"Stay Home, Work Safe" Order Extended for Central Texas

Social distancing mandate now lasts through May 8

Austin on the first day of shelter-in-place (photo by John Anderson)

As expected, the shelter-in-place orders for Austin and Travis County that were set to expire today, Monday, April 13, at midnight have been extended. The social distancing and self-isolation mandate has been the city’s chief weapon against the spread of COVID-19.

Originally issued March 24, the “Stay Home, Work Safe” orders require city and county residents to shelter in their place of residence; requires nonessential businesses and operations to cease activities at facilities unless otherwise exempted; prohibits all public and private gatherings outside of a single household or dwelling unit; and prohibits travel except for essential activities or essential work.

The city and county have made modifications to the orders, the most notable being a requirement to wear a face covering in public. (Fabric stores have been added to the list of essential businesses.)

The new orders extend through May 8. Williamson County has also extended its shelter-in-place order, through April 30.

As of April 12, the city reports 774 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Travis County and nine deaths.

Have questions about what’s an essential activity or business? Consult our Infographic Guide to Sheltering at Home.

Click here to download a high-res version.

infographic by Jason Stout

Got something to say on the subject? Send a letter to the editor.

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KEYWORDS FOR THIS POST

COVID-19, Stay Home, Work Safe, shelter in place

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