to stay at home as much as possible; to maintain appropriate distance from any member of the household who has been out of the residence in the previous 14 days; and, if leaving the home, to implement social distancing and to practice good hygiene, environmental cleanliness, and sanitation.
“Essential services” shall consist of everything listed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in its Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce, Version 3.0 or any subsequent version, plus religious services conducted in churches, congregations, and houses of worship. Other essential services may be added to this list with the approval of the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM). TDEM shall maintain an online list of essential services, as specified in this executive order and any approved additions. Requests for additions should be directed to TDEM at EssentialServices@tdem.texas.gov
or by visiting the TDEM website at www.tdem.texas.gov/essentialservices.
“Reopened services” shall consist of the following to the extent they are not already “essential services:”
- Retail services that may be provided through pick-up, delivery by mail, or delivery to the customer’s doorstep.
- In-store retail services, for retail establishments that operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of the retail establishment.
- Dine-in restaurant services, for restaurants that operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of the restaurant; provided, however, that
- this applies only to restaurants that have less than 51 percent of their gross receipts from the sale of alcoholic beverages;
- the occupancy limits do not apply to customers seated in outdoor areas of the restaurant; and
- valet services are prohibited except for vehicles with placards or plates for disabled parking.
- Movie theaters that operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of any individual theater for any screening.
- Shopping malls that operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of the shopping mall; provided, however, that within shopping malls, the food-court dining areas, play areas, and interactive displays and settings must remain closed.
- Museums and libraries that operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy; provided, however, that
- local public museums and local public libraries may so operate only if permitted by the local government, and
- any components of museums or libraries that have interactive functions or exhibits, including child play areas, must remain closed.
- Services provided by an individual working alone in an office, effective until 12:01 a.m. on Monday, May 18, 2020, when this single-person office provision is superseded by the expanded office-based services provision set forth below.
- Golf course operations.
- Local government operations, including county and municipal governmental operations relating to permitting, recordation, and document-filing services, as determined by the local government.
- Wedding venues and the services required to conduct weddings; provided, however, that for weddings held indoors other than at a church, congregation, or house of worship, the facility may operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of the facility.
- Wedding reception services, for facilities that operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of the facility; provided, however, that the occupancy limits do not apply to the outdoor areas of a wedding reception or to outdoor wedding receptions.
- Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2020:
- Cosmetology salons, hair salons, barber shops, nail salons/shops, and other establishments where licensed cosmetologists or barbers practice their trade; provided, however, that all such salons, shops, and establishments must ensure at least six feet of social distancing between operating work stations.
- Tanning salons; provided, however, that all such salons must ensure at least six feet of social distancing between operating work stations.
- Swimming pools; provided, however, that (i) indoor swimming pools may operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of the pool facility; (ii) outdoor swimming pools may operate at up to 25 percent of normal operating limits as determined by the pool operator; and (iii) local public swimming pools may so operate only if permitted by the local government.
- Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, May 18, 2020:
- Services provided by office workers in offices that operate at up to the greater of (i) five individuals, or (ii) 25 percent of the total office workforce; provided, however, that the individuals maintain appropriate social distancing.
- Manufacturing services, for facilities that operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of the facility.
- Gyms and exercise facilities and classes that operate at up to 25 percent of the total listed occupancy of the gym or exercise facility; provided, however, that locker rooms and shower facilities must remain closed, but restrooms may open.
- For Texas counties that have filed with DSHS, and are in compliance with, the requisite attestation form promulgated by DSHS regarding five or fewer cases of COVID-19, those in-store retail services, dine-in restaurant services, movie theaters, shopping malls, museums and libraries, indoor wedding venues, wedding reception services, swimming pools, services provided by office workers in offices of more than five individuals, manufacturing services, and gyms and exercise facilities and classes, as otherwise defined and limited above, may operate at up to 50 percent (as opposed to 25 percent).
- Such additional services as may be enumerated by future executive orders or proclamations by the governor.
