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State and federal officials are working to keep residents informed as they continue working to protect Americans from Coronavirus.

According to the Center for Disease Control, coronaviruses are common throughout the world and can infect people and animals.

The World Health Organization has now qualified the coronavirus as an international pandemic and says the large family of viruses can cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe conditions such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome.

A novel coronavirus is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.

Like the flu, people with serious chronic medical conditions and who are over the age of sixty are at a higher risk of getting sick and developing more severe conditions.

Federal and state officials are working continuously to ensure outbreaks do not occur in U.S. communities.  

The following updates are intended to keep communities informed.

UPDATE at 4:00 AM Friday, March 13, 2020:
Two people have tested positive in Austin. Local health officials stated that both cases are NOT believed to be community spread.

UPDATE at 4:04 AM Friday, March 13, 2020:
Austin ISD officials have canceled classes and close campuses for today due to fears over coronavirus. They have notified 90,000 parents, students and staff with robocalls early this morning.

The two individuals in Austin have not been added to the list below as of yet. State health officials will not update these numbers until 10:00 AM. As soon as we receive updated case counts for Texas, we will update this page.

Texas Health and Human Services Updates Coronavirus Case Counts at 12:00 PM, M-F.
•
*UPDATED: The Case Numbers Below Were Updated On March 13, 2020, At 12:00 PM
*We will update the numbers below as soon as they become available

County of Residence2	Number of Cases3
Bell	1
Collin	6
Dallas	7
Fort Bend	6
Gregg	1
Harris	9
Montgomery	3
Smith	3
Tarrant	1
Travis	2
Total	39

¹DSHS will update the state case count each day by 10 a.m. Central Time.
²Patient may be undergoing treatment in facilities in other counties.
³Does not include repatriation cases.
⁴Travis County cases are pending confirmation of county of residence.

Governor Abbott Holds Call With Texas Legislators, Mayors, And County Judges To Provide Update On Coronavirus Efforts

AUSTIN – Yesterday, Governor Greg Abbott hosted a conference call with Texas legislators, mayors, and county judges to provide an update on the state’s ongoing efforts to combat coronavirus (COVID-19). The Governor outlined Texas’ strategies to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and ensure communities are prepared to respond to any confirmed cases in their areas.

Governor Abbott also reinforced the state’s commitment to collaborating with local jurisdictions to make certain they have the support, resources, and supplies needed to protect their communities.

The Governor encouraged local jurisdictions to track and report any expenses associated with COVID-19 for potential reimbursement from the federal government.

He also encouraged local jurisdictions to maintain consistent communication with state partners and to continue implementing proactive, vigilant strategies at the local level.

The Governor was joined on the call by Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Commissioner John Hellerstedt, MD, Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) Chief Nim Kidd, and Texas Education Agency (TEA) Commissioner Mike Morath.

During the call, Commissioner Morath announced that starting tomorrow, the TEA will begin hosting daily calls with superintendents across the state to ensure relevant information on COVID-19 is communicated to school districts in a timely manner.

“The State of Texas continues to implement proactive strategies to respond to any and all new developments of COVID-19 and that includes collaborating with our local partners throughout Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “Local jurisdictions are essential to our mission of protecting public health, and state agencies will continue to be in constant contact with local leaders to provide additional resources and the most up to date information. I am grateful for the responsiveness and cooperation of our mayors and county judges as we continue our efforts to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. Together, we will continue to build on our response capabilities and implement proactive strategies that protect the health and safety of all Texans.”

DPS Takes Preventative Measures Against COVID-19, Encourages Texans To Do The Same

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is taking preventative measures against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by implementing additional sanitation practices at driver license (DL) offices and issuing guidance to members of the department on best practices, as we know that common sense hygiene and cleaning practices can aid in preventing the spread of many diseases, including COVID-19.

The best way to prevent infection is to take precautions to avoid exposure to COVID-19, which are similar to those you take to avoid the flu. That’s why the department has posted signage throughout DPS offices related to best practices for hygiene and prevention efforts.

DPS is following the recommended guidelines set forth by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC). DSHS has a number of resources on its website related to COVID-19 and the ways we can all do our part to stop the spread.

Specifically, at DL offices across the state, DPS has issued guidance to custodial and DL staff to increase sanitation practices throughout the day, including cleaning office equipment with alcohol-based products after customer transactions. Additionally, the department has increased janitorial services provided in offices, and public spaces within DL offices, i.e. kiosks, public restrooms, door handles, etc., are being cleaned more frequently throughout the day. Hand sanitizer is also available for customers throughout DL offices.

