SEN. KOLKHORST DISCUSSES NEW STATE RESTRICTIONS, BRENHAM AND WASHINGTON CO. DISASTER DECLARATIONS
State Senator Lois Kolkhorst has weighed in on Governor Greg Abbott’s decision to implement restrictions and bans to stop the spread of COVID-19, as well as the decisions by Brenham and Washington County government to declare local disasters.
(courtesy Office of Lois Kolkhorst)
Kolkhorst, the Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services, said the state’s declaration prevents a “patchwork quilt” approach to addressing the virus, and provides a singular guideline for all local governments to proceed with.
Kolkhorst said she was concerned when she learned about the City of Brenham and Washington County potentially moving forward with disaster declarations that would last through the end of May.
Kolkhorst said that, while there are many unknowns with this virus, the decision by the governments to limit their declarations to seven days, while adhering to Abbott’s 14-day declaration, was ultimately the right move.
Abbott’s new restrictions and bans, which go into effect at midnight tonight (Friday), limit social gatherings of more than ten people; close bars and restaurant dining areas, gyms, and massage parlors; and disallow visitors at nursing homes and retirement and long-term care facilities.
Kolkhorst said the 14-day restriction period, which lasts through midnight April 3rd, is crucial to stopping the spread of the virus. Kolkhorst said she is optimistic about increased testing opportunities coming in the near future.
Kolkhorst remains hopeful that people can go back to their normal lives sooner rather than later.
Kolkhorst also advised that the public continues to follow health information and updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at www.cdc.gov, and the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) at www.dshs.texas.gov.