A Facebook post published Jan. 10 by Hays County announced rollbacks on the opening capacities of businesses would go into effect Jan. 11 as a result of increased COVID-19 hospitalizations in Trauma Service Area O.

COVID-19 patients accounted for more than 15% of hospital capacity in TSA O for more than seven consecutive days, triggering the rollbacks under Gov. Greg Abbott's executive order GA-32. TSA O includes 11 counties in the capital area.

The county previously issued notice of the impending rollback Jan. 8 to give businesses forewarning, according to a Hays County spokesperson.

Businesses in TSA O with opening capacities of 75% were required to reduce capacity to 50%, and elective surgeries were put on hold, effective immediately.

Bars not operating as restaurants were also forced to close.