Additionally, DPS wants to remind Texans of the many ways to conduct their DL transactions online without the need to come into an office. Some individuals may be eligible to skip the trip and quickly renew their Texas DL or identification (ID) card online (or by phone). Address changes can also be taken care of online (or by mail) in many instances. Find out if you are eligible to renew online by visiting Texas.gov. The fee is the same for online, in-person and telephone renewals. For additional information about renewing your driver’s license or ID card, visit the DPS website.

Texas Investigates A Case Of Coronavirus Without Travel Or Known exposure

Public health officials in Texas are investigating a case of COVID-19, the illness caused by the new coronavirus, in a Montgomery County resident with no out-of-state travel and no identified contact with another person with COVID-19.

Montgomery County Public Health continues to work to determine whether there is a connection to another case or whether this is a case of community spread. Community spread occurs when a person contracts an illness from an unknown source.

“With the possibility of spread in one of our communities, now is the time to intensify our efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19 in all our communities,” said Dr. John Hellerstedt, Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) commissioner. “Please continue to take personal preventive actions like washing your hands, disinfecting homes and businesses, and staying home if you’re sick. It’s also vitally important to heed the advice of local leaders because there may be calls to take broader community actions depending on the situation in your area.”

“From the very start, the state of Texas has anticipated the possibility of community spread of COVID-19, and the proactive strategies we have in place were developed with this very scenario in mind,” said Governor Abbott. “State personnel are trained and equipped to respond to this situation and are actively working to mitigate the impact of community spread. State and agency leaders, including myself, are in constant contact with our federal and local partners to ensure that Texas communities have the resources and the most up to date information to protect public health. Texas is prepared with the necessary protocols to face this challenge, and I encourage all Texans to follow the preventative guidelines from state, federal, and local agencies.”

There are things everyone can do to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then wash your hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Additionally, local authorities may implement actions like suspending large events, closing places where many residents gather and encouraging people to keep six feet of physical separation between them.

Residents should monitor the situation in their area and follow the recommendations of local leaders.

Minimizing exposure is especially important for people who are 65 or older or who have an underlying health condition like heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, high blood pressure or cancer.

People in those groups have a higher risk of developing a severe case if they do get COVID-19, and the safest thing for them during an outbreak will be to stay home as much as possible and minimize close contact with other people.

To get ready, they should talk to their doctor about getting additional prescription medications and have enough household items and groceries on hand to stay home as needed.

Testing is available through public health and private laboratories, and capacity continues to grow. People who experience COVID-19 symptoms like fever, cough and shortness of breath should contact their health care provider and follow their instructions on being assessed.

To date, Texas has had 21 confirmed or presumptive cases of COVID-19. DSHS is posting the latest information, guidance for the public, health care providers and others, and updating case counts daily at www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus.

Governor Abbott, DSHS Commissioner Hellerstedt Urge Texans To Take Preventative Measures Against Coronavirus

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott and Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Commissioner John Hellerstedt, MD, today urged Texans to continue taking preventative measures against Coronavirus (COVID-19) to contain the spread of the disease.

The Governor and Commissioner urged Texans to heed the direction of health providers and public health entities and asked that Texans take common sense, everyday action to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.

“As the State of Texas continues to implement proactive strategies to combat COVID-19, we encourage all Texans to take precautionary steps to protect themselves and those around them,” read the statement. “Actions, like washing your hands with soap and water, staying home when you are sick, avoiding shaking hands, and covering a cough or sneeze, may seem like simple tasks, but they can have a tremendous impact to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect public health. We urge all Texans to adopt these preventative measures into their daily routines and to follow the guidance of their health care providers as well as state, federal, and local public health entities.”

Additionally, DSHS has released an informational video featuring Dr. Hellerstedt that details effective precautionary measures Texans can take to protect themselves.

DSHS always recommends these everyday actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

For more information on what Texans can do at home to prevent the spread of COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

For up-to-date information on the status COVID-19 in Texas, visit the DSHS website. 

Senate To Stay In Session To Address Bipartisan Coronavirus Response Bill

WASHINGTON –Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the need for the Senate to set aside partisan politics and work together on a bipartisan economic package to help Americans impacted by the coronavirus.

The Senate canceled the previously-planned State Work Period next week to work on a bipartisan agreement.

“Leader McConnell announced that we would cancel our state work period so we could continue to work on the legislation here in Washington, D.C. to help families and our communities get through the economic effect of the coronavirus’ spread. I’m glad he made that decision, and I look forward to continuing to work on those issues for the benefit of our constituents and the nation.”

“This situation calls for an all-of-government response, and it will allow us additional time to hammer out a bipartisan agreement to respond to the ripple effect that this outbreak is having in Texas and across the country.”

