Governor Abbott Allows County Officials to Open Bars

Governor Abbott issued an Executive Order on October 7 to open bars and similar establishments at up to 50% capacity in conjunction with county officials. In hospital regions where COVID-19 hospitalizations are less than 15% of hospital capacity, County Judges will be able to opt their county into opening bars beginning October 14, provided they assist in enforcing health protocols. However, Judge Clay Jenkins has said that he will not file to open these establishments in Dallas County at this time. The Governor's Executive Order also increases the occupancy levels for all business establishments other than bars to 75% including movie theaters, libraries, and museums.