City Of El Paso Releases New Local Emergency Directive

In light of the skyrocketing positive COVID-19 test numbers, the City of El Paso has made some changes to the Fourth Local Emergency Directive. Mayor Dee Margo said he is making the changes in order to "protect our public health and our local economy, from further damage as a result of COVID-19.”

So let's get down to what you need to know:

1. Nursing homes - You can't visit nursing homes, state supported living centers, assisted living facilities, or long-term care facilities unless as determined through guidance from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

2. Parades - If you're planning on throwing a parade, you can only have 100 participants or fewer. You can get approval from the Mayor to have a larger parade. You can click here to find out how.

3. Outdoor gatherings - Just like with parades, no more than 100 people unless you get prior approval from the Mayor. Click here for more information.

4. Outdoor markets - It sounds like there will still be farmers markets or outdoor markets, but click here to find out the rules. The City has the Downtown Farmers Market. We'll have to see if they will have it going forward.

5. Restaurants - Restaurants with less than 51 percent of their gross receipts from the sale of alcoholic beverages will only be able to operate up to 50 percent of the total listed occupancy beginning Monday, June 29, 2020.

6. Bars - If an establishment has a permit from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and are not defined as a restaurant as per the Directive, they will have to close down. There is a glimmer of hope - bars or similar establishments can have drive-thru, pickup, or delivery options for food and drinks, to the extent authorized by TABC.

Please wear your mask. Please wash your hands. Please practice social distancing. Please let's work together to get past this.