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Evolve the capital projects industry though sharing of knowledge for optimized leadership, delivery and performance.

COVID-19 

RESOURCES  

As the global COVID-19 situation continues to spread rapidly, concern for member health and safety remains top of mind. This resource page continues to be updated to help our members stay informed during this rapidly evolving situation. Stay informed and Stay Safe. For COVID 19 Updates and information you need to know, please visit the CDC website.

Given current health concerns, our events are either canceled or postponed.  Please register for our emails and follow our social media for updates. 

Businesses Adapting: Workplace Operations and Policies

Firm Discounts 
    American Institute of Architects

    Additional Resources 

    Managing a Remote Workforce

    A Message From AGC, Released March 27, 2020

    AGC Survey of State DOTs Reveals Recent Changes in Project Statuses due to COVID-19 Pandemic

    An ongoing AGC survey of highway chapters and members indicated that some state DOTs have temporarily halted or delayed projects in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, while one state is considering a restart. States that have made recent changes to the status of their DOT projects include:

    • Washington State. As an addendum to his “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” proclamation, Washington Governor Jay Inslee temporarily halted all construction projects, effective immediately. The suspension broadly covers all Washington DOT projects with a limited number of exceptions.
    • Vermont. Vermont Governor Phil Scott also halted the majority of public construction projects in his state until April 15.
    • Ohio. The Ohio DOT announced a decision to defer two major new projects, collectively estimated at $192 million, to the first two quarters of FY 2021. This decision was based on the concern of a significant decrease in revenue generated from the state’s motor fuels tax due to the state’s stay at home order.
    • Pennsylvania. As of March 27, Pennsylvania is now considering restarting some of its highway projects as early as next week. The highway industry is working with PennDOT to develop a safe and efficient plan to restart projects, including steps to protect the workforce from coronavirus exposure, which will be submitted to the governor shortly. Pennsylvania’s highway projects have been shut down since March 16, in response to Governor Tom Wolf’s COVID-19 mitigation order.
    • New York. After speculation that Governor Andrew Cuomo may seek changes to the essential status of the construction industry in his state, updated guidance to his “New York on PAUSE” Executive Order clarified that essential construction includes roads, bridges, transit facilities, and utilities.

    A Message From Texas Municipal League,  Released March 30, 2020

     

    How much can Texas cities expect to receive under the federal CARES Act?

     

    Last week, the president signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”), a bill providing over $2 trillion in emergency relief funds to help mitigate the financial harm caused by the coronavirus pandemic across the country.

     

    At this stage, it is not clear exactly how much federal funding will be made available to Texas cities across the board. As part of the legislation, Congress directly allocated roughly $11.24 billion through the Coronavirus Relief Fund to Texas for use by the state and local governments. Texas cities with populations over 500,000 are eligible for direct financial assistance under this fund. Other Texas cities will presumably need to apply for pass-through grants from the remaining allocation amounts through a yet-to-be-determined process at the state agency level.

     

    The CARES Act includes other opportunities for funding critical city services as well. The National League of Cities has prepared this document, which details these funding opportunities for cities nationwide.

     

    Has there been litigation relating to how conflicts between city and county emergency orders are resolved?

     

    Yes. For example, the County Judge in the North Texas County of Collin issued a social distancing order that appeared to be lax in its directives. The Mayor of the City of McKinney, located in Collin County, issued a more stringent order. Shortly thereafter, a local realtor sued the city, claiming that the county order – even though less stringent – controls over any city order. 

     

    A district court judge will consider whether to impose a temporary restraining order prohibiting enforcement of the mayor’s order on Tuesday, March 31, pending further proceedings on the merits. The League has previously shared the relevant conflicts provisions from the Texas Disaster Act. Here they are again.

     

    Texas Government Code Section 418.103 resolves many conflicts in relation to emergency management orders:

     

    "(a) The governor shall determine which municipal corporations need emergency management programs of their own and shall recommend that they be established and maintained. The governor shall make the determinations on the basis of the municipality's disaster vulnerability and capability of response related to population size and concentration.

    (b) The emergency management program of a county must be coordinated with the emergency management programs of municipalities situated in the county but does not apply in a municipality having its own emergency management program."

     

    In some case, however, the more specific provisions of Section 418.108 may control:

     

    "(f) The county judge or the mayor of a municipality may order the evacuation of all or part of the population from a stricken or threatened area under the jurisdiction and authority of the county judge or mayor if the county judge or mayor considers the action necessary for the preservation of life or other disaster mitigation, response, or recovery.

    (g) The county judge or the mayor of a municipality may control ingress to and egress from a disaster area under the jurisdiction and authority of the county judge or mayor and control the movement of persons and the occupancy of premises in that area.

    (h) For purposes of Subsections (f) and (g): (1) the jurisdiction and authority of the county judge includes the incorporated and unincorporated areas of the county; and (2) to the extent of a conflict between decisions of the county judge and the mayor, the decision of the county judge prevails."

     

    The interplay between the provisions above and other law should also be an issue in the lawsuit. For example, the Health and Safety Code provides that:

     

    Sec. 122.005. POWERS OF TYPE A GENERAL-LAW MUNICIPALITY. 

    (a) The governing body of a Type A general-law municipality may take any action necessary or expedient to promote health or suppress disease, including actions to:

    (1) prevent the introduction of a communicable disease into the municipality, including stopping, detaining, and examining a person coming from a place that is infected or believed to be infected with a communicable disease;

    (2) establish, maintain, and regulate hospitals in the municipality or in any area within five miles of the municipal limits; or

    (3) abate any nuisance that is or may become injurious to the public health.

    (b) The governing body of a Type A general-law municipality may adopt rules:

    (1) necessary or expedient to promote health or suppress disease; or

    (2) to prevent the introduction of a communicable disease into the municipality, including quarantine rules, and may enforce those rules in the municipality and in any area within 10 miles of the municipality.

    (c) The governing body of a Type A general-law municipality may fine a person who fails or refuses to observe the orders and rules of the health authority.

     

    Sec. 122.006. POWERS OF HOME-RULE MUNICIPALITIES. A home-rule municipality may:

    (1) adopt rules to protect the health of persons in the municipality, including quarantine rules to protect the residents against communicable disease; and

    (2) provide for the establishment of quarantine stations, emergency hospitals, and other hospitals.

     

    The League will report on further developments in the case. In the meantime, each city should consult with its attorney about the interaction between city and county orders.

     

    Has the federal government issued additional guidance with respect to which jobs are classified as “critical infrastructure?”

     

    Yes. The White House issued the following information last Saturday (March 28):

     

    “Functioning critical infrastructure is imperative during the response to the COVID-19 emergency for both public health and safety, as well as community well-being. Certain critical infrastructure industries have a special responsibility in these times to continue operations. On Saturday, March 28, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) – Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) – released updated guidance on the essential critical infrastructure workforce (see Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response). The guidance and accompanying list are intended to support state, local, and industry partners in identifying the critical infrastructure sectors and the essential workers needed to maintain the services and functions Americans depend on daily and need to be able to operate resiliently during the COVID-19 pandemic response.

     

    State, local, tribal, and territorial governments are responsible for implementing and executing response activities, including decisions about access and reentry, in their communities, while the Federal Government is in a supporting role. Officials should use their own judgment in issuing implementation directives and guidance.” 

     

    Since his order on March 26, 2020 (GA-11), has Governor Abbott taken any additional action imposing quarantine on individuals traveling by plane into Texas from other states?

