Governor Abbott, TDEM Move Resources Into Position As Tropical Storm Hanna Approaches Texas

Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) today pre-positioned previously rostered resources ahead of Tropical Storm Hanna's expected landfall in Texas. This tropical storm is expected to bring heavy rain, flooding, tropical storm force winds, and dangerous rip currents throughout the lower third of Texas — including the Coastal Bend and Rio Grande Valley — throughout the weekend.

Virus-weary Texas braces for Hurricane Hanna’s arrival

HOUSTON (AP) — Hurricane Hanna rumbled toward the Texas Gulf Coast on Saturday, lashing the shoreline with wind gusts, rain and storm surge, and even threatening to bring possible tornadoes to a part of the country trying to cope with a spike in coronavirus cases.

Governor Abbott, Texas Division Emergency Management moved resources into position as Hurricane Hanna approaches Texas

TEXAS, USA — Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) pre-positioned previously rostered resources ahead of Hurricane Hanna's expected landfall in Texas. 

Hurricane Hanna batters Texas coast

Hurricane Hanna has strengthened and is sustaining winds of 80 mph. The Category 1 hurricane is moving to the west at 8 mph and the center is currently about 50 miles ENE of Port Mansfield, Texas.

Governor Abbott Urges Texans Along The Coast To Prepare For Tropical Storm Hanna Following Hurricane, Storm Surge Warnings

Governor Greg Abbott today issued the following statement after the National Hurricane Center issued a Hurricane Warning and Storm Surge Warnings for several parts of the Texas Coast as Tropical Storm Hanna approaches the state:

Texas sales tax revenue declined 6.5% versus last June as state reopened for business

Texas collected $2.67 billion in state sales tax revenue in June — a 6.5% drop compared to what the state brought in the same month last year, Comptroller Glenn Hegar said Wednesday.

Austin City Limits music festival canceled for 2020 because of coronavirus

The Austin City Limits Music Festival, set to take place this fall was canceled Wednesday because of ongoing concern over the spread of the coronavirus, festival organizers said in an email Wednesday.

Officials in Texas' big cities say their public testing sites are being strained. Austin has begun to limit who can be tested.

As the new coronavirus continues to spread in Texas, leaders of some of the state's biggest cities said Monday that their testing sites were being strained, forcing them to turn away people in the middle of the day or limit who is eligible to take a test.

Coronavirus: Swift and dangerous turn in Texas cases, says governor

"Over just the past few weeks, the daily number of cases have gone from an average of about 2,000, to more than 5,000," Mr Abbott said on Sunday.

Gov. Greg Abbott orders Texas bars to close again and restaurants to reduce to 50% occupancy as coronavirus spreads

Gov. Greg Abbott on Friday took his most drastic action yet to respond to the post-reopening coronavirus surge in Texas, shutting bars back down and scaling back restaurant capacity to 50%.

Texas’ biggest public universities will require masks this fall. Enforcement will be a challenge

Determined to see students return to college in the fall, some of Texas' biggest universities are requiring face masks as a safeguard against the coronavirus. But enforcing those policies could prove difficult for institutions with tens of thousands of students and sprawling campuses.

Texas delays health guidelines for reopening schools this fall. Draft documents show few mandatory safety measures.

Texas public schools will be required to provide in-person instruction for students this fall, but state education officials have delayed releasing final public health guidelines for keeping them safe on campuses during the pandemic.

New York imposes travel restrictions on visitors from Texas, the latest coronavirus hot spot

Visitors from Texas will soon have to quarantine for 14 days if they travel to New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut, according to the three states’ governors, who also took aim at Texas’ handling of the coronavirus outbreak on Wednesday.

Coronavirus updates in Central Texas: Gov. Abbott distributes additional round of Remdesivir across Austin area

AUSTIN, Texas — KVUE is keeping you updated with the latest coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, news in the Austin area.

Scroll down for the top headlines and latest updates in KVUE's June 6 live blog.

Watch Live: Dallas PD Officers in ‘Blue for Black Lives Matter’ Rally Against Racism

Friday, the Dallas Police Department’s Latino Law Enforcement Association and Black Police Association will host a “Blue for Black Lives Matter” rally for solidarity.

WATCH: Gov. Abbott to Address TD Cristobal as Storm Accelerates Into Gulf of Mexico

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott will hold a news conference Friday afternoon to discuss hurricane preparedness and COVID-19 considerations as Tropical Depression Cristobal accelerates into the Gulf of Mexico Friday. 

Texas football players march to the Capitol over social justice issues

UT football team marches to the Texas State Capitol from UT stadium in a demonstration against racism in Austin on Thursday,

Almost all Texas businesses are allowed to open at 50% capacity, Gov. Greg Abbott says

Gov. Greg Abbott announced his third phase Wednesday of reopening Texas businesses during the coronavirus pandemic, allowing virtually all of them to operate at 50% capacity.

5,000 Texas National Guard Troops Called Up In Response To Violence, Looting

The Texas National Guard says by the end of the week, there will be 5,000 members called up statewide in response to violence and looting in Dallas and other cities in Texas.

Redeployment to increase Texas National Guard at Dallas-Fort Worth protests by 500

There were 800 Texas National Guard troops in the Dallas-Fort Worth area Wednesday to help local law enforcement keep order during protest demonstrations.

Texas Relaxes More Rules to Further Open the State Economy

Texas bars, restaurants and retailers will be allowed to serve more customers -- in some cases immediately -- under new orders from Republican Gov. Greg Abbott on Wednesday to further open the state economy amid the coronavirus pandemic.

East Texas organization gets $5 million in CARES funding to assist with electric bills

NACOGDOCHES, Texas (KTRE) - An East Texas organization has announced they have received $5 million in funding to help those who have experienced a reduction in income pay their electric bills.

Texas governor announces disaster declaration for state after George Floyd protests

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) announced a disaster declaration for the state Saturday in response to “violence” across several cities as protests emerged in response to the death of George Floyd. 

“I didn’t care if I was exposed to COVID”: Protesters’ anger outweighed their fear of getting sick

Renee Lopez has spent nearly all her time at home in recent weeks, keeping distance from friends and loved ones in the hopes of staying safe from the new coronavirus. Lopez, 58, uses a wheelchair because of a congenital joint disease, and she worries her disability could put her at greater risk of serious illness.

Watch Texas Gov. Greg Abbott address police violence protests in Texas

Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday will address the state's response to the protests sparked by the death of George Floyd, a black man who died after a white Minneapolis police officer kneeled on his neck until Floyd lost consciousness and for minutes afterward.

Coronavirus in Texas: Texas A&M System approves a plan for in-person classes during pandemic

Texas reported 1,230 more cases of the new coronavirus Friday, bringing the total number of known cases to 61,006. In the last week, the state reported an average of 1,080 new cases per day.

Coronavirus updates in Central Texas: What to know Monday

Texas: More than 64,000 cases have been reported in the state, and more than 1,600 people in Texas have died, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The department estimates more than 42,000 people have recovered from the virus.

Texas’ sales tax haul drops by biggest percentage in a decade, signaling budget crisis

AUSTIN — The coronavirus outbreak is creating a budget crisis for Texas of historic proportions, as sales tax collections for the lock-down month of April slumped by the biggest percentage – 13.2 – seen in a decade and smaller sources of revenue such as hotel occupancy and booze taxes racked up their steepest declines on record.