The conditions and limitations set forth above for reopened services shall not apply to essential services. The total listed occupancy limits described above refer to the maximum occupant load set by local or state law, but for purposes of this executive order, staff members are not included in determining operating levels except for non-essential manufacturing service providers and services provided by office workers. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the governor may by proclamation identify any county or counties in which reopened services are thereafter prohibited, in the governor’s sole discretion, based on the governor’s determination in consultation with medical professionals that only essential services should be permitted in the county, including based on factors such as an increase in the transmission of COVID-19 or in the amount of COVID-19-related hospitalizations or fatalities.
In providing or obtaining essential services or reopened services, all persons (including individuals, businesses and other organizations, and any other legal entity) should use good-faith efforts and available resources to follow the minimum standard health protocols recommended by DSHS, found at www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus. All persons should also follow, to the extent not inconsistent with the DSHS minimum standards, the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, as well as other CDC recommendations. Individuals are encouraged to wear appropriate face coverings, but no jurisdiction can impose a civil or criminal penalty for failure to wear a face covering. Nothing in this executive order or the DSHS minimum standards precludes requiring a customer wishing to obtain services to follow additional hygiene measures.
Religious services should be conducted in accordance with the joint guidance issued and updated by the attorney general and governor.
People shall avoid visiting bars, massage establishments, tattoo studios, piercing studios, sexually oriented businesses, or interactive amusement venues such as bowling alleys, video arcades, amusement parks, water parks, or splash pads, unless these enumerated establishments or venues are specifically added as a reopened service by proclamation or future executive order of the governor. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the governor may by proclamation add to this list of establishments or venues that people shall avoid visiting. To the extent any of the establishments or venues that people shall avoid visiting also offer reopened services permitted above, such as restaurant services, these establishments or venues can offer only the reopened services and may not offer any other services. The use of drive-thru, pickup, or delivery options for food and drinks remains allowed and highly encouraged throughout the limited duration of this executive order.
This executive order does not prohibit people from accessing essential or reopened services or engaging in essential daily activities, such as going to the grocery store or gas station; providing or obtaining other essential or reopened services; visiting swimming pools, parks, beaches, rivers, or lakes; hunting or fishing; or engaging in physical activity like jogging, bicycling, or other outdoor sports, so long as the necessary precautions are maintained to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 and to minimize in-person contact with people who are not in the same household.
In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, people shall not visit nursing homes, state supported living centers, assisted living facilities, or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance as determined through guidance from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Nursing homes, state supported living centers, assisted living facilities, and long-term care facilities should follow infection control policies and practices set forth by the HHSC, including minimizing the movement of staff between facilities whenever possible.
In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, schools shall remain temporarily closed to in-person classroom attendance by students and shall not recommence before the end of the 2019-2020 school year, except that a student (accompanied by an adult if needed) may, as allowed by the school consistent with the minimum standard health protocols found in guidance issued by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), visit his or her school campus (a) for limited non-instructional administrative tasks such as cleaning out lockers, collecting personal belongings, and returning school items like band instruments and books; or (b) for graduating seniors, to complete post-secondary requirements that cannot be accomplished absent access to the school facility and its resources, excluding any activity or assessment which can be done virtually. Public education teachers and staff are encouraged to continue to work remotely from home if possible, but may return to schools to conduct remote video instruction, as well as perform administrative duties, under the minimum standard health protocols found in guidance issued by the TEA. Private schools and institutions of higher education should establish similar standards to allow teachers and staff to return to schools to conduct remote video instruction and perform administrative duties when it is not possible to do so remotely from home. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, schools may conduct graduation ceremonies consistent with the minimum standard health protocols found in guidance issued by the TEA. Nothing in this executive order, the DSHS minimum standards, or the joint guidance issued and updated by the attorney general and governor precludes churches, congregations, and houses of worship from using school campuses for their religious services or other allowed services.