“As we continue our discussions on this legislation, I would just urge my colleagues that this is the time to put partisanship aside and stop playing politics if there ever was one. There is actually precedent for that.”

“At the height of the Ebola crisis in 2014, Republicans in the Senate worked with our Democratic colleagues and President Obama to ensure we were ready to treat Texans and other Americans who needed care from that particular disease. We need to come together to do the same now, not to use the opportunity to attack or score political points or to try to damage our opponents.”

Watch Senator Cornyn comments on the house floor

Governor Abbott, TDI Ask Health Insurance Providers To Waive Costs Associated With Coronavirus

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) today announced that they have asked health insurers and health maintenance organizations operating in Texas to waive costs associated with the testing and telemedicine visits for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Additionally, TDI is requesting that insurers report their actions related to consumer cost-sharing and access to services so that the department can ensure consumers are aware of their available benefits.

“We must ensure no Texan is denied access to testing resources relating to coronavirus,” said Governor Abbott. “Texans who are concerned that they may have coronavirus should seek medical attention in the most appropriate setting, and telemedicine is a good first medical encounter for anyone experiencing mild symptoms. Consulting a physician from home is a practical way to avoid getting sick, prevent the spread of the virus, and help ensure that emergency rooms are available for those who truly need them. We appreciate the collaboration of health insurers operating in Texas to enhance our state’s proactive approach to addressing any potential outbreaks of COVID-19. The State of Texas is unwavering in our commitment to protecting the health and safety of all Texans.”

TDI is specifically requesting insurers to take the following actions as they relate to COVID-19:

• Waive co-payments, co-insurance, and deductibles for testing that is consistent with guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Waive consumer cost-sharing and facilitate expanded use of telemedicine.
• Cover necessary medical equipment, supplies, and services.
• Waive penalties, restrictions, and claims denials for necessary out-of-network services.
• Waive requirements for pre-authorization, referrals, notification of hospital admission, or medical necessity reviews for care consistent with CDC guidance.
• Allow extra time for health providers and facilities to file claims.
• Authorize payment to pharmacies for up to a 90-day supply of any prescription medication for individuals, regardless of when the prescription was filled.

The following health insurers and health maintenance organizations have already begun to waive cost-sharing for medically-necessary testing of COVID-19, with more being announced in the coming days:

• Aetna (CVS)
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
• Cigna Health of Texas, Inc. 
• Community Health Choice, Inc. 
• Golden Rule Insurance (UHC)
• Humana Health Plan of Texas, Inc.
• Molina Healthcare Insurance Company of Texas
• Oscar Insurance Company
• Scott & White Health Plan
• Superior Health Plan (Centene)
• UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company

These waived costs would specifically impact individuals covered by state-regulated insurance plans. Families concerned about coronavirus who receive benefits through Medicaid and CHIP will be able to access testing ordered by a physician at no cost.

Additionally, the Employees Retirement System of Texas, the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, The Texas A&M University System, and The University of Texas System have been asked to provide these same benefits to employees and retirees covered by their PPO and HMO plans.

Texans should contact their plan administrator to confirm their benefits. 

Governor Abbott, Attorney General Paxton Issue Joint Statement On Reports Of Price-Gouging Of Medical Supplies In Texas

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton today issued a stern warning to anyone participating in price-gouging of medical supplies as Texas continues to combat the potential threat of the coronavirus.

Should there be extensive reports of price-gouging, Governor Abbott has the power to declare Chapter 418 of the Texas Government Code, which will give the Texas Attorney General broader powers to prosecute these cases.

“Price-gouging is un-Texan and will not be tolerated in our state,” read the joint statement. “The state of Texas will work to ensure that anyone who engages in this act is held to account. As we work to address the coronavirus, it is essential that the public has access to health and wellness supplies that can help mitigate any potential spread. We will work to combat any attempt to exploit public health and safety for monetary gain.”

Texans who suspect a case of price-gouging in connection to the potential coronavirus threat should file a consumer complaint with the Consumer Protection Division of the Office of the Attorney General of Texas.

Austin-Based Business Address Social Isolation During Coronavirus Quarantines

An Austin-based business is responding to the coronavirus with online virtual classes to address isolation, loneliness, and boredom in older adults who have to isolate as a result of the virus.

Aging is Cool was founded in 2016 with the goal of helping older adults stay strong, social and smart as they grow older.

According to a New York Times article, thousands of nursing homes and assisted-living centers across the US are becoming islands of isolation as Health Care Administrators lock them down hoping to protect some of the nation’s most vulnerable populations from the virus.