How safe are restaurants right now? Here’s what you need to know about dining out

In this new COVID-19 world, activities that were once routine in the public sphere now come with a level of risk that must be considered. Although many businesses have reopened in Texas, there is a divergence between permitted activities like eating out at restaurants and what medical professionals currently deem safe.

What happens if a hurricane hits Texas in the middle of a pandemic?

While many weddings, birthdays and graduations have been put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters don’t wait.   Hurricane season officially kicks off June 1, and it could be a busy one — a season even further complicated in the middle of a pandemic.

Texas to Allow Some Fans at Outdoor Pro Sports Events

AUSTIN, Texas — Texas will soon allow outdoor pro sports events to have spectators, but the numbers will be strictly limited, under a new order Thursday from Gov. Greg Abbott.

Texas will extend early voting period this fall, Gov. Greg Abbott says

Gov. Greg Abbott said Thursday he will extend the early voting period for an unspecified amount of time during the November election as concerns continue to persist around in-person voting during the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus in Texas: State Supreme Court justice tests positive for coronavirus

Texas Supreme Court Justice Debra Lehrmann is the first high-ranking state official with a known case of COVID-19, The Dallas Morning News reported Thursday.

Here’s how the coronavirus is impacting Texas’ economy

The coronavirus pandemic has steered the economy into the path of a recession. In Texas alone, more than 1.9 million people filed for unemployment relief in the last two months. The real number of people facing job losses is even higher; the Texas Workforce Commission’s website and phone lines have been overwhelmed by millions of queries daily.

UT-Austin will resume classes this fall — but students won't return to campus after Thanksgiving

University of Texas at Austin students will return for fall classes, but their time on campus will be cut short as they will not be allowed to return after the Thanksgiving break, according to an email sent to students from school officials Wednesday.

Reading days and final exams will happen remotely this fall to encourage students to stay home after Thanksgiving.

Here's what we know about Texas’ economic reopening, and what might be coming next

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued an executive order March 31 that told Texans to stay home in April except for essential activity. On May 1, that order expired, and Abbott announced his formal reopening plan, intended to be completed in phases. On Monday, gyms and fitness centers were the latest to be allowed to reopen, after earlier allowances for restaurants, retailers and salons. And at a press conference Monday afternoon, Abbott announced bars, child care centers and sports will also be allowed to reopen.

Coronavirus in Texas: How many cases, deaths and tests

The Texas Tribune is using data from the Texas Department of State Health Services to track how many people have tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Texas each day. The state data comes from local health officials, and it may not represent all cases of the disease given limited testing. Here's what we know about the daily numbers.

Optimism grows among retail landlords as Texas reopens

Since the beginning of the year, Texas has seen a massive drop in consumer confidence, an indicator tied to household consumption, expected financial prosperity and overall sentiment about how the economy is doing.

"All of the party was over": How the last oil bust changed Texas

When Kathy Whitmire ran for Houston mayor in 1981, helicopters were among the top sources of municipal strife. Residents of the Memorial neighborhood were irate over the daily noise of west Houston businesspeople who opted to fly over the gridlocked freeways for their morning commutes.

Texas Gyms Can Partially Reopen Monday

It’s been nearly two months since gyms have been able to allow customers inside, and local gyms say they're ready.

“We are excited to have everybody back. We’ve been doing a ton of cleaning and prep for this, we’re ready to have everybody in,” said Jarett Nobles, director of sales and operation for Trophy Fitness.

Houston a bright spot amid spiking Texas COVID-19 numbers

As Texas confronts a huge spike this month in new coronavirus cases, the best glimmer of hope may be in Houston.

One month after Texas Medical Center leaders proclaimed the area had begun flattening the COVID-19 curve, the rate at which disease spreads through the community, Harris and surrounding counties have firmly settled into a plateau, the number of new cases typically coming in at between 100 and 200 a day. That's a far cry from the 786 new cases the area reported April 9.

State to provide over $1 billion in pandemic food benefits to Texas families

AUSTIN, Texas (KLTV) - From the Office of Governor Greg Abbott:

Governor Greg Abbott today announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has received approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide more than $1 billion in food benefits through the federal Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) program to families with children who have temporarily lost access to free or discounted school meals due to COVID-19-related school closures.

Texas Policy Experts Offer Playbook for Post-Pandemic Recovery

AUSTIN, Texas — As state leaders begin to restart the Texas economy, policy experts from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin and the Hobby School of Public Affairs at the University of Houston have issued a nine-point playbook with their vision for rebuilding a more equitable and inclusive future Texas.

Where Austin can see Thunderbirds flyover salute of coronavirus workers

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds have released a detailed route for a salutatory flyover set for Austin and San Antonio Wednesday.

The Air Force’s demonstration squadron will fly its F-16 Fighting Falcons over the Central Texas cities to honor front-line workers and health care professionals serving in the coronavirus pandemic.

Travis County: Coronavirus deaths climb to 65; cases total 2,171

Travis County officials on Monday confirmed five new deaths linked to the coronavirus, bringing the total death toll to 65.

Officials also reported 100 new cases since Friday of COVID-19, the disease associated with the coronavirus, bringing the total known cases on Monday to 2,171.

5 things you should know about Texas pools reopening Friday

Coronavirus doesn’t appear to spread through pool water

There is no evidence the virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to people through water in pools, hot tubs, spas or play areas, according to the CDC.

Vice President Mike Pence staffer tests positive for coronavirus

WASHINGTON — An aide to Vice President Mike Pence has tested positive for coronavirus, White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said Friday.

On Thursday, news broke that President Donald Trump’s personal valet has also tested positive. A spokeswoman for Pence did not immediately respond to CNBC’s request for comment.

Events this Mother’s Day weekend in the Killeen-Fort Hood area

Families can spend time together this Mother’s Day weekend by participating in the Butterfly Drive & Hunt, showing off their art skills for the Chalk Art Community Event, or even getting active outside at a local park or trail. Check out the listing for more information on these events and plenty of virtual activities.

President Trump praises Texas governor for coronavirus efforts

WASHINGTON - Gov. Greg Abbott and other Republicans won the praise of the president at the White House.

“Gov. Abbott... when you look at the job he’s done in Texas; I rely on his judgment. And you have parts of Texas, vast parts of Texas where there’s no problem whatsoever. I mean, there’s like literally nothing. And it would be a shame to keep that closed,” President Donald Trump said.

Military hosts free COVID-19 testing in San Angelo

SAN ANGELO, Texas — The Texas Military Department hosted free COVID-19 testing in San Angelo on Wednesday.

Texas hair salons, barbershops and other beauty businesses can reopen Friday. Here are the rules they have to follow

Various beauty services — including barbershops, salons and tanning beds — got the go-ahead from Gov. Greg Abbott to reopen Friday, with new rules outlined by the governor’s task force.