     

    Yes. On March 29, 2020, Governor Abbott issued an additional executive order requiring individuals traveling by plane with a point of last departure in the State of California; State of Louisiana; State of Washington; City of Atlanta, Georgia; City of Chicago, Illinois; City of Detroit, Michigan; and City of Miami, Florida to self-quarantine. This order is effective at noon on March 30th.

     

    We reported on the requirements of the quarantine in a previous Q&A, which apply to these locations as well. 

     

    Has Governor Abbott issued an order that applies to people driving into the state from a designated point of origin?

     

    Yes. On March 29, 2020, Governor Abbott issued an executive order requiring individuals traveling from any location in Louisiana to self-quarantine for 14 days. The order is effective at noon on March 30th. The requirements for quarantine, including the criminal penalties, are the same as for individuals traveling by plane, which the League reported in a previous Q&A.

     

    Who will enforce the order requiring people driving in from Louisiana to self-quarantine?

     

    The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) shall enforce this executive order along the Texas-Louisiana border.

     

    Further Updates

     

    Has the Department of Labor issued further guidance on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act?

     

    Yes. Yesterday (Sunday, March 29), the Department of Labor issued its third round of guidance on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (see questions 38-59 within the guidance). Go to the guidance document for the questions and answers.

     

    Where can I find archived issues of the TML Coronavirus Updates?

     

    TML Coronavirus Updates are archived chronologically here and by subject here.


    Latest Updates - Released March 31, 2020

    • The Department of Labor published a notice poster for employers to use to satisfy the requirement in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) that covered employers post a notice of its requirements here. The FFCRA’s paid leave provisions are effective on April 1, 2020 and apply to leave taken between April 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020. The notice must be posted by April 1, 2020 in a conspicuous place on its premises or by emailing or direct mailing the notice to employees, or by posting the notice on an employee information internal or external website. Find updated FAQs on the FFCRA here.
    • Governor Abbott waived certain statutory provisions to ensure public safety employees who contract COVID-19 during the course of their employment will be reimbursed for reasonable medical expenses related to their treatment.
    • There is now a Resident Assistance page on the City of San Antonio’s COVID-19 webpage. It includes information on food resources, family services, utilities, and more

    City of San Antonio Updates

    • There are 168 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Bexar County; of those cases, 57 were obtained through community transmission.
    • Bexar County and San Antonio park playgrounds, basketball courts, outdoor exercise equipment, skate plazas, and splash pads are closed to the public effective March 27 at 11 p.m. and through the duration of the Stay Home, Work Safe orders (currently in effect through April 9). Dog Parks, trails, bathrooms, and open green space will remain open, but people are sked to continue following CDC and local health guidelines and practice social distancing.
    • Governor Abbott waived certain Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) regulations to preserve and extend child care capacity for frontline workers. These waivers ensure that families using child care subsidized through TWC will not lose their slots while the state battles COVID-19 and secures payment to child care providers.
    • The City of San Antonio launched a self-screening tool to help residents understand if they should seek COVID-19 testing that consists of nine questions about the person’s symptoms and risk factors.
    • Bexar County Commissioners approved the use of $5.65 million to give loans and grants to small businesses that have lost money because of the COVID-19 pandemic through LiftFund. $5 million will be distributed as 0 percent interest loans to small businesses and $250,000 will be given as grants to businesses with few employees. Businesses looking to apply can find information at liftfund.com/disaster-relief-program-2020/
    • Area school districts have extended campus closures through April 24. View a list of districts here.
    •  “Stay Home, Work Safe” Order Issued
      • Effective 11:59 p.m. on March 24 through April 9, residents in San Antonio and the county’s suburban cities must stay home and only leave their homes to pick up groceries and medicine, get gas, or seek health care. Read full declaration here.
      • All businesses operating within San Antonio except exempted businesses are required to close. Businesses may continue operations necessary to maintain security, upkeep, and maintenance of premises, equipment or inventory as long as social distancing of at least six feet is maintained.
      • Restaurants may continue to provide take out and delivery services as long as social distancing of at least six feet is maintained.
    • The federal courthouse in San Antonio has put civil and criminal jury trials on hold until at least May 1
    • Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff issued an executive order that included a provision against price gouging and punishment for violators. People who raise prices on items such as toilet paper, groceries, water, pharmaceuticals, or medical equipment could face a $1,000 fine or 180 days in jail.
    • Through April 18, the City of San Antonio is under mandate for closure of bars, restaurants (exception is take-out and delivery) and entertainment venues. The declaration does not mandate the closure of retail establishments.
    • Mayor Ron Nirenberg issued a public health emergency declaration forbidding public and private gatherings of 50 people or more, and strongly advises avoiding social gatherings of 10 or more.
    • A testing site is open at the Freeman Coliseum. COVID-19 testing is available only for individuals who have been pre-approved by a doctor, first responders, health care workers and VIA bus drivers. Residents who believe they have been exposed to the virus and have symptoms, should call their physician or an urgent care clinic for an assessment, and if appropriate, a referral. Those who cannot afford a doctor’s visit may call Metro Health’s COVID-19 hotline at (210) 207-5779.
    • Area school continue to offer free curbside meals for students and families, with some districts using buses to deliver meals to hard-to-reach students.

     

    State Updates

    • There are 2,918 presumptive positive or confirmed cases of coronavirus in Texas and 39 deaths.
    • Governor Abbott issues an Executive Order mandating a 14-day quarantine for road travelers arriving in Texas from Louisiana
    • Governor Abbott issues an Executive Order prohibiting the release of individuals in custody for or with a history of offenses involving physical violence or the threat of physical violence.
    • Governor Abbott issued a proclamation regarding his prior Executive Order mandating a self-quarantine for individuals arriving from the New York Tri-State Area and New Orleans; the Executive Order now includes air travelers arriving from California, Louisiana, Washington. Atlanta. Chicago, Detroit, and Miami.
    • Governor Abbott announced the deployment of three National Guard Joint Task Force Brigades, with an initial focus on assisting drive through testing sites and bolstering the state’s healthcare infrastructure. They will operate ten general support units located throughout the state.
    • Governor Abbott waived certain licensing regulations for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, as well certain regulations allowing for an expedited licensing reactivation process for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in Texas.
    • Governor Abbott issues Executive Order mandating a self-quarantine of 14 days for travelers arriving from New York Tri-State Area and New Orleans.
    • Texas has received a $16.2 million grant from the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Administration for Community Living (ACL) to help communities provide meals for older adults. Older adults who need assistance can contact the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov/ to find services available in their community.
    • Governor Abbott authorizes restaurants to sell bulk retail product from distributors directly to consumers provided that such foods are in their original condition, packaging, or presented as received by the restaurant.
    • Governor Greg Abbott signed an Executive Order which will reinforce Texas' health care capabilities and provide additional space for hospitals to provide care to COVID-19 patients. Under this order, the Governor directed all licensed health care professionals and facilities to postpone all surgeries and procedures that are not immediately, medically necessary.
    • Governor Greg Abbott has waived several regulations to help meet Texas’ growing need for nurses as the state responds to the COVID-19 virus.
    • Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation postponing the runoff primary election (originally scheduled for May 26) until July 14
    • Governor Greg Abbott 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. Texas small businesses who believe they may be eligible for an SBA EIDL should visit www.sba.gov/disaster where they can directly apply for assistance.
    • The Texas Supreme Court issued an order halting eviction proceedings statewide until April 19, effective immediately. At the end of the period, the chief justice can choose to renew the order.
    • TABC has temporarily suspended limitations so that restaurants that hold a Mixed Beverage Permit may conduct “to-go” alcohol sales as well as alcohol deliveries to consumers https://www.tabc.state.tx.us/coronavirus/files/TemporaryWaiver.pdf
    • Governor Greg Abbott instructed the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) to waive the waiting week, for Unemployment Benefits. In addition to waiving the waiting week, TWC is exercising its authority under the Governor’s declaration of a Statewide Disaster to waive Unemployment Insurance work search requirements effective immediately. These measures support the State’s efforts to address the impact the COVID-19 virus is having on the state’s economy and its workforce.

