Texas Opens Up Today And Lifts The Mask Mandate

Today is the day that the mask mandate ends in Texas and they officially open up 100 percent but what does that mean for you?

Governor Greg Abbott issued an Executive Order called GA-34 that lifts the mask mandate in Texas and increasing the capacity of all businesses and facilities in the state to 100 percent. Here is what the governor had to say about this executive order.

"With the medical advancements of vaccines and antibody therapeutic drugs, Texas now has the tools to protect Texans from the virus.”  "We must now do more to restore livelihoods and normalcy for Texans by opening Texas 100 percent. Make no mistake, COVID-19 has not disappeared, but it is clear from the recoveries, vaccinations, reduced hospitalizations, and safe practices that Texans are using that state mandates are no longer needed."

This goes into effect today. But here is what it means to all of us that live in the border state of Texarkana. All Texas side businesses will be at 100 percent capacity. All restaurants will have all tables available for you to sit at. And there is no longer a mask mandate, but some businesses may still have the need for you to wear a mask so make sure you carry one with you.

Arkansas still has a mask mandate and restaurants and businesses are at 100 percent as well. Governor Hutchison recommends that if the business feels comfortable in having 100 percent capacity and can keep their customers safe they can do so. Keep in mind that there is still a mask mandate in Arkansas until the end of the month. So make sure to keep your masks handy.