Coronavirus in Texas: Dan Patrick says economy can be fully reopened in "not too distant future"

 Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick held a tele-press conference Wednesday afternoon to discuss the findings from the task force he established in early April on “recommendations for re-starting the economy” once businesses start reopening. Dallas businessman Brint Ryan, the chair of the task force, was also on the call. A few highlights:

Texas Supreme Court orders salon owner released after Gov. Greg Abbott forbids putting coronavirus scofflaws in jail

AUSTIN -- Reacting to a national brouhaha over the jailing of Dallas salon owner Shelley Luther, Gov. Greg Abbott on Thursday rewrote his previous coronavirus orders so that no violators will face jail time. And then a couple of hours later, the Texas Supreme Court ordered Luther released.

Houston council OKs $15 million rent relief program

City Council on Wednesday agreed to spend $15 million in federal relief funds to help residents affected by the economic downturn catch up on April and May rent, which council members said is imperfect but will offer critical help to some families.

Last week was the worst yet for Texas COVID-19 deaths and infections

The number of new reported COVID-19 cases and deaths last week was the largest since the pandemic began, suggesting that infections remain pervasive and much is still unknown about the size and scale of the Texas outbreak.

“Between 0 and 100%”: Texas schools weigh the odds of students returning this fall

Texas schools might start bringing students back to classrooms on staggered schedules in the fall. Or they might have some students show up at school while others continue their course work online.

At a Texas mall reopening, some antsy shoppers wore homemade masks while others called coronavirus a farce

It was 10:18 a.m. Friday, and the Barton Creek Square mall in Austin was opening in 42 minutes. John Whitton and Marina Oneill stood by their car outside wearing face masks — Oneill’s a DIY mask made by her roommate from a bra cup — waiting to buy a swimsuit (for Oneill) and shoes (for Whitton).

May 1 ushers in first phase of plan to reopen Texas

SAN ANTONIO — Texans all over the state are preparing to cautiously step back into some public spaces as the newest executive order takes effect.

Texas businesses can open Friday. Here are more questions and answers about the plan to reopen the state

Starting Friday, restaurants and many retail stores have the choice to reopen their doors to the public under an executive order announced by Gov. Greg Abbott this week.

Coronavirus in Texas: How many cases, deaths and tests

The Texas Tribune is using data from the Texas Department of State Health Services to track how many people have tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Texas each day. 

Permission granted, but shopping in Texas will be a limited experience for a while

Retailers and malls in Texas aren’t so sure you’re ready to shop.

As Texas prepares to reopen its economy on Friday, Best Buy, Macy’s, J.C. Penney and Neiman Marcus are only opening some stores, offering appointment shopping, reducing hours, limiting the number of people coming through the doors or sticking with curbside only.

Texas labor advocates call for extension of unemployment benefits to those affected by coronavirus

AUSTIN -- As some Texas workers return to work on Friday, labor advocates are calling on the Texas Workforce Commission to change its unemployment rules to continue giving benefits to high-risk workers who cannot return to work because they fear catching the coronavirus and to those caring for sick family members.

Texas Reopening Businesses on Friday With 25% Occupancy Limit

Texas on Friday will join a handful of other states taking significant steps toward reopening businesses, including restaurants, theaters and malls.

COVID-19: Map of Texas Drive-Through Testing Sites

The state of Texas' Department of State Health Services has released the map below showing a list of all drive-through testing sites in the state.

TODAY: Austin City Council poised to move millions more toward coronavirus testing, tracing and relief

Austin City Council members on Thursday will consider millions of dollars in grants and city funding to bolster coronavirus testing, contract tracing and relief efforts, with a particular emphasis on housing assistance and funds for musicians.

280,000 more Texans filed for unemployment last week as oil collapse and coronavirus precautions wallop state's economy

The number of Texans filing for unemployment went back up last week, after a dip in the number of claims the previous week.

Texas reopening state parks, retail so people can 'continue their livelihoods': Gov. Abbott

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott discussed his plan to make his state one of the first to get back to work amid the coronavirus pandemic on Wednesday.

Former Dallas Fed President Fisher says Texas has been ‘hit hard’ by the oil slump

Texas has been slammed by the collapse in oil prices and the recovery ahead for the area and the national economy as a whole will be slow, former Dallas Federal Reserve President Richard Fisher said Tuesday.

Congress reaches deal on $450 billion package to help small businesses, sources say

Congressional negotiations have reached a deal on a bill that includes hundreds of billions of dollars in new funding for small businesses hurt by the coronavirus outbreak, three sources familiar tell CNN.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announces team to restart the economy, loosens some restrictions

Gov. Greg Abbott on Friday announced initial steps to reopen the Texas economy during the coronavirus pandemic, including those that in the next week will loosen surgery restrictions at medical facilities, allow all retail stores to provide product pickups and reopen state parks.

Coronavirus in Texas: Face coverings will be mandatory in San Antonio and Dallas

Texas reported 916 more cases of the new coronavirus Friday, an increase of about 6% over the previous day, bringing the total number of known cases to 17,371. One new county reported its first case Friday; three-quarters of the state’s 254 counties have reported at least one case.

Abbott looks to reopen Texas businesses in early May, but schools will remain shuttered

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Friday announced a statewide task force of medical and economic experts to reopen the state, with early May as a target date, issuing an executive order outlining the standards that will be used to guide the reopening of private businesses.

Curious Texas: Data projects the curve is flattening in state, Dallas County

As Dallas County heads into its fifth week of sheltering in place, the number of positive cases of coronavirus in the county has soared to more than 1,900 and the death toll is at 43.

On Tuesday, Dallas County announced 10 deaths, the highest single-day count so far. Dr. Philip Huang, the county’s health director, said the county may continue to see a high number of deaths in comparison to the earlier stages of the crisis.

How Texas lawmakers are navigating the personal and professional during coronavirus pandemic

Railhead Smokehouse says it has the best barbecue in Fort Worth — beef, beans, beer and all.

But state Rep. Charlie Geren, who has owned the joint for 34 years, says he recently laid off about two-thirds of the roughly 34-person staff at the restaurant, including some who had worked there for decades, after the mainstay had to shut down its usual dine-in operations and shift to takeout only.

Report: Abbott will reveal plan to reopen Texas amid coronavirus pandemic Friday

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is expected to reveal his plan to reopen businesses in the state on Friday as the coronavirus pandemic continues to unfold.

According to KXAN-TV in Austin, a spokesman in the governor’s communications office confirmed the announcement was coming Friday, but wouldn’t confirm any other details.

Governor Abbott announces $38 Million in federal COVID-19 emergency funding for local governments

These funds come from the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Program authorized by the federal Emergency Appropriations for Coronavirus Health Response and Agency Operations Act.

Harris County ZIP codes with more COVID-19 cases closer to testing sites

A map of positive novel coronavirus cases in Harris County — released over the weekend and sorted by ZIP code — is indicative that residents closer to drive-thru testing sites are more likely to have been examined for the virus, according to city officials.

How long does it take to recover from the coronavirus?

As the number of coronavirus cases continues to climb worldwide, so does another figure: people who have recovered from COVID-19.

Here’s how Gov. Abbott can safely reopen the Texas economy

The economy can’t afford to continue to limp along indefinitely. At some point, businesses have to open again and workers must have income-producing jobs.

Gov. Abbott: Texans are saving lives

We are saving lives. That is the bottom line.

By continuing to work together while remaining apart, we will save even more lives — and turn more quickly to restarting our resilient economy to help lift every Texas family.