    Federal Updates

    • There are 156,391 presumptive positive or confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United States and 2,897 deaths.
    • President Trump extended social distancing guidelines to April 30 in an effort to stop the spread of coronavirus; plans to prolong social distancing guidelines will be formalized on Tuesday.
    • President Trump signed a roughly $2 trillion economic relief plan, known as the CARES Act, in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The bill includes direct payments of $1,200 to Americans earning up to $75,000, expanded unemployment coverage, $377 billion in federally guaranteed loans to small businesses, $500 billion in aid to large corporations, $339.8 billion for programs that will go to state and local governments, and $100 billion in aid to hospitals. Here is a helpful breakdown of the package.
    • President Trump declared that a major disaster exists in Texas and ordered federal assistance to supplement state and local recovery efforts for COVID-19. The President’s action makes federal funding available for crisis counseling for affected individuals in all areas in Texas. Federal funding was also made available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency protective measures.
    • The IRS is extending the federal income tax filing deadline from April 15 to July 15 as part of a growing effort to stem the financial pain from the coronavirus pandemic
    • The Department of State raised its global travel advisory to level four, the top tier warning. It advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel.

    Additional Resources

    • The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District has opened a COVID-19 hotline for residents to ask questions about the virus. The hotline is available in English and Spanish. Residents can call 210.207.5779. Hours of operation are Monday - Friday 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
    • Texas Restaurant association has a coronavirus guidance resource page that includes information and webinars related to relief & aid, employment, and more.
    • San Antonio Food Bank: There is a list of their distribution centers and their time and place of operations on their website. https://safoodbank.org/cvrelief/
    • United Way San Antonio https://www.unitedwaysatx.org/2-1-1/
    • Information needed to file for Unemployment
      • Your last employer's business name, address and phone number
      • First and last dates (month, day and year) you worked for your last employer. If you worked for your last employer on more than one occasion, provide the most recent employment dates.
      • Number of hours worked and pay rate if you worked the week you apply for benefits (Sunday through Saturday)
      • Information about the normal wage for the job you are seeking
      • Alien Registration number (if not a U.S. citizen)
      • 2 Options for Filing:
    • Texas Workforce Commission’s Mass Claims program streamlines the unemployment benefit claims process for employers faced with either temporary or permanent layoffs: https://twc.texas.gov/businesses/mass-claims-unemployment-benefits  
    • City Utilities Information
    • Job Opportunities

    A Message From TDLR - Released March 31, 2020

    Up-to-date COVID-19 information from TDLR. Most relevant to TAS/ADA in construction, "All building inspection deadlines in the Elimination of Architectural Barriers Program are extended by 60 days for any inspections due in March, April, and May in case any of those buildings need to be used immediately as part of COVID-19 response. (§469.105, Government Code)."

    https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/covid19.htm#dat-menu

    Latest Updates - Released April 1, 2020

    • The City of San Antonio launched the COVID-19 Surveillance Dashboard which shows COVID-19 Bexar County case status by source, age group, gender & zip code (desktop & mobile views): www.sanantonio.gov/Health/News/Alerts/CoronaVirus
    • Governor Abbott has waived statutes relating to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s HOME Investments Partnership program which would allow Texas greater flexibility to use program funds to help certain Texans pay their rent.
    • The CARES Act (the $2.2 trillion coronavirus legislation passed last week) contains a provision that allows people to use the money they put away in health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts towards over-the-counter-drugs, medical supplies, and menstrual products.

    A Message From SBEDA - Released April 2, 2020

    City of San Antonio COVID-19 Website<https://sanantonio.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e673d5aa2950aac98a3b33233&id=c5f1ba62e7&e=8aa8571f73>

    Additionally, we have updated the website to include more information for local businesses and individuals seeking employment, including upcoming educational webinars.

    On Friday, April 3 at 10:00 a.m., the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will host the "Navigating the Small Business Landscape-Loans for Your Business" webinar. The webinar will provide participants the opportunity to ask questions to better understand the loans currently available from a variety of sources for our small businesses. Be sure to sign up below.

    [https://mcusercontent.com/e673d5aa2950aac98a3b33233/images/58a5c2f1-72da-4ded-83f2-434f377c0019.png]

    SIGN UP<https://sanantonio.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e673d5aa2950aac98a3b33233&id=50f10fb86c&e=8aa8571f73>

    We understand that these are difficult times for all businesses, and we are grateful for your cooperation and partnership in our collective efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We are here for you. Please email us at SBEDAinfo@sanantonio.gov if you have any questions or concerns.

    A Message From Strategic Partnerships, Inc. - Posted April 3, 2020

    https://www.spartnerships.com/newsletter/2020/tgi-4-3-2020/texas-government-insider-4-3-2020.html

    Strategic Partnerships Inc. website: www.spartnerships.com.

    A Message From AGC - Released April 6, 2020

    COVID-19 and the local construction community
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    [https://files.constantcontact.com/beb78eab001/a059494d-4a03-493a-b657-90ec739eb1b5.png]

    Together, we'll get through this.

    AGC is featuring construction companies that are doing an outstanding job of promoting health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic called, “Together, We’ll Get Through This.” Tell us what you are doing.

    [https://files.constantcontact.com/beb78eab001/7dc19efd-d4ce-4189-9540-d80fe8789910.jpg] <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001xFeAC3d7l4PcSdtDmCcOFwP0TJ78gJpfCWrUD6ayETHyItRSjpqTLMFMkiECYqeWph3aPOWo39w8NpWxSJruYqvoP04gWkJYnQHEGrXvChY7tviw7Akh2orlxn2U3sU4kuV62disTA4-KeugFas3OZhQAJiN-I9m&c=Gk0JiT-wLK4pjP81zPUf7a5732Ez5uKIkLvAWojhh9giZ2yjYfslIQ==&ch=YyzKu50Te5XOgCfUYWbszAYW3J7O5Usl49HLzdc5LsBp-2fqmMNatw==>

    Stallion Safety Solutions

    Stallion Safety Solutions CEO, Eric Garcia, makes very frequent rounds to his clients educating them on COVID-19. He is providing in-person, 6-feet apart, training instructions on how to stay safe on construction sites. As a valued AGC Safety and Health committee member, Eric is helping us meet the challenges of working safely during a very difficult time


    A Message from AIA SA - Released April 6, 2020

    Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Loan Advance
    Find out how to apply for SBA Disaster Loans

    Paycheck Protection Program Due to COVID-19 - Questions and Answers
    Paycheck Protection Program

    From the American Institute of Architects

    The AIA San Antonio Center for Architecture is currently closed with staff working remotely between the hours of 9AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday. All AIA San Antonio events have been postponed or canceled during the months of March and April. Some programs and network meetings may remain operational as webinars or conference calls. Visit the AIA San Antonio Calendar to confirm event status.