This executive order shall supersede any conflicting order issued by local officials in response to the COVID-19 disaster, but only to the extent that such a local order restricts essential services or reopened services allowed by this executive order, allows gatherings prohibited by this executive order, or expands the list of essential services or the list or scope of reopened services as set forth in this executive order. I hereby suspend Sections 418.1015(b) and 418.108 of the Texas Government Code, Chapter 81, Subchapter E of the Texas Health and Safety Code, and any other relevant statutes, to the extent necessary to ensure that local officials do not impose restrictions in response to the COVID-19 disaster that are inconsistent with this executive order, provided that local officials may enforce this executive order as well as local restrictions that are consistent with this executive order.
This executive order supersedes Executive Order GA-18, but does not supersede Executive Orders GA-10, GA-13, GA-17, GA-19, or GA-20. This executive order shall remain in effect and in full force until 11:59 p.m. on May 19, 2020, unless it is modified, amended, rescinded, or superseded by the governor.
Given under my hand this the 5th day of May, 2020.
Governor Greg Abbott
Everyone deserves equal access to housing opportunities. During Fair Housing Month, ETCOG joins the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs in raising awareness about housing rights and protections under the Federal Housing Act and the Texas Fair Housing Act. These laws ensure that individuals can rent an apartment, buy a home, or obtain a mortgage free from discrimination based on: Race Religion National Origin Color Familial Status Disability Sex What to Do If You Experience Housing Discrimination If you believe you have been discriminated against, you have one year from the date of the incident to file a complaint with the Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division. 📞 Call: 888-452-4778 🌐 Visit: tdhca.state.tx.us/fair-housing For concerns related to TDHCA-monitored properties, you can also submit a complaint: 📞 Call: 800-525-0657 🌐 Visit: tdhca.state.tx.us/complaint.htm By knowing your rights and taking action against housing discrimination, we can work together to ensure fair and equal housing opportunities for all Texans!
The East Texas Area Agency on Aging (ETAAA), a program of the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG), is inviting the public to review and comment on our 2027 to 2029 Area Plan. ETAAA serves as the Area Agency on Aging for Planning and Service Area 4, a fourteen-county region in East Texas. The Area Plan outlines our strategy to strengthen the Aging Services Network and address the needs of people age 60 and older, family caregivers, and individuals with disabilities. It also guides how we plan, coordinate, and oversee services supported by the Older Americans Act and other state and local initiatives. Our mission is to serve as the region’s leader in advocating for and delivering services that enable older adults to live independently, with dignity and purpose, in their homes and communities. Our vision, “Age Well, Live Well, ” reflects a person-centered approach focused on better choices, improved health, and access to nutritious food. We call it “Serving One Senior at a Time.” The 2027–2029 Area Plan is guided by a needs assessment incorporating data, service trends, and stakeholder input. Key priority needs include access to home- and community-based services, caregiver support, transportation, nutrition and food security, social isolation, healthcare access and chronic disease management, and improved service coordination and system navigation. How to share your input Public comments will be accepted through April 26, 2026 . Submit comments by mail or email: Mail: Area Agency on Aging, 3800 Stone Road, Kilgore, TX 75662 Email: Colleen.Halliburton@etcog.org
Top: Debbie Bryan, Judge AJ Mason, Laura Hill, Sandra Kooker, Dr. Robert Haberle, Officer Brady Gould Bottom: Brookshire Grocery Company representatives Rachel Gee, Chris Jennings, and Mark Lawrence, and Officer Rachel Duraso with ETCOG's Director of Public Safety, Stephanie Heffner At its 109th Semi-Annual Board of Directors Meeting on Thursday, March 19, 2026, the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) presented eight regional awards recognizing individuals and organizations whose work strengthens communities across ETCOG’s 14-county region. “In East Texas, the people who contribute the most are often the ones who don’t ask to be noticed…first responders who run toward danger, volunteers who keep showing up, and leaders who build cooperation across city and county lines. During our regional awards ceremony, it was our honor to confer eight awards this year in recognition of the extraordinary dedication and leadership of those making a real difference in the lives of the people they serve,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. With approximately 100 special