Austin creates $15 million relief fund; San Antonio loses $100 million in revenues

More than 160 of the state's 1,222 nursing homes, or about 13%, have at least one case of the new coronavirus, state officials said late Thursday. And 38 nursing home residents and staff members have died of COVID-19 statewide.

Texas Supreme Court delays collection of consumer debt

Creditors will have to delay collecting consumer debt until May 8, per a Thursday order from the Texas Supreme Court. Courts can issue writs of garnishments — which authorize withholding money from someone’s paycheck or bank account to settle unpaid debt — but debt collection can’t take effect until after May 7. 

Dallas rents RVs to quarantine first responders

The Dallas City Council approved $4.3 million for protective equipment, recreational vehicles and hotel rooms, the later to be used to quarantine first responders, the Dallas Morning News reported. Dallas Police have said at least six officers have tested positive for the new coronavirus; so have nine firefighters.

More Texans filed for unemployment in the last 4 weeks than all of 2019

More than 760,000 Texans have applied for unemployment insurance over the last four weeks, exceeding the roughly 700,000 people who filed for unemployment relief in Texas in all of 2019.

D-FW company will make 2 million masks a week for Texas, Gov. Abbott says

A North Texas company will make 2 million face masks a week for use within the state, helping to address a shortage of personal protective gear amid the coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Greg Abbott said.

Scammers are working overtime during the coronavirus. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself

Sadly, it seems inevitable that for every catastrophe this country faces, there are low-lifes that crawl out of the woodwork to try to take advantage.

This pandemic is no exception. But it’s particularly pernicious now when the whole country is in a collective fight for our health and so many of us are struggling through a shuttered economy.

Watch Gov. Greg Abbott discuss measures taken to address growing number of COVID-19 patients

As COVID-19 continues to spread across Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott is poised to update the public Wednesday on the state's efforts to combat the disease's spread and to provide care to those infected.

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo Reports 'Largest Single-Day' Increase In Deaths

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said 731 more people died on Monday due to the coronavirus, marking the largest single-day increase in fatalities in the state since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Texas' small-business owners tap patience and experts to navigate coronavirus relief options

Kevin Richie anticipated a busy March for his Austin-based lighting rental company. After all, it was time for the city's annual South by Southwest festival, and his company, Stage Spot, was booked to capacity.

Austin to close all city parks and trails for Easter weekend

AUSTIN, Texas — The City of Austin is closing all city parks and trails during the upcoming Easter weekend in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19.

The closure goes into effect at sunset, Thursday, April 9 and goes through sunrise, Monday, April 13.

Staying in shape while staying at home drives 'outrageous' run on exercise equipment in Houston

Eddie Cortes, a Houston lawyer, thought he had gotten a jump on the competition.

He had seen toilet paper and hand sanitizer fly off shelves as the coronavirus pandemic worsened. He thought exercise fitness equipment would be next after gyms were closed in mid-March.

Screening Checkpoints Start at Texas-Louisiana Border

In an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19 in Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott announced that people coming into the state from Louisiana would be required to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.

Sunday, Texas Department of Public Safety troopers set up checkpoints at the border of Texas and Louisiana for those coming into the state.

Child care website offering free access to Texas frontline workers

SAN ANTONIO — Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced a new initiative to help frontline workers get the child care they need for their families at home.

Dallas County extends coronavirus stay-at-home order until May 20

Dallas County residents can expect to stay home until May 20 as the fight against the coronavirus intensifies.

Commissioners on Friday gave Judge Clay Jenkins the authority to continue emergency orders that ultimately extend the state’s first stay-at-home mandate. The decision came after a tense two-hour meeting punctuated by debates over hospital readiness, the cost of the coronavirus pandemic and how best to help the region’s most vulnerable.

LIVE: AISD officials to answer questions about remote learning during COVID-19 closures

Austin Independent School District officials will hold a virtual press conference at 1 p.m. Friday to discuss the district’s continuous learning at home plan.

Dr. Lisa Goodnow, associate superintendent of academics and social and emotional learning, along with Dr. Akweta Hickman, director of special education, will answer questions during the press conference.

N. Texas doctors developed guidelines to determine what to do hospitals are overwhelmed

As physicians, we are constantly asked by both laypeople and health care professionals about the COVID-19 pandemic. Fear is in the air, especially when we are asked who will receive intensive care services if demand exceeds supply.

City of Austin establishing alternative isolation facility for first responders and healthcare workers

The City of Austin is establishing an isolation facility specifically for city workers and first responders to isolate themselves if they don’t want to risk bringing potential COVID-19 contagions into their family homes.

The number of Texans filing for unemployment has soared 1,600% in two weeks

The number of Texans applying for unemployment relief continues to climb as more workers are laid off or furloughed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Last week, 275,597 Texans applied — a 1,604% increase over the 16,176 Texans who filed in the week ending March 14.

Coronavirus in Texas 4/1: Almost 4,000 positive cases, 58 deaths reported; El Paso strengthens stay-at-home order

The total number of University of Texas at Austin students who have tested positive for the new coronavirus after a spring break trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, now stands at 44, according to KVUE-TV.

Bell County coronavirus count is now 44

As Bell County’s coronavirus cases increased by eight Tuesday — bringing the total to at least 44 — the county’s top elected official planned to update a local shelter-in-place order to match new guidelines from the state of Texas, officials said.

So far, six people have recovered, and one person has died, a Temple woman in her 80s, according to the Bell County Public Health District.

Abbott stops short of statewide shelter in place, extending social distance measures through April 30; closes schools until May 4

Gov. Greg Abbott took action Tuesday that will allow only essential services to remain open across Texas, a move that mirrors what many local governments already have done to slow the spread of novel coronavirus.

Loneliness and stress can make you more prone to COVID-19, if exposed. Here’s how to combat those feelings.

“Stay home, work safe” mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic can help slow the spread of the virus, but those guidelines also contribute to other health and wellness problems, a Rice University researcher says.

Judge Lina Hidalgo to extend Harris County stay-at-home order to April 30, as coronavirus spreads

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Tuesday will extend her stay-at-home order through April 30, as cases of novel coronavirus infections in the Houston area continue to rise, three county officials with knowledge of the plan said.

Millions of Texans finally get paid sick leave benefits to battle coronavirus — but there's a catch

Employees who can’t work because they’re sick from coronavirus, under quarantine or taking care of children will be eligible for up to two weeks of paid sick leave starting Wednesday, giving millions of Texas workers access to paid leave for the first time.

DPS: No checkpoints at Louisiana border to screen road travel during coronavirus

A day after Gov. Greg Abbott ordered travelers from Louisiana to self-quarantine for 14 days when entering Texas by road, the Department of Public Safety said there will be no checkpoints on the state’s eastern border to screen travelers from that state.

Texas Hospital Association urges Gov. Abbott to order statewide shelter in place

The state’s largest association of hospitals urged Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday to order residents to stay at home, warning of rising cases of novel coronavirus in Texas and dwindling supplies.

“The time has come for Texas to issue a statewide stay-at-home order. We urge you to implement this strict measure to prevent widespread illness in Texas,” said the letter sent by Texas Hospital Association President Ted Shaw and Texas Nurses Association CEO Cindy Zolnierek.