    Stay informed and Stay Safe.
    Like you, we are receiving vast amounts of information that is changing daily. For COVID 19 Updates and information you need to know, please visit the CDC website.

    Additional Updates - Released April 6,2020

    • City and Bexar County hospital officials are gearing up to care for an increasing number of COVID-19 patients. Tents and trailers have been placed outside emergency rooms, staffers are being trained and reassigned from their normal duties, and facilities are being overhauled for COVID-19 patients. At Freeman Coliseum, hundreds of cots await possible overflow from hospitals.
    • State troopers are stopping and screening travelers entering Southeast Texas from Louisiana in accordance with an executive order from Governor Abbot that calls for travelers arriving in Texas from Louisiana to self-quarantine for 14 days. While travelers are not being turned away, troopers are requiring travelers to complete a travel from.

    City of San Antonio Updates

    • There are 410 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Bexar County; of those cases, 127 were obtained through community transmission.
    • Mayor Nirenberg has issued an addendum to the Stay Home, Work Safe Orders that, among other things, closes City parks on Saturday and Sunday of Easter weekend and requires all food and essential retail businesses to limit number of people in the establishment so that social distancing may be maintained, to implement a line system where people are spaced at least 6 feet apart, and to post those guidelines in a highly visible location. View the entire addendum here.
    • Mayor Nirenberg plans to extend the city’s stay-at-home order through the end of April. Governor Abbott’s Executive Order requiring all Texans to stay home unless participating in essential activities lasts through April 30 and went into effect at 12:01 a.m. on April 2.
    • Follow Mayor Nirenberg (@nirenberg) and the City of San Antonio (@cosagov) on Facebook for comprehensive updates including the Mayor’s daily COVID-19 live update with Bexar County Judge Wolff at 6:13 p.m.
    • VIA is extending fare-free rides for all its services through April 30 and will reduce bus schedule to Saturday routes.
    • Bexar County and San Antonio park playgrounds, basketball courts, outdoor exercise equipment, skate plazas, and splash pads are closed to the public effective March 27 at 11 p.m. and through the duration of the Stay Home, Work Safe orders (currently in effect through April 9). Dog Parks, trails, bathrooms, and open green space will remain open, but people are sked to continue following CDC and local health guidelines and practice social distancing.
    • Governor Abbott waived certain Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) regulations to preserve and extend child care capacity for frontline workers. These waivers ensure that families using child care subsidized through TWC will not lose their slots while the state battles COVID-19 and secures payment to child care providers.
    • The City of San Antonio launched a self-screening tool to help residents understand if they should seek COVID-19 testing that consists of nine questions about the person’s symptoms and risk factors.
    • Bexar County Commissioners approved the use of $5.65 million to give loans and grants to small businesses that have lost money because of the COVID-19 pandemic through LiftFund. $5 million will be distributed as 0 percent interest loans to small businesses and $250,000 will be given as grants to businesses with few employees. Businesses looking to apply can find information at liftfund.com/disaster-relief-program-2020/
    • “Stay Home, Work Safe” Order Issued
      • Effective 11:59 p.m. on March 24 through April 9, residents in San Antonio and the county’s suburban cities must stay home and only leave their homes to pick up groceries and medicine, get gas, or seek health care. Read full declaration here.
      • All businesses operating within San Antonio except exempted businesses are required to close. Businesses may continue operations necessary to maintain security, upkeep, and maintenance of premises, equipment or inventory as long as social distancing of at least six feet is maintained.
      • Restaurants may continue to provide take out and delivery services as long as social distancing of at least six feet is maintained.
    • The federal courthouse in San Antonio has put civil and criminal jury trials on hold until at least May 1
    • Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff issued an executive order that included a provision against price gouging and punishment for violators. People who raise prices on items such as toilet paper, groceries, water, pharmaceuticals, or medical equipment could face a $1,000 fine or 180 days in jail.
    • Through April 18, the City of San Antonio is under mandate for closure of bars, restaurants (exception is take-out and delivery) and entertainment venues. The declaration does not mandate the closure of retail establishments.
    • Mayor Ron Nirenberg issued a public health emergency declaration forbidding public and private gatherings of 50 people or more, and strongly advises avoiding social gatherings of 10 or more.
    • A testing site is open at the Freeman Coliseum. COVID-19 testing is available only for individuals who have been pre-approved by a doctor, first responders, health care workers and VIA bus drivers. Residents who believe they have been exposed to the virus and have symptoms, should call their physician or an urgent care clinic for an assessment, and if appropriate, a referral. Those who cannot afford a doctor’s visit may call Metro Health’s COVID-19 hotline at (210) 207-5779.
    • Area school continue to offer free curbside meals for students and families, with some districts using buses to deliver meals to hard-to-reach students.

     

    State Updates

    • There are 6,851 presumptive positive or confirmed cases of coronavirus in Texas and 127 deaths.
    • Governor Abbott has waived statutes relating to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s HOME Investments Partnership program which would allow Texas greater flexibility to use program funds to help certain Texans pay their rent.
    • Texas schools will remain closed until at least May 4 per an Executive Order issued by Governor Abbott extending social distancing guidelines. The order renews and amends his previous order enforcing federal social distancing guidelines and implements essential services and activities protocols for Texas. View the order here.
    • Governor Abbott waived certain statutory provisions to ensure public safety employees who contract COVID-19 during the course of their employment will be reimbursed for reasonable medical expenses related to their treatment.
    • Governor Abbott issues an Executive Order mandating a 14-day quarantine for road travelers arriving in Texas from Louisiana
    • Governor Abbott issues an Executive Order prohibiting the release of individuals in custody for or with a history of offenses involving physical violence or the threat of physical violence.
    • Governor Abbott issued a proclamation regarding his prior Executive Order mandating a self-quarantine for individuals arriving from the New York Tri-State Area and New Orleans; the Executive Order now includes air travelers arriving from California, Louisiana, Washington. Atlanta. Chicago, Detroit, and Miami.
    • Governor Abbott announced the deployment of three National Guard Joint Task Force Brigades, with an initial focus on assisting drive through testing sites and bolstering the state’s healthcare infrastructure. They will operate ten general support units located throughout the state.
    • Governor Abbott issues Executive Order mandating a self-quarantine of 14 days for travelers arriving from New York Tri-State Area and New Orleans.
    • Texas has received a $16.2 million grant from the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Administration for Community Living (ACL) to help communities provide meals for older adults. Older adults who need assistance can contact the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov/ to find services available in their community.
    • Governor Abbott authorizes restaurants to sell bulk retail product from distributors directly to consumers provided that such foods are in their original condition, packaging, or presented as received by the restaurant.
    • Governor Greg Abbott signed an Executive Order which will reinforce Texas' health care capabilities and provide additional space for hospitals to provide care to COVID-19 patients. Under this order, the Governor directed all licensed health care professionals and facilities to postpone all surgeries and procedures that are not immediately, medically necessary.
    • Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation postponing the runoff primary election (originally scheduled for May 26) until July 14
    • Governor Greg Abbott 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. Texas small businesses who believe they may be eligible for an SBA EIDL should visit www.sba.gov/disaster where they can directly apply for assistance.
    • The Texas Supreme Court issued an order halting eviction proceedings statewide until April 19, effective immediately. At the end of the period, the chief justice can choose to renew the order.
    • TABC has temporarily suspended limitations so that restaurants that hold a Mixed Beverage Permit may conduct “to-go” alcohol sales as well as alcohol deliveries to consumers https://www.tabc.state.tx.us/coronavirus/files/TemporaryWaiver.pdf
    • Governor Greg Abbott instructed the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) to waive the waiting week, for Unemployment Benefits. In addition to waiving the waiting week, TWC is exercising its authority under the Governor’s declaration of a Statewide Disaster to waive Unemployment Insurance work search requirements effective immediately. These measures support the State’s efforts to address the impact the COVID-19 virus is having on the state’s economy and its workforce.