guests, elected officials, legislative representatives, and staff in attendance, ETCOG’s board chairman, Whitehouse Mayor James Wansley, led the meeting held at the Whitehouse City Center. Awardees and a summary of their achievements are as follows: REGIONAL FIRST RESPONDER OF THE YEAR (Two Recipients) This award recognizes first responders who have rendered extraordinary service, putting their lives on the line for our safety while performing their duties as peace officers, firemen, EMS and dispatchers, DPS officers, and troopers. Officer Brady Gould, Whitehouse Police Department On the morning of January 29, 2026, Officer Gould responded to a residential structure fire in Whitehouse and arrived to find the home already engulfed. Neighbors reported an elderly woman was still inside. After encountering heavy smoke at one entry point, Officer Gould moved to another door, entered the home, and crawled beneath smoke that had dropped close to the floor, without protective equipment, to locate the resident. He guided her through the smoke-filled home and safely out. Fire officials later indicated the woman likely would have lost consciousness within minutes if help had not arrived. ETCOG recognized Officer Gould for decisive, selfless action under life-threatening conditions. Officer Rachel Duraso, Longview Police Department On September 1, 2025 (Labor Day), while off duty with her family at Hugh Camp Memorial Park in Liberty City, Officer Duraso heard gunshots and recognized an immediate threat nearby. Without her issued police equipment, she moved her children to safety and ran toward the danger, confronting and disarming an armed suspect. She then provided first aid to victims and assisted until additional responders arrived. She later supported the investigation, which resulted in an arrest and capital murder charges. ETCOG honored Officer Duraso for extraordinary courage and calm leadership in a high-risk situation. She was later recognized with the Medal of Valor by the Longview Police Department, along with congressional recognition from the office of U.S. Congressman Nathaniel Moran. REGIONAL CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD (Two Recipients) This award is designed to honor an East Texas citizen who has contributed to the well-being of the East Texas Region. Debbie Bryan, Smith County Volunteer Retirement did not slow Debbie Bryan’s commitment to public service. It redirected it. After retiring from the University of Texas System, Bryan became actively involved with the Smith County Office of Emergency Management, volunteering her own time and resources to strengthen preparedness across the region. She has participated in more than 75 emergency preparedness events, connecting directly with more than 4,000 residents to help families prepare for emergencies and access critical resources. She also helped coordinate training opportunities through Texas Ready, expanding access to state-recognized preparedness training, and prioritized outreach to vulnerable and underserved residents, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged households. Sandra Kooker, Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center Volunteer For Sandra Kooker, community service looks like long miles and early mornings because in East Texas, animal welfare is increasingly a regional challenge. Since 2021, Kooker has volunteered with the Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center (LACAC), an open-admission facility serving animals across Gregg County and surrounding communities. As shelters elsewhere have reduced intake or closed, LACAC’s role has become even more essential and more strained. Kooker meets that need as a primary volunteer driver for LACAC’s transport van, making thousands-of-miles round-trip journeys to partner organizations such as North Shore Animal League America (New York) and The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue (Tennessee). In 2025 alone, she completed dozens of transports. With trips that carried up to 30 animals, she helped facilitate the rescue and rehoming of hundreds of dogs and cats, while also creating space for LACAC to continue serving the region. REGIONAL CORPORATE CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD The Regional Corporate Citizen of the Year award honors a corporate partner in East Texas who has contributed to the well-being of the Region. Brookshire Grocery Company (Tyler, Texas) In East Texas, corporate citizenship is measured by what a company does when communities need stability and essentials, especially under pressure. ETCOG recognized Brookshire Grocery Company for consistent, practical investment in the well-being of the region’s cities, nonprofits, schools, and families. During natural disasters, severe weather, or economic hardships, Brookshire’s is known for stepping forward decisively. The company keeps stores open, when possible, reopens quickly, and supports relief efforts with food, supplies, and logistical assistance in coordination with local leaders and