Dallas Adds 61 More COVID-19 Cases; Man in His 40s is the County’s 11th Fatality

Another 61 people have been confirmed to have been infected with COVID-19 in Dallas County and another person had died after contracting the virus, officials with the Dallas County Health and Human Services say.

The latest cases bring the county's total number of infected people to 549 with 11 fatalities.

Gov. Abbott expands quarantine for travelers to Texas, announces back-up housing plans for COVID-19 patients

AUSTIN (Nexstar) — Gov. Greg Abbott expanded quarantine orders for travelers heading into Texas on Sunday.

Any air traveler entering Texas from Miami, Atlanta, Detroit, Chicago, and the states of California and Washington must self-quarantine for 14 days, Abbott said.

Gov. Abbott, state health and emergency leaders release new details in Texas response to COVID-19

AUSTIN (Nexstar) — Gov. Greg Abbott’s latest update to Texans on how state leadership is responding to the coronavirus outbreak comes in the form of a Sunday press conference.

Abbott will be joined by Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Commissioner Dr. John Hellerstedt, and Chief Nim Kidd of the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM).

Texas company looking to dock stimulus money from paychecks, relieve their payroll: report

A company in Austin, Texas is looking to dock pay from workers who receive government stimulus checks, according to an anonymous employee.

With the historic $2 trillion coronavirus stimulus deal signed, Americans can look forward to receiving some economic relief during the pandemic.

As Trump floats 2-week quarantine of New York City, Gov. Cuomo calls it implausible and 'federal declaration of war’

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump said Saturday that he may order an “enforceable quarantine” for New York City and surrounding areas in New Jersey and Connecticut — prompting surprise and shock from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

Like Venice, San Antonio's River Walk is running clear during coronavirus shutdowns

San Antonio's River Walk, often dubbed the Venice of Texas, is similar to the famous Italian city's canals in another way — both are clear while residents and tourists self-isolate during the coronavirus pandemic.

DPS will screen passengers from 4 states, conduct random quarantine checks

Texas Department of Public Safety troopers on Saturday will begin screening airport passengers arriving in the state from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and New Orleans, and they plan to conduct random checks afterward to ensure they are quarantining.

City of Austin provides update on homeless services during the COVID-19 pandemic

The City of Austin released a memo Friday to provide an update on its homeless services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The memo addressed five topics – access to services, hotel and motel leasing and acquisition, homeless outreach street team, underpass and encampment cleaning, and communications.

First death related to COVID-19 confirmed in Williamson County

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) — The first death in Williamson County related to COVID-19 has been confirmed Saturday by the Williamson County and Cities Health District.

The deceased patient was a man in his 70s, according to a press release from the WCCHD.

Trump issues order to bring former troops back to active duty to assist in coronavirus response

President Trump issued an order Friday night that permits the Pentagon to bring former U.S. troops and members of the National Guard and Reserve back to active duty to augment forces already involved in the U.S. military’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, senior U.S. officials said.

Gov. Greg Abbott orders air travelers from New Orleans and around New York to self-quarantine

Gov. Greg Abbott unveiled an executive order Thursday requiring visitors flying to Texas from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and New Orleans to self-quarantine for 14 days during the coronavirus pandemic.

The order aligns Texas with federal guidance announced Wednesday that aims to contain the spread of the virus outside New York, which has become the epicenter of the outbreak in the United States. New Orleans, the biggest city in neighboring Louisiana, is seeing its own rise in cases.

Fort Hood conducts exercise for battling coronavirus

Officials at Fort Hood conducted a tabletop exercise Wednesday to further test the plans, policies and procedures in battling coronavirus at the post, a news release said.

The exercise was conducted as more measures are being taken to limit exposure of the post’s populace after one Fort Hood soldier tested positive for the virus.

Texas small business gets a lifeline: Up to $10 million with no collateral and loan forgiveness

Here’s a hopeful development in the fight against the coronavirus: Washington is throwing a lifeline to small businesses, which account for over 4.7 million jobs in Texas — almost half the total private workforce.

Nationwide, small businesses are slated to get about $350 billion from the massive relief bill winding through Congress. That translates into loans of up to $10 million per company, depending on their monthly payroll. And the entire amount can be forgiven if owners maintain their workforce for at least a few months.

Texas halts water and power disconnects amid wave of layoffs

Texas’s utility regulator halted residential water and power shutoffs Thursday after pressure from consumer advocates hoping to provide relief during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Public Utilities Commission of Texas said it will suspend shutoffs for customers who call their power or utility providers and ask for deferred payments. Electric, water and sewer providers also must suspend late fees. Under the program, customers may be able to avoid disconnects for up to six months.

‘Perfectly healthy’ Texas dad with coronavirus dies from COVID-19, family says

The novel coronavirus has claimed the life of a father of six in Texas, according to his family.

Adolph Mendez, who went by T.J., died on Thursday due to complications related to COVID-19, his family said. The New Braunfels resident was 44, the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung reported.

Killeen girl sews masks to help healthcare workers, first responders

With coronavirus cases increasing by the hour, critical supplies for first responders, like masks, are decreasing.

However, 8-year-old Kaylee Pineda of Killeen is doing her part to help meet the demand. 

Fort Hood to offer drive-thru respiratory illness screening

The Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center Respiratory Drive-Thru screening process will start at 7 a.m. Thursday and will be available from 7 a.m - 11 p.m. daily.

Texas National Guard troops could do door-to-door checkups around Dallas

Texas National Guard troops could end up going door-to-door in some Dallas neighborhoods to check on residents, Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins said.

Texas' shuttered businesses, laid-off workers and overwhelmed hospitals among beneficiaries of coronavirus relief bill

It is a testament to COVID-19's devastating impact on the American economy and to public health that members of the U.S. Senate on Wednesday night unanimously supported a bill so sweeping, so expensive, that it touches almost every part of American life and will, if it passes the U.S. House on Friday, cost three times as much as the bank bailout of 2008.

Dallas County creating temporary hospital, calls in National Guard for medical help as novel coronavirus cases top 300

The Texas county hit hardest so far by the new coronavirus is strengthening its medical response with a mobile hospital and by calling in health care workers from the National Guard, Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins said Thursday.

Austin Council approves 60-day grace period for renters in light of COVID-19

Austin City Council passed an emergency ordinance which require Austin landlords to create a 60-day grace period, after rent is due, to allow renters to come up with the funds to pay rent or set up a payment plan with their landlords before being evicted. This ordinance applies to organizations and businesses as well.

LIVE: Gov. Abbott provides update on COVID-19 response in Texas

The Capitol press conference starts at 2 p.m. and will include appearances by Texas Department of State Health Services Dr. John Hellerstedt and Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. This marks his third press briefing of the week. Hellerstedt and Kidd participated in all of the Governor’s press conferences since the outbreak reached Texas.

The military has suspended all travel, deployments, exercises for the entire force

The order affects travel for exercises, as well as deployments from combat operations in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria, in an attempt to stop the spread of coronavirus, the Pentagon announced Wednesday

“Approximately 90,000 service members slated to deploy or redeploy over the next 60 days will likely be impacted by this stop movement order,” the release said.

Coronavirus updates in Texas: State reports 995 cases and 12 deaths; unemployment claims surge

As cases of the new strain of coronavirus grow worldwide, The Texas Tribune will continue to cover developments in Texas and nationally so our audience can stay as safe and informed as possible.

