In the last week, Governor Greg Abbott and other State officials have taken several public policy measures to stem the tide of COVID-19 and provide much needed relief to Texas residents. Here are the most notable actions taken by the Governor in the last few days.
State approves Medicaid and Medicare waivers
On Monday, Governor Abbott announced that the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) has approved the Section 1135 Waiver submitted by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. This waiver will help ensure Texans on Medicaid continue to have their routine needs met, while the state combats COVID-19. Long-term care providers, intermediate care facilities, home and community-based services programs, and hospitals will now have more flexibility when it comes to requirements. Click here for a full list of flexibilities granted under this waiver.
School closures extended until May
On Tuesday, Governor Abbott announced a new executive order that will keep public schools closed until May 4. This is an extension of a previous order that implemented essential services and activities protocol for the entire state of Texas.
This extension will remain in effect until April 30, to align with the federal social distancing guidelines. Restaurants, bars, gyms, massage establishments, cosmetology salons, and other non-essential businesses are to remain closed. Restaurants can continue to offer takeout and delivery services. A list of essential services can be found here.
Abbott is asking all Texans to stay home unless they are accessing essential services or engaging in essential daily activities. If you are to engage in physical activity or engage in essential daily activities, you are expected to follow social distancing practices. You can view the official press release from Governor Abbott here.
Comfort Food Care Package program
On Tuesday, Abbott also announced the Comfort Food Care Package (CFCP) program which will provide meals for at-risk youth and families across Texas as the state continues to combat COVID-19. Texans can purchase care packages on behalf of families and youth in need at participating restaurants. All care packages contain enough food to feed a family of five to six and will be delivered to the recipients’ home. The program is a partnership between the Governor's Public Safety Office, the Texas network of Family and Youth Success Programs (formerly called Services to At-Risk Youth), Favor Delivery, and the Texas Restaurant Association.
