The state masking mandate goes into effect July 3. Enforcement includes up to a $250 fine for residents not wearing a mask in counties with more than 20 positive cases of COVID-19.
The order also grants mayors and county judges the authority to prohibit gatherings greater than 10 people except with special permission.
"At this time, Travis County Judge Sam Biscoe has no intention of putting in place a permitting process for such gatherings, at least through the July 4th holiday weekend," Travis County Public Information Officer Hector Nieto said in a press statement. "Therefore, per the Governor's order today, all such gatherings are prohibited in unincorporated areas of Travis County."
Abbott's decision to yield local leaders more control over large gatherings and coronavirus-related health mandates follows Biscoe's submission of a letter to the governor June 29, urging Abbott to "roll back" previous state restriction that limited local leaders from being able to take certain actions to safeguard the health of local communities.