The Austin-based company provides a range of activities for older adults in a variety of settings but is moving to create a virtual model during the current situation.

“Older adults are at the highest risk for adverse outcomes from the coronavirus, “says Amy Temperley, Owner of Aging is Cool. “They are also one of the most at-risk groups for social isolation and loneliness. It’s a double whammy.”

The company will be launching web-based, virtual classes in the next two weeks, which will include stretching and simple seated fitness, brain training, and presentations on various troubles such as travel, history and science.

Classes will be donation-based and accessible by anyone regardless of ability to pay. 

“Our goal is to keep isolated older adults from being bored and depressed during this difficult time,” said Temperley. “If we can keep their minds and bodies engaged, maybe we can make this experience just a little bit easier for them.”

For more information visit www.agingiscool.com.

Blue Cross And Blue Shield Of Texas Will Waive Member Copays And deductibles For COVID-19 tests

RICHARDSON, Texas – Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) members will have access to coronavirus (COVID-19) testing as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and prescribed by health providers.

Effective immediately, BCBSTX will not require preauthorization and will not apply members’ co-pays or deductibles for testing to diagnose COVID-19 when medically necessary and consistent with CDC guidelines.

“Supporting our members in sickness and in health is paramount, which is why we have joined stakeholders in the healthcare system to do our part in contributing to this necessary and collective global effort to help contain and abate COVID-19,” said Dr. Dan McCoy, president of BCBSTX. “We are closely monitoring developments of COVID-19, and stand ready to assist doctors, hospitals and federal, state and local public health organizations in serving our members, our community and employees.”

BCBSTX members who have questions about their coverage should call the number on the back of their ID card.

The state of Texas now has six public health labs within its Laboratory Response Network that are equipped to perform COVID-19 testing, according Gov. Greg Abbott.

The Laboratory Response Network exists to provide laboratory diagnostics and maintain the capacity to respond to biological and chemical threats and other public health emergencies. The CDC is also offering testing at no cost.

The CDC recommends these actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick;
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth;
• Stay home when you are sick;
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash;
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe; and
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.

IRS: High-Deductible Health Plans Can Cover Coronavirus Costs

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today advised that high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) can pay for 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)-related testing and treatment, without jeopardizing their status.

This also means that an individual with an HDHP that covers these costs may continue to contribute to a health savings account (HSA).   

In Notice 2020-15, posted today on IRS.gov, the IRS said that health plans that otherwise qualify as HDHPs will not lose that status merely because they cover the cost of testing for or treatment of COVID-19 before plan deductibles have been met.

The IRS also noted that, as in the past, any vaccination costs continue to count as preventive care and can be paid for by an HDHP.

Today’s notice applies only to HSA-eligible HDHPs. Employees and other taxpayers in any other type of health plan with specific questions about their own plan and what it covers should contact their plan.

Control Order Issued To Combat Spread Of COVID-19 Among Vulnerable Populations

The Austin-Travis County interim health authority has ordered nursing homes, assisted living and other long-term care facilities to take a range of immediate actions to enhance protections against the spread of COVID-19 among vulnerable populations.
 
Dr. Mark Escott sent a health authority control order on Wednesday to more than 300 facilities in Austin-Travis County serving elderly individuals or people with underlying health conditions that make them more susceptible to infection or respiratory disease.

Similar to influenza, COVID-19 has had greater impacts on vulnerable populations, including those who are over the age of 70, and those who have underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease.

The number of people over 70 years old in Austin-Travis County is estimated to be 80,000 – about 6% of the population.
 
Dr. Escott’s control order, the authority for which is set out in Chapter 81 of the Texas Health & Safety Code, mandates a number of specified actions aimed at slowing the spread and reducing the impact of the disease:

• “Help Prevent Disease” signage provided by Austin Public Health must be displayed prominently in the facility. These printable flyers may be found at www.austintexas.gov/covid19. 
• Hand sanitizers must be available and supplied to employees, patients, visitors, and volunteers. 
• The facility must temperature check all employees, patients, visitors, and volunteers prior to entry to the facility. 
• The facility may not admit any individual to the facility with a temperature of 100.4 F or above. 
• Any unexplained febrile illness (100.4 F) of facility employees, patients, visitors or volunteers must be reported to the Austin Public Health Epidemiologist On-Call as soon as possible.

The order does not impact the City of Austin senior centers and other public facilities serving adults 50+. Austin Public Health will continue to assess the need for additional control measures to other communities as the COVID-19 situation develops.