Texas’ warm, humid weather could help slow spread of coronavirus, new research says

A new study, published by two scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, found that 90% of COVID-19 transmissions through Sunday occurred in areas with a temperature from 37 to 63 degrees. The virus can and continues to spread in areas outside of that temperature range, but at a slower rate, the researchers found.

Coronavirus Cases Surpass 60,000 in U.S.; Spain Death Toll Overtakes China

The number of confirmed cases of the new coronavirus in the U.S. surpassed 60,000, led by a continued surge of infections in New York, as lawmakers worked to soften the economic consequences of the pandemic that has shut down wide swaths of the country.

Record 3.28 Million File for U.S. Jobless Benefits

A record 3.28 million workers applied for unemployment benefits last week as the new coronavirus hit the U.S. economy, marking the end of a decadelong job expansion.

President Trump issues major disaster declaration for Texas amid coronavirus outbreak

President Trump issued a major disaster declaration for Texas on Wednesday amid concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, who asked for the declaration Monday, praised the move.

2 Round Rock boys receive special birthday parade during COVID-19 quarantine

Two young boys in Round Rock had to postpone their birthday parties like many people this past week because of the coronavirus. However, that didn’t stop friends and family from throwing them a special surprise.

CapMetro ridership down 62%, live Q&A Wednesday

CapMetro will host a Q&A at 1 p.m. Wednesday on its Facebook page, and it will update the public on recent developments.

Former Texas A&M star dies in New York from COVID-19

Former Texas A&M basketball player David Edwards has died in New York City from COVID-19, the coronavirus disease. Edwards’ teammate and a former coach both announced the news on social media. The Dallas Morning News was the first to report the story in Texas.

Coronavirus deaths in the US could reach peak in three weeks, epidemiologist says

A leading epidemiologist advising the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has estimated the peak of deaths in the US coronavirus pandemic will be three weeks from now, after which "most of the damage will be done," and says it may be possible to only isolate the vulnerable, allowing many back to work.

Senate to vote Wednesday on $2 trillion coronavirus bill after landmark agreement with White House

The Senate plans to vote Wednesday afternoon on a $2 trillion stimulus package that is designed to flood the U.S. economy with money in an effort to stabilize households and businesses that have been floored by the coronavirus outbreak.

Texas gets $16.2 million grant for senior citizen meal delivery assistance

Texas has received a $16.2 million federal grant to help communities provide meals for senior citizens, Gov. Greg Abbott announced Wednesday.

The grant is from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living, and it’s part of a $250 million plan outlined in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, signed into law March 18 by President Donald Trump.

How many coronavirus cases in Texas? Depends on who you ask

Gov. Greg Abbott said at a press conference that 715 people have tested positive for the new coronavirus so far. At the same time, the Texas health services department — which reports the state’s official count every day — showed only 410 people. (Later in the evening, the number was revised to match Abbott’s statements.)

Texas day cares are closing just when some parents need them more than ever

Heather Martinez now takes every child’s temperature at the door to Happy Octopus Early Education, the day care she runs from her home in Corpus Christi, following a new state regulation for child care centers issued as COVID-19 cases continue to surge across Texas.

Texas unemployment rate headed toward double digits, comptroller warns

After a low unemployment rate of 3.5% in January, Comptroller Glenn Hegar said Tuesday the unemployment rate in Texas is on track to more than double that as the new coronavirus spreads.

“It’s up to probably 9%,” Hegar said, speaking on air to the Texas Standard. “And I have no doubt that people are going to start forecasting it’s going to be slightly in the low double digits.”

LIVE: Mayor Adler answers questions during Texas Tribune’s ‘Coronavirus In Texas’ stream

The Texas Tribune is hosting a series of interactive online events related to the coronavirus in Texas, starting Wednesday with an interview with Austin Mayor Steve Adler.

Hays County to implement stay-at-home order Wednesday

SAN MARCOS (KXAN) — Hays County plans to institute a stay-at-home order Wednesday night and a curfew. Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra texted Hays County residents Tuesday night to alert them.

“I will announce a stay in place for Hays County with an 11 p.m. curfew,” Becerra wrote. “We don’t have a choice. More than half of our cases have been confirmed through community spread.”

What Exactly Does a Shelter in Place Mean?

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Over the weekend, Governor Greg Abbott said it’s up to city and county municipalities in Texas to decide on issuing a shelter-in-place order. A number of cities and counties across the state have issued one, to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

With ten confirmed cases of COVID-19 here in Nueces County, it’s not a matter of if one will be issued. According to County Judge Barbara Canales, it’s a matter of when and how long the order will last.

These Texas counties, cities have issued stay-at-home orders amid coronavirus

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced Sunday that, amid the coronavirus pandemic, he would refrain from issuing a statewide shelter-in-place order and instead would leave the decision up to city and county leaders.

Currently, the statewide recommendation instructs residents to avoid gatherings of 10 or more people in addition to an edict that closed all Texas restaurant dining rooms, bars, gyms and schools last Friday.

Another Central Texas county issues shelter in place order

CAMERON, Texas (KWTX) Milam County issued a shelter in place order Tuesday as part of the ongoing effort to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The order, like those issued earlier by the City of Waco and McLennan and Bell counties, requires nonessential businesses to close, bans nonessential travel, and requires residents to maintain a social distance of at least six feet when they do have to leave their homes.

Coronavirus hits Texas prisons with first inmate case confirmed

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice said Tuesday the 37-year-old man, who has a pre-existing respiratory condition, is being treated at the prison system’s hospital in Galveston and has been there for three days. He was in TDCJ custody a little less than a month after a conviction in Harris County on two drug possession charges.

Coronavirus updates in Texas: Quarantine ending for cruise ship evacuees at Lackland Air Force Base

• Coronavirus hits Texas prisons with first inmate case confirmed
• Quarantine ending for cruise ship evacuees at Lackland Air Force Base
• Texas’ largest counties issuing stay-at-home orders

What Will Coronavirus Testing and Treatment Cost Me?

Is coronavirus testing free?

Yes, most of the time. The newest coronavirus legislation will force health insurers and employers to cover lab tests for the new coronavirus and visits to health-care providers for screening—without any out-of-pocket charges.

Williamson County issues 'stay-at-home' order as coronavirus cases climb to 19

Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell has issued a "stay-at-home" order in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

“We know that a virus knows no boundaries, so our Williamson County cities have come together and are united in this fight. We are joining our neighboring counties to show that we stand together to provide safety in the region,” said Judge Bill Gravell.

2020 Tokyo Olympics officially postponed due to coronavirus outbreak

In an unprecedented and unavoidable move, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told reporters in Tokyo that he and International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach have agreed to postpone the 2020 Summer Olympics.

According to a tweet from the Japanese Prime Minister’s Office, the two agreed that the Games will not be canceled and “will be held by the summer of 2021.”

COVID-19 deaths in Texas up to 9; 410 confirmed cases across state

TEXAS (KLTV) - The latest update from the Texas Department of State Health Services shows nine people have died from COVID-19 in the state.

The deaths were reported as coming from six counties. Four deaths have been reported in Dallas County while Bexar, Collin, Harris, Matagorda, and Tarrant Counties each reported one death each.

