Governor Abbott Tells Texans to Stay Home

The number of coronavirus cases continues to rise Lubbock and throughout Texas. On Monday, the governor urged citizens to wash their hands, social distance, and strongly urged citizens to wear masks or face coverings. Governor Abbott warned that stronger measures could come if Texas doesn't reverse the trend.

On Tuesday, Governor Abbott urged Texans to stay home unless they must get out, according to the Houston Chronicle:

“We want to make sure everyone reinforces the best safe practices of wearing a mask, hand sanitation, maintaining safe distance, but importantly, because the spread is so rampant right now, there’s never a reason for you to have to leave your home unless you need to go out,” Abbott said on KBTX. “The safest place for you is at your home.”

It's not an official order from the governor, but it's another sign of just how serious he is taking the rise in cases around the state.

Gov. Abbott on Tuesday also granted local leaders the ability to limit outdoor gathers to no more than 100 people, along with directing the state health agency to put back into place safety standards that were rolled back on child care centers.

The governor has also allowed county judges to fine businesses that don't require their customers to wear face masks. Lubbock County Judge Curtis Parrish told KFYO Mornings with Dave King and Matt Martin on Tuesday that he is not interested in imposing those fines.