Texas Governor Abbott has issued a statewide mask order. Beginning the day before Independence Day at noon, the government will require Texans to wear masks or “face coverings” when out in public in all counties with 20 or more confirmed COVID-19 cases, when it’s not possible to remain six feet apart. A warning will be issued the first time a citizen doesn’t wear a mask in public, then a $250 fine will be issued the second time. Abbott also said, “No one can ever be put in jail for violating this safe practice.”
The governor has also issued an order limiting public gatherings to 10 people, effectively canceling Independence Day celebrations.
Back in May, four justices on the Texas Supreme Court reminded Texans that the “Constitution is not suspended when the government declares a state of disaster.” The message from the justices went on to say, “burdens on constitutional liberties may not survive judicial scrutiny.” There’s no word yet from the justices on the legality of Abbott’s latest executive orders.