Collin County Judge Issues Shelter-in-Place Order

People in Collin County are being told to stay at home Tuesday in a stay-at-home order that mirrors those of Texas' largest metro areas.

Stay home, stay safe: Austin mayor issues stay-at-home order through April 13

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin Mayor Steve Adler has issued a stay-at-home order for the city of Austin, effective 11:59 p.m. Tuesday through April 13.

The order says non-essential businesses are to close, and both public and private gatherings of any number outside a single household are prohibited.

‘Stay at home-work safe’ order issued in Houston, Harris County

HOUSTON (KETK) – Houston and Harris County have issued a “stay home-work safe” order in the midst of the spreading coronavirus.

This means that all of us should stay home, unless our jobs are essential for the health and safety to our community. Those of us whose jobs are essential to health and safety must do everything we can to maintain six feet from one another… if your work is essential you must work safe. Hence, stay home-work safe.“

HARRIS COUNTY JUDGE LINA HIDALGO

FEMA chief says Defense Production Act will be used for coronavirus test kits

The Trump administration will formally trigger the Defense Production Act Tuesday to secure coronavirus testing kits, the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency said.

"We're actually going to use the DPA for the first time today. There's some test kits we need to get our hands on," FEMA administrator Peter Gaynor told CNN in an interview. 

Texas’ largest counties are issuing stay-at-home orders as coronavirus spreads

Many of Texas’ biggest urban cities and counties are ordering residents to stay indoors.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Tuesday morning ordered Harris County residents — all 4.5 million of them

Travis, Williamson County judges to sign 'stay at home' orders Tuesday

AUSTIN, Texas - On Tuesday, Travis County and Williamson County will join the growing list of Texas counties issuing stay-at-home orders. Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt said that order will go into effect at 12am Wednesday.

Hidalgo to order ‘stay-at-home,’ not ‘shelter-in-place,’ for Harris County on Tuesday morning

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Tuesday morning is expected to order most residents to stay home except for groceries and errands, or if they work in essential industries, in order to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, county officials with direct knowledge of the plan said.

Cameron County issues shelter-in-place order

BROWNSVILLE – Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino Jr. issued an order calling for all residents to shelter-in-place. Over the weekend, four more COVID-19 cases were confirmed.

The order will go into effect for 14 days starting at 12 a.m. Wednesday, Mar. 25. It’s meant to keep people from unnecessary congregating around the clock.

Brazos County issues shelter-in-place order: here's what that means

BRYAN, Tex. (KBTX) - In a united and unprecedented move, a shelter-in-place has been ordered for Brazos County, including the cities of Bryan and College Station.

Officials announced the order during a news briefing Monday afternoon from the Brazos County Health District.

Bell County officials issue shelter in place order

BELTON, Texas (KWTX) Bell County officials late Monday afternoon issued a shelter in place order.

The order, which takes effect at one minute before midnight Monday, does not apply to essential businesses, essential activities and essential travel.

Will grocery stores open? Can I walk my dog? FAQs about Dallas County’s shelter-in-place order

Dallas County’s shelter-in-place order goes into effect at 11:59 p.m. Monday. Though the order will limit movement and force some businesses and workplaces to close, it is not a complete lockdown.

San Antonio, Bexar County residents ordered to stay home as local coronavirus cases climb

Effective at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, residents in San Antonio and the county’s suburban cities must stay home except to make essential trips, such as picking up groceries and medicine, getting gas or seeking health care.

Austin, Travis County will announce order Tuesday for everyone to stay at home

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin and Travis County are expected to issue orders Tuesday telling people to stay at home to help prevent the further spread of the coronavirus, Mayor Steve Adler told KXAN Monday.

Waco, McLennan County issue shelter in place orders

WACO, Texas (KWTX) The City of Waco Monday issued a shelter in place order, following the lead of Dallas County, which announced a similar order on Sunday and an hour later McLennan County Commissioners approved a countywide shelter in place order, as well.

Governor Abbott Requests Major Disaster Declaration from White House

Governor Greg Abbott today sent a letter to President Trump requesting a presidential declaration of a major disaster in Texas based on the continued impact of COVID-19. This action follows on the heels of a series of proactive measures, including declaring a state of disaster for all 254 Texas counties on March 13, 2020.

Fort Hood soldier tests positive for COVID-19

As announced by Bell County Health District March 23, the COVID-19 positive case identified as a male, age range 30-39, residing in Bell County, Texas, is a Soldier assigned to 3rd Cavalry Regiment.

Waco issues a shelter-in-place order; Hidalgo County implements a curfew

Waco Mayor Kyle Deaver issued a shelter-in-place order Monday, making it the first city in Texas to do so.

Coronavirus in Austin: Shelter-in-place orders being prepared for Austin, Travis County

Mayor Steve Adler said Monday that the city and Travis County are preparing shelter-in-place orders that would further restrictions on social movement to tamp down spread of the coronavirus.

1st COVID-19 Cases Confirmed in Ennis, Midlothian

Health officials in Ellis County reported two new cases of COVID-19 Sunday -- one outside of Ennis and one in Midlothian -- bringing the total number of cases in the county to five.

Coronavirus updates in Central Texas: Lee County begins testing for COVID-19

AUSTIN, Texas — KVUE is keeping you updated with the latest coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, news in the Austin area.

Surgeon General has coronavirus warning: 'This week, it's going to get bad

WASHINGTON — U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams warned Monday that the coronavirus outbreak will worsen this week and said that people across the country are not taking the threat seriously enough.

Shelter-at-home order issued for Dallas County

DALLAS - Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins has issued a shelter-at-home order for the county starting at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, March 23. It will last until at least April 3.

WATCH LIVE: Gov. Abbott provides latest on Texas’ fight against COVID-19 pandemic

Texas Governor Greg Abbott goes live with an update on the COVID-19 pandemic

'Taxpayers gave it to the government, this is what it's for:' Dallas mayor calls for economic relief

Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said he wants to see all levels of government provide some form of economic relief, since the government's money is the people's money.

Governor Abbott Announces Approval Of Emergency Designation For Small Business Disaster Loans From U.S. Small Business Administration

Governor Greg Abbott today announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has included the entire state of Texas in its Economic Injury Disaster Declaration and granted access to its Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, which will provide long-term, low-interest loans to qualifying businesses across the state.

Is your Texas driver license about to expire? You don't need to renew it, for now...

Governor Greg Abbott has waived expiration dates for driver licenses, as part of state efforts to keep people from having to visit public places.

Case of COVID-19 confirmed in smaller Central Texas county

CAMERON, Texas (KWTX) A case of the new coronavirus has been confirmed in Milam County, raising the total number of cases diagnosed in Central Texas to 16.

No details about the patient were immediately available.

Bell County officials announced a seventh case on Friday, and said it’s the first in the county involving community spread.

Thirteen cases have also been reported in McLennan County, one of which involves community spread.

One case was diagnosed in Bosque County, but the patient was not a resident of the county, officials said.

Tracking coronavirus: Interactive maps, charts show spread of COVID-19 across Houston, rest of Texas

To keep you up-to-date with the ever-growing number of COVID-19 cases in Houston, Texas and the rest of the world, the Houston Chronicle has come up with a few eye-catching, but easy-to-use interactives, based on our reporting and official data from the Texas Department of State Health Services.

