As counties and cities across the region issue shelter-in-place orders to combat the spread of the coronavirus, find out more information on what the orders mean for your community in the stories below.
Brazoria County
Brazoria County issues 'Stay Safe at Home' order
Brazoria County Judge Matt Sebesta announced in a press conference March 25 the county’s “Stay Safe at Home” order, urging citizens to not leave their homes except to take essential trips, such as to the grocery store or to care for a loved one.
The county is also asking that businesses deemed essential curb the spread of the virus as well, namely by not allowing large numbers of employees to congregate in break rooms or meeting spaces.
Pearland issues stay-at-home order on the heels of Brazoria County's similar order
A few hours after Brazoria County’s announcement, Pearland Mayor Tom Reid signed a similar order for the city. He also signed an order to make it easier for businesses to advertise and fulfill takeout orders.
Galveston County
Galveston County issues stay-at-home order
Galveston County on March 23 was the first government in the region to give a stay-at-home order.
“It’s about trying to grasp the public’s attention that this is a serious matter and they need to help by demonstrating some personal responsibility here,” League City Mayor Pat Hallisey said.
Harris County
Stay-at-home order given for all nonessential employees in Harris County
County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Mayor Sylvester Turner held a joint press conference March 24 outlining the ramifications and intentions of Harris County and the city of Houston’s official directive to stay home.
Can I leave my house? What is still open? Learn what the stay-at-home order means for Harris County residents
As the “Stay Home-Work Safe” order takes effect in Harris County, Editor Shawn Arrajj answers some frequently asked questions on how it will affect everyday life and how to remain in compliance.
Fort Bend County
Fort Bend County district attorney urges residents to follow order to stay home: 'Don't require law enforcement to get involved'
After County Judge KP George issued a “Stay at Home to Save Lives” order March 24, the district attorney encouraged residents to stay at home as much as possible to avoid the need for law enforcement involvement.
Montgomery County
BREAKING: Montgomery County issues stay-at-home order, nightly curfew through April 12
Just days after County Judge Mark Keough declined to commit to issuing a stay-at-home order, Montgomery County on March 27 became the latest area government to announce such a mandate, requiring nonessential businesses to close and imposing a daily curfew from 11:59 p.m. to 6 a.m.
'Gain compliance without arrest': Montgomery County law enforcement urges voluntary compliance to contain coronavirus
While the county district attorney and sheriff’s offices said residents in violation of the order could face up to $1,000 in fines or six months in jail, a lieutenant told Community Impact Newspaper that police officers will be focusing on educating the community about the order before considering arrests.
Waller County
Waller County issues order that emphasizes social distancing but does not shut down local businesses
In a deviation from other counties’ coronavirus-related restrictions, Waller County Judge Trey Duhon unveiled an order he described as one that balances social distancing, economic activity and constitutional freedoms while keeping businesses open. Duhon cited the potential economic consequences of a more restrictive order as a reason for his decision.
Haley Morrison, Shawn Arrajj, Beth Marshall, Ben Thompson, Eva Vigh and Jen Para contributed to this report.