organizations. ETCOG also highlighted the company’s long-term impact through local employment, economic stability, and sustained community engagement, often delivered quietly and without fanfare, but felt across the communities it serves. REGIONAL COMMITTEE SERVICE AWARD The Regional Committee Service Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated a sustained, dedicated commitment to ETCOG efforts and activities. Laura Hill, City of Longview (ETCOG Solid Waste Advisory Committee) The work of regional cooperation happens where plans become action, inside the committees that bring local leaders and technical experts together to solve shared problems. ETCOG honored Laura Hill for sustained, high-impact service supporting regional collaboration. With more than 30 years in public service, Hill brings steady leadership and deep experience to ETCOG’s work. Since 2022, she has served as Chair of the Regional Solid Waste Advisory Committee, helping guide the Regional Solid Waste Management Plan with a focus that extends beyond disposal to source reduction, reuse and recycling, and long-term planning. Under her leadership, the committee has helped evaluate projects, review proposals, and shape funding recommendations to advance regional goals such as reducing waste headed to disposal, curbing illegal dumping, keeping household hazardous waste properly managed, and strengthening long-term environmental quality. Hill has also supported broader regional priorities, including America250 coordination efforts and assisting with the Point-in-Time count, strengthening efforts to understand and support unhoused populations across multiple counties. REGIONAL SHINING STAR AWARD* The Regional Shining Star Award is designed to recognize people who have provided exceptional support or invaluable partnership to the East Texas Council of Governments. *This is not a standard ETCOG award given annually, but at the discretion of the Board of Directors. Dr. Robert Haberle, Workforce Solutions East Texas Board Some leaders do not just serve a program. They shape its impact over decades. ETCOG presented the Regional Shining Star Award, reserved for rare, above-and-beyond service, to Dr. Robert Haberle for long-term leadership supporting ETCOG and Workforce Solutions East Texas. Since joining the Workforce Solutions East Texas Board in 2011, Haberle has helped guide a workforce system operating at a significant scale, with a budget of just over $60 million, providing no-cost services to employers and job seekers. In the past year alone, Workforce Solutions East Texas supported more than 81,000 businesses and job seekers, provided nearly $1 million in job training scholarships, helped thousands of unemployment claimants return to work, and subsidized child care for more than 9,000 families, alongside investments in childcare quality and support for small child care providers. Dr. Robert Haberle was appointed to the Workforce Solutions East Texas Board by the region’s Chief Elected Officials, through Cherokee County Judge Chris Davis, and has held multiple leadership roles, including Workforce Centers Committee Chair, Vice Chairman, and Board Chairman. He served six years as Chairman (October 2016 to September 2022), helping strengthen collaboration with the CEO Board, and he continues to lead key subcommittee work supporting new workforce centers in Longview and Tyler. He also represents East Texas statewide and nationally as Vice Chair of the Texas Association of Workforce Boards and as the region’s representative to the National Association of Workforce Boards. His public service also includes serving as Mayor of Jacksonville (2005–2011) and representing Jacksonville on the ETCOG Board of Directors. REGIONAL STATESMANSHIP AWARD The Regional Statesmanship Award recognizes a local, state, or federal official who has demonstrated valuable, dedicated service to regional cooperation. Camp County Judge AJ Mason Regional progress depends on leaders who build trust and keep cooperation moving, even when much of that work happens behind the scenes. ETCOG honored Camp County Judge AJ Mason with the Regional Statesmanship Award for dedicated service supporting regional cooperation and for leadership grounded in fairness, transparency, and respect. Nomination comments described Judge Mason as a leader who listens closely, engages directly, and ensures community members are heard, approaching decisions with an even-handed commitment to the common good. ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland also recognized Judge Mason’s behind-the-scenes service as an ETCOG Board officer and Executive Committee member, noting his willingness to serve across subcommittees and contribute detailed program knowledge where it matters most. Judge Mason is also respected among his peers, including service as Chief Elected Officials–Rural Transportation Planning Organization (CEO-RTPO) Vice Chairman over multiple consecutive terms, an additional example of a servant-minded approach that earns trust across the region.
