Topic: Texas Reopening

States like Florida and Texas began phased reopening plans for beaches and retail stores with occupancy limits. Gilead's stock rose following positive reports on Remdesivir's effectiveness in Chicago trials. Additionally, health officials confirmed the first US cases of pet cats testing positive for coronavirus in New York, though there was no evidence of animal-to-human transmission.

Two women were arrested in San Francisco on federal charges for using coughing as a weapon during a robbery. In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott allowed the statewide stay-at-home order to expire, initiating "Phase One" of reopening for retail, restaurants, and theaters at 25% capacity. Abbott's executive order superseded all local restrictions to ensure a uniform reopening process.

Texas continues its phased reopening, with local reports detailing the safety protocols at a South Austin gentlemen's club. The club manager describes implementing 25% capacity limits, hand clickers for counting guests, and a mandatory six-foot distance for private dances to comply with Governor Greg Abbott's orders.

Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order allowing Texas stay-at-home mandates to expire on April 30, 2020. Phase one of the state's reopening plan begins May 1, allowing retail stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and malls to operate at 25% capacity. This state-level mandate supersedes local orders, causing friction with municipal leaders in liberal cities like Austin who preferred a longer delay.