    Federal Updates

    • There are 328,861 presumptive positive or confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United States and 9,368 deaths.
    • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that Americans use basic “nonmedical, cloth” masks when they leave their homes. It is important to note that medical masks should be reserved for healthcare workers and that masks are not a substitute for social distancing. View the CDC’s info on homemade cloth face coverings, including instructions on how to make one at home and proper usage here.
    • The CARES Act (the $2.2 trillion coronavirus legislation passed last week) contains a provision that allows people to use the money they put away in health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts towards over-the-counter-drugs, medical supplies, and menstrual products.
    • The Department of Labor published a notice poster for employers to use to satisfy the requirement in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) that covered employers post a notice of its requirements here. The FFCRA’s paid leave provisions are effective on April 1, 2020 and apply to leave taken between April 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020. The notice must be posted by April 1, 2020 in a conspicuous place on its premises or by emailing or direct mailing the notice to employees, or by posting the notice on an employee information internal or external website. Find updated FAQs on the FFCRA here.
    • President Trump extended social distancing guidelines to April 30 in an effort to stop the spread of coronavirus; plans to prolong social distancing guidelines will be formalized on Tuesday.
    • President Trump signed a roughly $2 trillion economic relief plan, known as the CARES Act, in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The bill includes direct payments of $1,200 to Americans earning up to $75,000, expanded unemployment coverage, $377 billion in federally guaranteed loans to small businesses, $500 billion in aid to large corporations, $339.8 billion for programs that will go to state and local governments, and $100 billion in aid to hospitals. Here is a helpful breakdown of the package.
    • President Tru,391mp declared that a major disaster exists in Texas and ordered federal assistance to supplement state and local recovery efforts for COVID-19. The President’s action makes federal funding available for crisis counseling for affected individuals in all areas in Texas. Federal funding was also made available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency protective measures.
    • The IRS is extending the federal income tax filing deadline from April 15 to July 15 as part of a growing effort to stem the financial pain from the coronavirus pandemic
    • The Department of State raised its global travel advisory to level four, the top tier warning. It advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel.

    Resources

    • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s COVIDView system provides weekly updates aimed at monitoring the outbreak across the country and summarizes and interprets key indicators including information related to COVID-19 outpatient visits, emergency department visits, hospitalizations and deaths, as well as laboratory data.
    • The City of San Antonio launched the COVID-19 Surveillance Dashboard which shows COVID-19 Bexar County case status by source, age group, gender & zip code (desktop & mobile views): www.sanantonio.gov/Health/News/Alerts/CoronaVirus
    • In partnership with Governor Abbott’s Public Safety Office, the Texas network of Family and Youth Success Programs, and Favor Delivery, the Texas Restaurant Association is supporting a new initiative called the Comfort Food Care Package (CFCP) program designed to keep Texas restaurants in the business of making food and providing it to families who need it most. Restaurants interested in participating in the program can sign up on the Texas Restaurant Association website.  Families interested in utilizing the CFCP program should check this CFCP Service Provider list.
    • There is a Resident Assistance page on the City of San Antonio’s COVID-19 webpage that includes information on food resources, family services, utilities, and more.
    • The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District has opened a COVID-19 hotline for residents to ask questions about the virus. The hotline is available in English and Spanish. Residents can call 210.207.5779. Hours of operation are Monday - Friday 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
    • Texas Restaurant association has a coronavirus guidance resource page that includes information and webinars related to relief & aid, employment, and more.
    • San Antonio Food Bank: There is a list of their distribution centers and their time and place of operations on their website. https://safoodbank.org/cvrelief/
    • United Way San Antonio https://www.unitedwaysatx.org/2-1-1/
    • Information needed to file for Unemployment
      • Your last employer's business name, address and phone number
      • First and last dates (month, day and year) you worked for your last employer. If you worked for your last employer on more than one occasion, provide the most recent employment dates.
      • Number of hours worked and pay rate if you worked the week you apply for benefits (Sunday through Saturday)
      • Information about the normal wage for the job you are seeking
      • Alien Registration number (if not a U.S. citizen)
      • 2 Options for Filing:
    • Texas Workforce Commission’s Mass Claims program streamlines the unemployment benefit claims process for employers faced with either temporary or permanent layoffs: https://twc.texas.gov/businesses/mass-claims-unemployment-benefits  
    • City Utilities Information

    A Message from AGC - Released April 7, 2020


    NATIONAL SAFETY STAND-DOWN | APRIL 9, 2020

    Join AGC and your fellow construction contractors across the country on April 9, 2020 for a national safety stand-down dedicated to educating employees on preventing the spread of COVID-19. 

     

    Stand Down Resources Here

    Many San Antonio companies have already conducted safety stand downs during the pandemic but will be participating in this national show of unity on April 9. Each chapter company is encouraged to particpate in their own way and during a time that works best for them. The stand down is 10-15 minutes. There are many suggested tool box talks. During the stand-down, employers should continue to observe the current recommendations for social distancing by separating their workforce into groups of ten (10) or less people and maintaining a minimum of 6 feet between persons.


    A Message from TML-Released April 7, 2020

     

    What action did the governor take with respect to state parks and historic sites?

     

    Today (April 7, 2020), Governor Abbott directed the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and the Texas Historical Commission (THC) to close all state parks and historic sites as part of the state’s efforts to strengthen social distancing practices and prevent gatherings of large groups of people. Historic sites and state parks will close to the public starting at 5:00 PM this evening and will reopen at the direction of the Governor. 

     

    "Social distancing is our best tool to curb the spread of COVID-19 and save lives," said Governor Abbott. "The temporary closure of our state parks and historic sites will help us achieve this goal by preventing the gathering of large groups of people. I urge all Texans to continue to stay at home except for essential services as we respond to COVID-19. By following these social distance practices, we will overcome this challenge together."

     

    Does the governor’s state parks closure affect municipal parks?

     

    No. As of now, each city decides whether to close all or a portion of its parks. That’s because his existing shelter in place order provides the following:

     

    “This executive order does not prohibit people from accessing essential services or engaging in essential daily activities, such as going to the grocery store or gas station, providing or obtaining other essential services, visiting parks, hunting or fishing, or engaging in physical activity like jogging or bicycling, so long as the necessary precautions are maintained to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 and to minimize in-person contact with people who are not in the same household."

     

    Further Updates

     

    Has anyone developed simplified guidance for cities on the process for seeking FEMA reimbursement for Coronavirus expenses?

     

    Yes, the law firm of Bickerstaff Heath Delgado Acosta prepared a memo outlining the process. The memo provides an excellent summary of the FEMA reimbursement process. 

     

    Have the credit hour requirements for the Texas Municipal League Institute (TMLI) certification been modified in light of the Coronavirus?