New City of Austin order requires grocery stores, pharmacies to enforce social distancing

AUSTIN, Texas — On Saturday, Austin Mayor Steve Adler signed a new order, requiring retail establishments such as grocery stores, pharmacies and warehouse stores to establish controls to require social distancing, which includes a separation of 6 feet between patrons in standing in lines.

“Controls may include, but are not limited to, requiring each person to take a shopping cart or placing markers on the floor,” the order said.

Brownsville Texas

BROWNSVILLE, Texas (KVEO) – A Texas county judge said Friday that anyone who does not obey a new curfew aimed at preventing cases of coronavirus could face a hefty fine or jail time.

Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino Jr. declared a countywide curfew which is now being referred to as a “travel restriction.”

Houston Texas

 2 Harris County Sheriff’s deputies test positive for coronavirus; no plans for citywide lockdown, mayor says.

Major General Tracy Norris

Small businesses in Texas can apply for emergency federal loans to help ride out coronavirus pandemic, Abbott announces

Small businesses battered by the novel coronavirus pandemic sweeping through Texas can apply for long-term, low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Friday.

Senate GOP pushes for trillion dollar coronavirus deal by end of day

Top Senate Republican and Democratic negotiators — joined by senior Trump administration officials — kicked off talks Friday on a massive, third stimulus package to salvage the U.S. economy, with a goal by having a deal by the end of the day.

Trump allows borrowers to suspend student loan payments for two months

Student loan borrowers will be able to suspend their federal student loan payments without penalty and without accruing interest for at least 60 days, the Department of Education said Friday.

What we know about the 5 deaths, 313 coronavirus patients in Texas

There are at least 314 cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, in Texas as of March 20, with five deaths reported statewide.

Interpol arrests 121 criminals in 90 countries cashing in on coronavirus

Interpol has announced a huge takedown in 90 countries targeting crooks cashing in on the coronavirus endemic. Items seized as part of Operation Pangea XIII included 34,000 bogus surgical masks, Interpol said Thursday.

H-E-B giving pay raises to workers during COVID-19 outbreak

H-E-B is giving out “Texas Proud Pay” raises to all its hourly store, manufacturing, warehouse and transportation employees during the COVID-19 outbreak, the grocery store chain announced Friday via Twitter.

Trump halts most traffic on U.S.-Mexico border

The new restrictions will not apply to trade between the two countries, Trump said, although they will certainly add additional strain to a global economy already teetering under the weight of this crisis.

Texas Drive-in theaters, exempt from gathering ban, offer family outings during social distancing

AUSTIN (KXAN) — In this time of social distancing due to the new coronavirus, two Central Texas business owners think they have the solution for couples and families trying to get out of the house safely.

“Our whole business model is about giving people space,” said Josh Frank, owner of Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In. He opened the small theater space in east Austin a decade ago, and just opened a second location in Round Rock three weeks ago.

A state-by-state breakdown of US coronavirus cases

The first US case of the coronavirus was reported in January -- a Washington state man who had recently returned from China. Almost two months later, the country has at least 13,634 cases across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.

Coronavirus myths vs. fact: Popular theories on the novel virus debunked

As the novel coronavirus continues to spread, so does misinformation about it on the web and social media. 

Americans donate blood during coronavirus outbreak in wake of 'severe' shortage

“We've had 2,700 blood drives canceled so far and that equates to about 86,000 units of blood,” McGovern said, about the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak in the United States.

Texas nursing home asks public to send in letters, photos, and artwork for company

Heartis Senior Living Clear Lake wants you to send in pictures, letters, and artwork from you and your family. Since the COVID-19 outbreak puts the elderly at risk, those in senior centers are stuck indoors and away from their families. 

San Antonio’s coronavirus cases climb to 29, including 6 ‘community spread’

San Antonio officials said Thursday afternoon that Bexar County’s confirmed positive COVID-19 cases have risen to 29 and that six of those were transmitted via community spread.

Houston has a new drive-through coronavirus test site, but three others can't open due to shortages

A new drive-through COVID-19 testing facility opened in Houston on Thursday, but three others can't open yet because of a lack of resources, Mayor Sylvester Turner said Thursday.

Tax Day moving to July 15 amid coronavirus crisis, Mnuchin announces

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin announced Friday that the deadline for filing federal taxes will move from April 15 to July 15 -- a move to ease the burden the coronavirus outbreak has put on individuals and the economy.

In Texas, even some self employed folks can get COVID-19 relief benefits

Straight from the Texas Workforce Commission’s mouth: If your employment has been affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19), apply for benefits either online at any time using Unemployment Benefits Services or by calling TWC’s Tele-Center at 800-939-6631 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Central Time Monday through Friday.

H-E-B gives raises across Texas, Houston's first COVID-19 tests coming

People line up in their cars for free drive-thru testing for Covid-19, Thursday, March 19, 2020, at the United Memorial Medical Center off of W. Tidwell in Houston. Drivers go through a series of three tents - screening, registration and then, if they qualify, testing. Two tents are set up for each step of the process.

Coronavirus in the US: State-by-state breakdown

As of Friday morning, the novel coronavirus has infected more than 246,275 people across 151 countries and territories, resulting in over 10,000 deaths. In the U.S., all 50 states plus the District of Columbia have reported confirmed cases of COVID-19, tallying over 14,250 illnesses and at least 205 deaths.

Four Confirmed Cases of Coronavirus in Brazos County

The Brazos County health district announced Thursday morning there has been one additional positive case of COVID-19 reported to the Brazos County Health District. This brings the total count of positive cases to 4 in Brazos County.

Governor Abbott Issues Executive Orders In Accordance With Federal Guidelines To Mitigate Spread Of COVID-19 In Texas

AUSTIN - Governor Greg Abbott today announced a series of Executive Orders relating to COVID-19 preparedness and mitigation. The four orders serve to limit public gatherings and help reduce exposure for people across the state. These orders are in accordance with federal guidelines issued by the President and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and will aid in the state's efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19.

• Executive Orders
• Declaration of Public Health disaster in the State Of Texas

Coronavirus misinformation and hoax text messages are making the rounds. Here’s how to spot them

By the time the urgent text message warning that the U.S. military was about to deploy soldiers across the country to enforce a nationwide quarantine landed on Pamela Chelin’s phone this week, it had already made its way to an untold number of people.

Coronavirus.gov

We have 15 critical days to slow the spread of Coronavirus. See the latest guidelines from the President and the CDC.

CDC: Get Your Home Ready

This interim guidance is based on what is currently known about the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will update this interim guidance as needed and as additional information becomes available.

What we know about coronavirus testing in Texas

Even as demand for testing has increased, public and federal labs continue to prioritize Texans who meet certain criteria.

Texas Governor

WATCH LIVE: Texas governor Greg Abbott gives coronavirus update -- March 19, 2020

Texas Governor

Gov. Greg Abbott issued an executive order limiting public gatherings to 10 people, shutting schools, prohibiting visitors to nursing homes and retirement communities and limiting bars and restaurants to sit-down service through April 3 in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. He also recommended that non-essential state employees telework.

Texas Governor

Abbott declares state disaster, drive-thru testing in San Antonio due to COVID-19.

Texas Governor

Schools, bars, restaurant dining rooms must close temporarily due to coronavirus.