State of Texas Updates

• Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation expanding additional services and activities that can open under Phase II of the State's plan to safely and strategically open. With this proclamation, water parks, recreational sport programs for adults, driver education programs, and food-court dining areas within shopping malls can begin operations with limited occupancy or regulations to protect the health and safety of Texans.

• In consultation with DSHS, the Secretary of State's Office today released guidance on recommended health protocols for Texas election officials and voters in response to COVID-19.

• With more data being reported, DSHS’ COVID-19 online dashboard now has two sections: Case data; and Testing and hospital data. Note that the test positivity rate for the seven days prior is 5.15%.

• ICYMI from TDEM: At Governor Abbott’s direction, [are%20spread%20out%20across%20Texas%20to%20tackle%20COVID-19%20clusters]surge response teams were in 60 communities across Texas to tackle COVID-19 clusters by helping with testing, medical supply delivery and sanitation.

• A reminder: May is Mental Health Month. If the COVID-19 pandemic is causing stress and anxiety, Texans are invited to call 1-833-986-1919 to speak to a mental health professional.

• Employees of HHSC’s Corpus Christi State Supported Living Center donated more than 2,600 pounds of food and dry goods for needy families during the Coastal Bend Food Bank food drive.

• HHSC and other state agencies amplified the Governor’s video on staying safe during COVID-19.

• HHSC is hosting an upcoming COVID-19 related webinar for nursing facility providers.

• HHSC reminded long-term care providers to prepare for hurricane season.

• To support continuous learning over the Summer, TEA and Renaissance are teaming up to provide Texas students with free access to digital books and news articles. Thousands of titles in English, Spanish & French will available for download.