ETCOG will honor regional citizens and organizations who exemplify excellence in performance and innovation and contribute to the quality of life within the communities that comprise our 14-county region. The awards listed below will be conferred at ETCOG’s 109th Semi-Annual Board of Directors Meeting on Thursday, March 19th, at The Whitehouse City Center in Whitehouse, Texas, from 11:45 am to 2:00 pm. Award criteria and recipient information are as follows: REGIONAL FIRST RESPONDER OF THE YEAR AWARDS Officer Brady Gould, Whitehouse Police Department Officer Rachel Duraso, Longview Police Department Two recipients have been selected to receive the Regional First Responder of the Year award. This award recognizes first responders who have rendered extraordinary service, putting their lives on the line for our safety while performing their duties as peace officers, firemen, EMS and dispatchers, DPS officers, and troopers. REGIONAL CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS Debbie Bryan, Smith County Volunteer Sandra Kooker, Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center Volunteer Two recipients have been selected to receive the Regional Citizen of the Year award. This award is designed to honor an East Texas citizen who has contributed to the well-being of the East Texas Region. REGIONAL CORPORATE CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD Brookshire Grocery Company – Tyler, Texas The Regional Corporate Citizen of the Year award honors a corporate partner in East Texas who has contributed to the well-being of the Region. REGIONAL COMMITTEE SERVICE AWARD Laura Hill, City of Longview, ETCOG Solid Waste Advisory Committee The Regional Committee Service Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated a sustained, dedicated commitment to ETCOG efforts and activities. REGIONAL SHINING STAR AWARD* Dr. Robert Haberle, Workforce Solutions East Texas Board The Regional Shining Star Award is to recognize people who have provided exceptional support or invaluable partnership to the East Texas Council of Governments. *This is not a standard ETCOG award given annually, but at the discretion of the Board of Directors. REGIONAL STATESMANSHIP AWARD Judge AJ Mason, Camp County The Regional Statesmanship Award recognizes a local, state, or federal official who has demonstrated valuable, dedicated service to regional cooperation. “We are excited to host our regional awards ceremony, where we will recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of individuals, elected officials, and organizations that have made a positive impact on our region,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. “This year’s ceremony will feature eight awards—more than we’ve ever presented—highlighting the extraordinary dedication and leadership of those who are making a real difference in the lives of the people they serve. We look forward to gathering the ETCOG Board to honor these outstanding members of our community and to showcase their achievements.” Details of the award recipient's contributions and photos will be sent following the meeting.
Workforce Solutions East Texas is sharing updates about our Longview and Tyler centers to make it easier for job seekers and employers to access the services they need. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services has closed its Alpine Road location and relocated within the Longview Workforce Center. VR staff are co-located with our Workforce Solutions team, providing seamless access to information about how VR can help individuals with disabilities prepare for, find, or maintain employment. Customers can enter through the same main entrance as everyone else while still meeting with counselors privately. Co-locating VR staff at Workforce Solutions offices strengthens our commitment to providing comprehensive support for all job seekers, including those with disabilities. These services complement our core offerings, helping individuals reach their employment goals while connecting employers with qualified candidates. Workforce Solutions - Longview / Vocational Rehabilitation Office: 1905 W Loop 281, STE 40 Longview, TX 75604 VR Phone: (903) 230-9958 In Tyler, our team is preparing to relocate in mid-April. The current Tyler Workforce Center at 4100 Troup Highway will close to the public beginning at 5 p.m. on March 20. The center will reopen in mid-April at its new location in the Midtown Centre at 1421 S. Beckham Avenue, with hours Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. During the move, staff will serve customers virtually at 1-844-ETWORKS. Workforce Solutions East Texas provides no-cost employment and recruitment services to job seekers and employers throughout the region. Services for job seekers include: Job listings and referrals Resume assistance Veterans services Career planning and workshops GED guidance Occupational training information Internet, copier, fax, and phone access Community and child care resources Access to VR and other partner services Employers can access: On-site recruiting, interviewing, and hiring Job fairs and internet-based job postings Assistance with customized skill training Wage and labor market information Support during employee layoffs See all Workforce Solutions East Texas locations at www.easttexasworkforce.org/locations .