     

    Yes, TML and the Texas Association of Mayors, Council members and Commissioners have adjusted the elected officials’ certification requirements for the 2020 TMLI award year in light of the current meeting restrictions aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19. The maximum credit for recorded training has been increased from 14 CEUs to 28 CEUs for any online or recorded training that complies with TMLI standards. The Certified Municipal Official (CMO) designation will be awarded to any elected city official who reaches 54 CEUs (instead of 72 CEUs). Two hours of open government training is still required to receive the CMO designation. 

     

    Where can I find archived issues of the TML Coronavirus Updates?

     

    TML Coronavirus Updates are archived by date here and by subject here.


    A Message from The Architect's Newspaper - Released April 9,2020

    Dear AN followers,
     
    Nearly one month into quarantine, we are all feeling very disconnected. So we wanted to take the opportunity to reconnect with all of our extended family in the AEC community. We know that every one of you is sitting in your homes contemplating the hard questions. How will our businesses survive? How will we continue to pay bills and care for family and friends? When will this all end?
     
    It’s our hope that when life does return to some kind of normality we will have learned important lessons from the experience. Perhaps, we will have learned to put less pressure on ourselves. Or how to go slower and savor the real-world connections we make with our colleagues and peers. And so we are resolved to keep on.
     
    In that spirit, we wanted to share with you what AN is doing during this time:
     

    1. We have worked relentlessly to reschedule our popular Facades+ conference series for the 2nd half of the year.  Those new dates will be posted on the Facades+ website, where you will continue to find all the latest in facades. 
       
    2. Our fantastic edit team is posting timely stories about the impact coronavirus is having on the industry, so stay tuned to archpaper.com.

      We are also happy to announce AN’s new executive editor. Samuel Medina joins our team from Metropolis magazine, where he served as editorial director for several years. We are confident that he will continue AN’s editorial mission in providing quality news, cultural reporting, and critical commentary to our engaged readership.
       
    3. Lastly, we are launching a weekly discussion series called TRADING NOTES, where industry professionals will share how they are adapting to the current moment and beyond. You can register for the first discussion, Construction in the Age of Covid-19: How are Firms Keeping Projects Online?, here. Registration is free. 
       

    Trust that we at AN value all of you, our committed readers, followers, sponsors and advertisers. Send us your stories and ideas, and be sure to participate in our online events.
     
    Connection has never been so vital, and we hope to see you soon, online and off.
     
    Diana Darling
    William Menking
    And Samuel Medina


    A Message from AIA San Antonio -Released April 10,2020


    In these difficult times, when the latest updates and newest developments are filling your inboxes, inundating the airwaves, and pressing on every days agenda — it’s important to remember the Joy that is ever present in our lives.

    Today, and every Friday from here on out, AIA San Antonio will post content that amongst all the noise that this pandemic is causing — will resonant with uplifting news for you all to enJOY.

    Be Safe!

    San Antonio walking tours to shake the coronavirus quarantine blues: Museum Reach...

    Ongoing shelter-in-place orders allow for outdoor exercising, but you can only walk the neighborhood so many times before losing your mind. So while you’ve got some extra time, break up the monotony with a trip to another part of town to take in some architecture and learn a little more about San Antonio. Continue Reading
     

    The Rivard Report introduces a community photo contest, Foto de Flor: Snap Your Surroundings...

    It is officially springtime in Texas and wildflowers have sprouted all around us. Our collective effort to flatten the curve of the novel coronavirus outbreak by staying home gives everyone very different view of spring this year. There are several ways to submit your photos! You can choose one of the following options: Tag Rivard Report on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter with the hashtag #RRSnapYourSurroundings.

    Designers across Texas have created a new project for kids of all ages...

    Learn more about Gensler's newly launched coloring book series, “Amazing Cities” and “Amazing Cities Kids!” The two-volume series is free and downloadable for print or digital coloring on a phone or tablet. Use the hashtag #GenslerAmazingCities to share their work with us. These coloring books will provide families with a source of entertainment and positivity while remaining safely in our homes.  
    Amazing Cities Kids  |  Amazing Cities Teens

    Willie Nelson to host virtual Farm Aid concert with John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews Saturday on AXS TV to aid coronavirus impact...

    Willie Nelson and his sons Lukas and Micha will host a Farm Aid benefit concert Saturday night. “At Home With Farm Aid,” an hourlong benefit for family farmers impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, will air at 7 p.m. Saturday on AXS TV and stream at farmaid.org. Donations can be made at the Farm Aid site. Continue Reading
    A Message From the American Institute of Architects-Released April 13, 2020
    COVID-19 Call for Projects
    Complete the online form detailing a COVID-19 project—or a collaborative initiative addressing the pandemic—either being planned, in progress, or completed. Include the project's location, type of construction and available images.

    The AIA San Antonio Center for Architecture is currently closed with staff working remotely between the hours of 9AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Visit the AIA San Antonio Calendar for upcoming events.


    Stay informed and Stay Safe.
    Like you, we are receiving vast amounts of information that is changing daily. For COVID 19 Updates and information you need to know, please visit the CDC website.


    Additional Updates-Released April 14, 2020

    • The San Antonio Food Bank will be holding another large-scale drive through food giveaway at the Alamodome on Friday, April 17 beginning at 10 a.m. Participants must pre-register online at safoodbank.org or call 210.431.8326.
    • Governor Greg Abbott announced that Goldman Sachs and the LiftFund, along with other community development financial institutions (CDFIs), are partnering to provide $50 million in loans to small businesses in Texas that have been affected by COVID-19 as part of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program. These loans, made through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), will primarily be used for payroll so that businesses can retain their employees and will be partially or wholly forgiven. Goldman Sachs will provide the capital and LiftFund, alongside other CDFIs, will administer the funding to qualified small businesses. Business owners can apply for a PPP loan and find more information about the program on the LiftFund website.
    • Governor Abbott issued a proclamation extending his Disaster Declaration for all Texas counties in response to COVID-19. Originally issued on March 13, the Disaster Declaration provides the state a number of resources to effectively serve Texans as the state continues to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
    • In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, the U.S. Census Bureau is adjusting 2020 Census operations in order to protect the health and safety of the American public and Census Bureau employees and to ensure a complete and accurate count of all communities. In order to ensure the completeness and accuracy of the 2020 Census, the Census Bureau is seeking statutory relief from Congress of 120 additional calendar days to deliver final apportionment counts. Under this plan, the Census Bureau would extend the window for field data collection and self-response to October 31, 2020, which will allow for apportionment counts to be delivered to the President by April 30, 2021, and redistricting data to be delivered to the states no later than July 31, 2021.