“This is an important step to protect the most vulnerable as we prepare for the potential of COVID-19 reaching our community,” Dr. Escott said. “For most of us, symptoms can be mild, but if it spreads to an elderly person or someone with underlying health issues, it has the potential to be deadly. Our staff members are working 24/7 to protect all of our loved ones and it starts with focusing our efforts on those who are the most vulnerable to this virus.”
 
“On behalf of the Commission on Seniors, we are greatly concerned about older adults and the impact that COVID-19 can potentially have on their health,” said Janee Briesemeister, Chair of the City of Austin’s Commission on Seniors. “We are urging all older adults, caregivers, and service providers to follow public health safety protocols.”
 
People at higher risk of getting severe symptoms from COVID-19 should:

• Stock up on supplies
• Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others.
• When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.
• Avoid crowds as much as possible.
• Avoid cruise travel and non-essential air travel.

Austin Public Health is continuing to ask the wider community to take everyday preventative actions to stop the spread of disease, including:

• Wash your hands
• Cover sneezes and coughs with a bent elbow or tissue
• Avoid touching your face
• Stay home when you’re sick
• Don’t visit a loved one in a nursing home if you are experiencing symptoms. If you are a caretaker, be sure to establish a plan in the event you are sick.

For more information and updates, visit www.AustinTexas.gov/COVID19.

Cornyn Speaks On Current Efforts, Next Steps To Address Coronavirus

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) spoke on the Senate floor today about his efforts to respond to the Coronavirus outbreak, including Congress’ recent vote for emergency funding and the next steps to address the economic impact. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s floor remarks and video are below.

“Hospitals around the state are facing a great deal of pressure and uncertainty surrounding the virus and working to ensure that they are prepared to treat potential Coronavirus patients without impacting their normal operations is an urgent concern. Last week, I helped organize a conference call with the Texas Hospital Association and officials from Health and Human Services and the Texas Department of State Health Services to discuss some of the issues of concern to hospitals serving on the frontline all across our state.”

“Fortunately, the President signed last week an $8.3 billion funding bill to support our nation’s response to the coronavirus. It will send vital funding to treating and preventing the spread of the virus, including the purchase of masks and personal protective equipment, as well as supporting the development of a vaccine. But to the point, the funding bill will also include money for state and local communities, including San Antonio, which have been at the forefront of the battle at home,” said Senator Cornyn.

“The next big question on everyone’s mind is how this virus will impact the economy. Yesterday, we had the opportunity to discuss potential options with President Trump and Vice President Pence and Secretary Mnuchin, and we’re continuing to work to identify the best path forward,” said Senator Cornyn.

“It’s not a time to play politics. It’s a time for us to work together in the nation’s interest. Keeping the American people safe and healthy and keeping our economy strong should be a shared bipartisan goal. I hope all of our colleagues will keep that in mind, just as we did when we worked with President Obama [during the Ebola outbreak] in 2014,” said Senator Cornyn.

“To help communicate what those practices are, as well as other information, my office has created a unique webpage on my official website: cornyn.senate.gov. This will serve as a platform to provide information to all Texans who have questions about the virus,” said Senator Cornyn.

Cornyn Announces Texas Will Receive $35M In Initial Coronavirus Funding

WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) announced that Texas will receive $35 million in funding in support of their response to the coronavirus disease from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

It comes from the Emergency Funding legislation passed by Congress last week, which included money Sen. Cornyn advocated for to reimburse local communities in Texas that have responded to the virus.

The funding will go to the Texas Department of State Health Services, which will determine where the funding will be directed.

“The CDC has awarded $35 million in Texas funds to reimburse localities like San Antonio, for example, which has borne much of the responsibility for quarantining individuals at Lackland Air Force Base,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This is a start in the process to repay Texas communities for the work that they have done to help our nation mitigate the impact of the coronavirus.”

Update From The Texas Music Office

The Texas Music Office and the Office of the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Division are both closely monitoring attempts to mitigate COVID-19, and how those mitigation attempts are affecting the music industry.

Decisions regarding mass gatherings – and any potential suspension of mass gatherings permits (e.g. the City of Austin’s recent suspension and review of mass gathering permits for events with an audience capacity of 2,500 or more individuals) – will be made at the local level by the city and county officials who initially issued the mass gathering permit.

Please find information on Governor Greg Abbott’s recent briefing (see above) by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) concerning COVID-19, Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other relevant state agencies here.

Messaging from the Texas Department of State Health Services and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention may also serve as information resources. This is an unprecedented situation that has an immediate effect on the live music industry and associated Texas music businesses.

For an official statement and updates from SXSW concerning the first cancellation of their conference in 34 years, please see their statement.