It’s time for the week that was in Texas politics with Alex Samuels, political reporter for The Texas Tribune.
This week, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott extended his previous executive order to require Texans to stay at home through the end of April unless they are involved in an essential service or business. Schools are closed until at least May 4, with many districts holding classes online. The order encourages churches and other religious organizations to hold services remotely, but does not prohibit in-person gatherings.
Another executive order suspended some Texas bail laws, and banned the release of people previously accused or convicted of violent crimes without paying cash bail.
“Civil rights attorneys then filed a motion on Wednesday, arguing that the order unconstitutionally discriminates against poor defendants, and takes away judges’ power to make individual release decisions,” Samuels says.
Among a large group of University of Texas students who traveled to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, for spring break, 44 have tested positive so far for COVID-19. They are self-isolating, and others who made the trip are being tested.
Written by Shelly Brisbin.
