State of Texas Updates

• Governor Greg Abbott today directed HHSC to expand COVID-19 testing to all patients, residents, and staff at the 23 state-operated inpatient psychiatric hospitals and living centers throughout Texas.

• Governor Abbott also issued Executive Order (GA-24) terminating air travel restrictionsrelated to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Governor Abbott and DPS announced phased reopening of driver license offices, offered by appointment only.

• Governor Abbott announced that CVS Health will open 44 new COVID-19 test sites at select CVS Pharmacy drive-thru locations across Texas. These new sites will utilize self-swab tests and will be available to individuals who meet the CDC criteria in addition to age guidelines. Patients must register in advance at CVS.com beginning Friday, May 22, to schedule an appointment. CVS Health plans to have over 80 drive-thru testing locations in Texas by the end of May.

• HHSC shared information on how Texans can use their SNAP food benefits to order online groceries.

• Today, TEA recognized this year’s U.S. Presidential Scholars from Texas. Please join us in celebrating! These high-flying high school seniors are excellent examples of some of the best, brightest, and most dynamic students in our state.

• TEA is promoting the optional, free at-home End-of-Year assessments that parents can sign their children up for between now and June 5.

• TEA Commissioner Morath unveiled important CARES Act Funding details for superintendents on his bi-weekly statewide call this afternoon: CARES Act Funding and Expense Reimbursement FAQ (PDF); 2019-2020 CARES Entitlement Amounts by LEA(PDF).