    San Antonio Updates

    • There are 794 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Bexar County and here have been 33 deaths.
    • Mayor Nirenberg will be hosting a children’s town hall on COVID-19 on Monday, April 13 at noon. Caregivers, parents, and teachers are encouraged to watch with their children and participate in the conversation.  You can submit your children’s questions in the comment section of the event page or send a 10-second video with the question to connie.swann@sanantonio.gov. The event can be viewed at sanantonio.gov/tvsa and on Facebook Live. 
    • San Antonio City Council voted Thursday to extend through April 30 an emergency order that keeps nonessential businesses closed and implements social distancing requirements for residents to stem the spread of the coronavirus. The local Stay Home, Work Safe order is in line with those of Bexar County and the State of Texas that were recently extended.
    • VIA has set a “safe capacity” maximum-passenger limit of 16 people, and once a bus reaches 16 passengers, operators will display a message in the bus destination sign that reads “At Safe Capacity.” This will let customers know that the bus is at its maximum load for that trip and they should board the next bus.
    • The City of San Antonio will begin housing older and medically fragile homeless people in a hotel (name and location not yet disclosed) as early as this week. The City has also finalized agreements with at least four other hotels and on-call facilities to accommodate a surge in people who test positive and need to be isolated.
    • Consistent with the CDC’s recommendation, San Antonio Metro Health issued an advisory recommending that all people over the age of five wear cloth face covering when in public. It is important to note that medical masks should be reserved for healthcare workers and that masks are not a substitute for social distancing.
    • The South Texas Blood & Tissue Center is participating in a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigational program for U.S. blood centers to begin collecting and distributing convalescent plasma from individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 to develop a potential Covid-19 treatment. Learn more about the program here.

     

    State Updates

    • There are 14,307 presumptive positive or confirmed cases of coronavirus in Texas and 305 deaths.
    • The Texas Workforce Commission asks that Texans in need of Unemployment Services use their area code to find their proposed call and access times. Staggering claims will help reduce frustrations and provide better access to needed services. View recommended call and access times here.
    • Governor Abbott has waived certain regulations related to restrictions on physicians-in-training (PIT) permit holders in order to increase health care capacity. With these waivers, Texas hospitals and facilities associated with Graduate Medical Education (GME) training programs will be able to utilize PIT permit holders, with proper physician oversight, in areas outside of their GME training program.
    • Governor Abbott announced a new online Frontline Child Care website to help essential workers in Texas locate child care and support child care centers. The Frontline Child Care Portal allows essential workers to search for child care facilities near them, as well as facility operating hours and the space available. The website also helps parents find other basic information about child care including health and safety information and step-by-step instructions for applying for child care financial assistance. Additionally, the website gives frontline employers guidance to assist their employees in need and provides child care centers and school districts resources to support their child care programs.
    • The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is urging applicants whose unemployment claims were previously denied to now reapply. Both the state and federal government have loosened regulations so that those who were previously rejected can now gain access to unemployment benefits.
    • The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) adopted an emergency rule to temporarily allow more nurse aides to serve residents in long-term care facilities. The rule allows nursing facilities to hire people to provide nurse aide services without having to complete a full certification program in their first four months of employment.
    • Governor Abbott has temporarily waived a series of regulations to lift certain telehealth restrictions and expand telehealth options which will allow a smart phone or any audio-visual, real-time, or two-way interactive communication system to qualify as a telecommunications technology that can be used to provide certain telehealth services. These waivers apply to speech-language pathologists and audiologists, behavior analysts, hearing instrument fitters and dispensers, and dyslexia therapists and practitioners.
    • Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) will provide more than $168 million in emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits to help Texans during the COVID-19 response. HHS received federal approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide the maximum, allowable amount of SNAP benefits to all recipients based on family size for the months of April and May.
    • Governor Abbott suspended certain statutes concerning appearance before a notary public to execute a self-proved will, a durable power of attorney, a medical power of attorney, a directive to physician, or an oath of an executor, administrator, or guardian, temporarily allowing for appearance before a notary public via videoconference when executing such documents.
    • Governor Abbott has directed the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Texas Historical Commission to close all state parks and historic sites starting at 5pm this evening until further notice.
    • Governor Abbott announced that Care.com is increasing in-home child care access for frontline workers responding to the COVID-19 emergency. As part of this initiative, they are offering 90 days of free, premium access to their services, along with specific portals for frontline workers and caregivers in Texas. Frontline workers looking for child care as well as prospective caregivers can both enroll at texasfrontline.care.com.

    Federal Updates

    • There are 579,001 presumptive positive or confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United States and 23,477 deaths.
    • The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service launched a new web tool allowing quick registration for Economic Impact Payments for those who don’t normally file a tax return. The non-filer tool provides a free and easy option designed for people who don't have a return filing obligation, including those with too little income to file. The feature is available here: www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here
    • The Internal Revenue Service announced that they deposited the first wave of Economic Impact Payments into taxpayers’ bank accounts today, with deposits continuing in the days ahead. Next week, they will be launching a “Get My Payment” web application where filers can check payment status, confirm payment type, and enter bank information for direct deposit. 
    • The National Institutes of Health is looking for up to 10,000 volunteers around the country to be a part of a study to determine how many Americans have been infected with COVID-19 and not known it. This “serosurvey” will give researchers critical information that will help them create better epidemiological models to understand how the disease spreads undetected. Click here for more information about the study.
    • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published new guidelines detailing how essential employees can go back to work if they have been exposed to people infected by the coronavirus as long as they do not feel sick and follow certain precautions.
    • Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has asked congressional leaders to commit an additional $250 billion to replenish the $350 billion Paycheck Protection Program.
    • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that Americans use basic “nonmedical, cloth” masks when they leave their homes. It is important to note that medical masks should be reserved for healthcare workers and that masks are not a substitute for social distancing. View the CDC’s info on homemade cloth face coverings, including instructions on how to make one at home and proper usage here.

    Resources

    • The City of San Antonio Department of Human Services and community partners have launched a Homeless Connections Hotline to help those experiencing homelessness. Residents can discuss their current situation & receive counseling and education on resources by calling (210) 207-1799, or by emailing HomelessOutreach@sanantonio.gov to seek help for themselves or others.
    • The San Antonio Economic Development Foundation (SAEDF) launched a new landing page, SA Real and Ready, which provides job seekers and business owners with local resources. Through the site, the SAEDF is conducting a survey to gauge the local impact of coronavirus on the business community.
    • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posted a guide with advice about how to perform essential household errands in a safe and healthy manner. Click here for the CDC’s daily updates and resources.
    • The market intelligence agency Mintel has released COVID-19 response reports here.
    • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s COVIDView system provides weekly updates aimed at monitoring the outbreak across the country and summarizes and interprets key indicators including information related to COVID-19 outpatient visits, emergency department visits, hospitalizations and deaths, as well as laboratory data.
    • The City of San Antonio launched the COVID-19 Surveillance Dashboard which shows COVID-19 Bexar County case status by source, age group, gender & zip code (desktop & mobile views): www.sanantonio.gov/Health/News/Alerts/CoronaVirus
    • In partnership with Governor Abbott’s Public Safety Office, the Texas network of Family and Youth Success Programs, and Favor Delivery, the Texas Restaurant Association is supporting a new initiative called the Comfort Food Care Package (CFCP) program designed to keep Texas restaurants in the business of making food and providing it to families who need it most. Restaurants interested in participating in the program can sign up on the Texas Restaurant Association website.  Families interested in utilizing the CFCP program should check this CFCP Service Provider list.
    • There is a Resident Assistance page on the City of San Antonio’s COVID-19 webpage that includes information on food resources, family services, utilities, and more.
    • The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District has opened a COVID-19 hotline for residents to ask questions about the virus. The hotline is available in English and Spanish. Residents can call 210.207.5779. Hours of operation are Monday - Friday 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
    • Texas Restaurant association has a coronavirus guidance resource page that includes information and webinars related to relief & aid, employment, and more.
    • San Antonio Food Bank: There is a list of their distribution centers and their time and place of operations on their website. https://safoodbank.org/cvrelief/
    • United Way San Antonio https://www.unitedwaysatx.org/2-1-1/
    • Information needed to file for Unemployment
      • Your last employer's business name, address and phone number
      • First and last dates (month, day and year) you worked for your last employer. If you worked for your last employer on more than one occasion, provide the most recent employment dates.
      • Number of hours worked and pay rate if you worked the week you apply for benefits (Sunday through Saturday)
      • Information about the normal wage for the job you are seeking
      • Alien Registration number (if not a U.S. citizen)
      • 2 Options for Filing:
    • Texas Workforce Commission’s Mass Claims program streamlines the unemployment benefit claims process for employers faced with either temporary or permanent layoffs: https://twc.texas.gov/businesses/mass-claims-unemployment-benefits  
    • City Utilities Information
    • Job Opportunities


    A Message From CPS Energy - Released April 15, 2020

    As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, I wanted to reach

     out should you our your members need any assistance.

