South Galveston News

Guidelines for reopening businesses have been released by Galveston County officials.

The recommendations aren't mandatory, local officials told the Daily News. Businesses that choose not to follow them won't receive penalties, but officials are stressing personal responsibility. 

“When the State of Texas allows businesses to reopen, business owners and the community at large should do their part in reducing the risk of additional COVID-19 outbreaks that would shut them down again,” the recommendations said.

In the guidelines are suggestions for all types of businesses, including bars, restaurants, retail stores and hotels. Many of the recommendations remain consistent, suggesting customers be kept 6 feet apart; that the number of people inside a venue be limited; and that businesses offer curbside pickup.

Officials also suggest cleaning stores and restaurants daily, according to the Daily News. Employees should be screened before each shift for fever or other symptoms of the coronavirus. 

The recommendations also outline the current guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which suggest everyone older than 2 years old wear a personal protective mask. 

Galveston County Judge Mark Henry said he wouldn't mandate that residents wear a mask, according to the Daily News.  

“We are expecting the reopening plan to come from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, and he has stated that it is unlikely he will allow local jurisdictions to roll out their own plans,” the county guidelines said. “If Gov. Abbott’s plan is different than expected, the county judge and mayors will meet again to amend the guidelines and develop a cohesive community plan that works for everyone.”