Fourth of July weekend is upon us, but, this year's Independence day will look a little different from others. On Thursday, July 2nd, Governor Greg Abbott issued a nearly statewide mask mandate in an effort to get Texas' COVID numbers under control. Gov. Abbott said in an interview:

“If we do not contain this measure right now, we will lose the last, best chance to slow the coronavirus for anything short of having to shut our economy back down. That’s the last thing we want to have happen in Texas.”

I also say "nearly statewide" because, while anit-mask advocates are freaking out, the mandate is specifically for Texans living in counties with more than 20 coronavirus cases. You can check the entire order here. But some of the highlights include:

  • The mandate takes effect at 12:01 P.M. on July 3, 2020
  • According to the order, first-time violators will be issued a warning. If violated a second time, a $250 fine will be issued.

There are also exemptions to wearing the masks. Those exempted include anyone under the age of 10, a person with a medical condition or disability that prevents wearing a face covering. If you are outdoors exercising, while maintaining social distance, you don't have to wear a mask. If you are driving or in a  car with people of your same household, you don't have to wear a mask. If you are seated at a restaurant and are eating or drinking, you don't have to wear a mask. It's pretty simple.

Governor Abbott took to Twitter to make his announcement.


 

Texans on Twitter had A LOT to say after seeing this announcement. Here are some of the crazy/hilarious responses to Gov. Abbott's announcement.

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