Governor Abbott Says Texans Have Mastered The Safe Practices To Prevent COVID-19

With the Delta Variant now running rampant in Texas, this afternoon Governor Abbott issued an Executive Order saying that Texas residents have "mastered the safe practices that help to prevent and avoid the spread of COVID-19".

The governor stressed social distancing and hygiene, and suggested vaccinations, but also added that they will never be mandated by the government.

It also says "no government entity, state agency, private or public entity receiving state funds can compel an individual to take the vaccine."

“Today’s executive order will provide clarity and uniformity in the Lone Star State’s continued fight against COVID-19,” said Governor Abbott. “The new Executive Order emphasizes that the path forward relies on personal responsibility rather than government mandates. Texans have mastered the safe practices that help to prevent and avoid the spread of COVID-19. They have the individual right and responsibility to decide for themselves and their children whether they will wear masks, open their businesses, and engage in leisure activities. Vaccines, which remain in abundant supply, are the most effective defense against the virus, and they will always remain voluntary – never forced – in the State of Texas.”

Read the full text of the Governor's Executive Order here.

According to Texas Health and Human Services, there are 6347 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Texas, in Bell County, there are 911 new cases as of noon 7/29/2021.