ETCOG will host a free, three‑day Sexual Assault and Family Violence Investigator Course (SAFVIC) on April 22–24, 2026, at the ETCOG offices located at 3800 Stone Road in Kilgore. The course will run daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is open at no cost to all licensed East Texas peace officers. Course topics include: History and statistics related to sexual assault and family violence Dynamics of abuse Applicable laws Investigative techniques Effective courtroom performance Drug‑facilitated sexual assault Stalking Community response and coordination Victim support resources SAFVIC, taught by ETCOG’s Special Projects Director, David Scott, Ph.D., is designed to better equip officers with the training and tools necessary to respond effectively to sexual assault and family violence cases. Participants will receive 24 hours of TCOLE credit (Course #3264) upon completion. Officers who have their TCOLE Intermediate Certificate will be eligible to receive the Sexual Assault/Family Violence Investigator Certificate from TCOLE upon completion of this course. The training may also be taken in lieu of Special Investigative Topics (TCOLE #3232) and the Trauma‑Informed Approach to Sexual Assault Investigations Courses (TCOLE #470 & #4070). The SAFVIC program is a statewide initiative aimed at strengthening law‑enforcement response and ensuring victims receive trauma‑informed, professional assistance. Officers interested in attending can learn more at www.safvic.org or contact training@safvic.org or (800) 848‑2088. For questions, contact David Scott at David.Scott@etcog.org .
At its February meeting, the East Texas Council of Governments Executive Committee awarded the City of Longview and the City of Winnsboro as this year’s recipients of the Veteran-Friendly Community Designation. The Veteran-Friendly Community Designation program was created in 2025 to recognize communities that actively welcome and support veterans and their families by meeting real needs in everyday life. In its first year, ETCOG designated the City of Tyler/Smith County and the City of Quitman/Wood County as the program’s inaugural Veteran-Friendly Communities. A Veteran-Friendly Community is defined as one that provides ongoing support in areas including employment, housing, transportation, health care, education, and overall quality of life. Communities seeking designation were required to meet established standards, including: Provide proof of community and organizational support. Submit a comprehensive community profile with key information for veterans and their families, including demographics, housing, and healthcare access. Maintain a community development strategy that directly addresses veterans’ needs. Complete an initial and annual self-assessment to identify service gaps and guide improvements. “Recognizing Longview and Winnsboro as Veteran-Friendly Communities reflects the real work these cities are doing for the men and women who served our country,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. “Veterans deserve more than words of thanks. They deserve access to jobs, healthcare, housing, and support systems that help them build strong lives at home. These communities are setting the standard for what that looks like in East Texas.” “Programs like this help communities take a clear look at what they’re doing well and where they can grow,” said ETCOG Special Projects Director David Scott. “It’s about making sure veterans can live, work, and raise families in places that value their service and invest in their future.” With continued interest from communities across the region, ETCOG plans to reopen the application process annually to allow more cities and counties to pursue the Veteran-Friendly Community Designation.
ETCOG is proud to host the Texas Department of Agriculture on March 12th to hold a TxCDBG Regional Outreach Meeting. Join us to hear a TxCDBG grant program overview of requirements, allocation formula, upcoming funding opportunities, and TDA's one-year action plan. Eligible applicants in our region are all non-entitlement communities, which include all of our cities with the exception of Tyler, Marshall, and Longview. When Thursday, March 12, 2026 10:00 AM Where ETCOG Headquarters 3800 Stone Road Kilgore, TX 75662 Please RSVP your attendance!
Nominations are Due by Tuesday, February 10, 2026