    >

    > Please know we are fully operational, with our engineering and

    > construction teams committed to supporting customer projects. We've

    > made a few modifications to promote safe working conditions for

    > everyone, including:

    >

    > * Conducting all Utility Preliminary Plan Review (UPPR) meetings

    > via WebEx

    > * Maintaining safe social distancing on the jobsites

    > * Modifying our walk in center hours to accommodate additional

    > cleaning. The centers are currently open to serve customers 10:30

    > am- 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

    >

    >

    > Up to date information is also available via our news room at

    > https://newsroom.cpsenergy.com.

    >

    > Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or

    > need anything. I have also cc'ed Jose Trevino, our Senior Director

    > of Customer Engineering, as we work closely together to support our

    > industry associations.

    A Message From TML- Released April 21, 2020

    Urgent Updates

    We’ve seen some cities issue orders that are either more restrictive or less restrictive than the governor’s orders. For example, some cities may wish to add a business to the list of essential services, while other cities may wish to expand the availability of all services, with certain restrictions. Can they do that?

    As reported in previous updates, opinions vary. Because of that, the League’s attorneys will – as always – defer to each city attorney’s advice to their client. Yesterday’s (April 20) update stated that “a city may not define essential services differently than TDEM and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”

    Some city attorneys disagree with that black-and-white statement. Their position is that, by carefully parsing the preemptive language in GA-16, a city can – as a legal proposition – add to the TDEM/CISA list of essential services locally. That opinion is based on the following language:

    “This executive order shall supersede any conflicting order issued by local officials in response to the COVD-19 disaster, but only to the extent that such a local order restricts essential services or reopened services allowed by this executive order or allows gatherings prohibited by this executive order. I hereby suspend Sections 418.1015(b) and 418.108 of the Texas Government Code, Chapter 81, Subchapter E of the Texas Health and Safety Code, and any other relevant statutes, to the extent necessary to ensure that local officials do not impose restrictions inconsistent with this executive order, provided that local officials may enforce this executive order as well as local restrictions that are consistent with this executive order.”

    (Emphasis added.) In other words, the city attorneys argue that allowing a local business that is not on the TDEM/CISA list to re-open is not “restricting” essential services. Rather, it is expanding essential services.

    Of course, the order states that the statutes listed in it are suspended “to the extent necessary to ensure that local officials do not impose restrictions inconsistent with this executive order, provided that local officials may enforce this executive order as well as local restrictions that are consistent with this executive order.”

    (Emphasis added.) That language is difficult to decipher. If local action is “consistent” with the order, but it can’t be “inconsistent,” where does that leave cities? At a press conference this afternoon (April 21), the governor was asked about an order issued by the mayor of the City of Colleyville<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012d19hRjsfRvfL3ssPxxTLBvZ-gZ-LE8rWfT38gfyT7RTl_RLhYrSrSXgZno9VgKcuXFwR88o-bX0xZm3LZKzFGdUu-5y60W7cHV42P2vYOCWUxReh6klaq7ZmGGB0cxsM_PTFOLx-KFzXhAOuG_6vpy-ZAZvvP1aie0O0x8f8eF7hQeaxC0wMA==&c=U4Gevs9ZwDSiv-0puRUqheAoGJHHxShdDwVdyOi2rpfqjf1FJbMXZw==&ch=W1LWUzfbZ3dRxX3_r9UD1t4V1Nvd7aT5904OyfVZEylY2L8KwbJD7g==>, and whether it was congruent with his order. The Colleyville order allows, for example: (1) retail services that are not “essential services” to open and make sales through in-person appointments, so long as distancing is followed; (2) gyms, massage establishments, and salons to re-open for one-on-one appointments only, with appropriate precautions; and (3) restaurants with patios can allow outside dining, so long as distancing is followed.

    In response to the question, the governor said that:

    “I had the chance to read his [the mayor’s] proclamation. From everything that I can tell, what he wrote in the proclamation he made deference to my executive order, and was trying to write policies in a way that would parallel or be in agreement with my order. To the extent that there may be a strategy that he thinks is consistent with my order, my staff will talk to him and see what’s in agreement. If there’s something not in agreement, we will be happy to talk to him about it.”

    The governor also mentioned that his Strike Force is reviewing which types of businesses can safely reopen and will have recommendations in a few days, which will lead to a new order on April 27. (Order GA-17 states that those recommendations should be made in time for the governor to issue a new order relating to business openings by May 30.)

    What’s the bottom line? We are witnessing a rapidly-changing landscape with differing legal and political opinions. While we try to provide the basic information you need, these updates are not meant to be legal advice to any particular city. That’s why city officials should always base their ultimate decisions on the advice of their local legal counsel. That counsel is in a unique position to understand the goals of their city officials, explain the local costs and benefits of a particular course of action, and advise based on that and more local information.

    City attorneys should contact Scott Houston, TML general counsel, at 512-231-7464 or gencounsel@tml.org<mailto:gencounsel@tml.org> with questions or comments.

    Will future stimulus legislation provide money for cities?

    Despite intense lobbying from TML, the National League of Cities, and individual cities, the next round of stimulus legislation (sometimes referred to as “stimulus 3.5”) will be for around $484 billion in private relief, including $310 billion for the Small Business Administration's Paycheck Protection Program, $60 billion for small banks, credit unions, and similar financial institutions, $75 billion for hospitals, and $25 billion for testing.

    One bit of good news is that stimulus 3.5 will likely include a provision allowing cities, counties, and states to use the $150 billion allocated to states, and to cities and counties over 500,000 population, in the earlier $2 trillion CARES Act to offset some of the lost revenue in their budgets. How smaller cities can access any of those funds remains unclear at the state level.

    Many reports indicate that money for all cities might be available in a future package, and the President tweeted the following: “to State/Local Governments for lost revenues from COVID 19, much needed Infrastructure Investments for Bridges, Tunnels, Broadband, Tax Incentives for Restaurants, Entertainment, Sports, and Payroll Tax Cuts to increase Economic Growth.”

    The seven leading organizations representing state and local governments at the federal level called on Congress in a press release<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012d19hRjsfRvfL3ssPxxTLBvZ-gZ-LE8rWfT38gfyT7RTl_RLhYrSrSXgZno9VgKcaee2AJAAFEIVYCWaDpQ6gtiPtwVnc3qEKgfkoe1laP_dQEuGKcV3_zk1aOFKUIBx60fVQSlAx7QlL6E-OhhQGRFxeShllwTGfUHPt7NJ27zYxqUG3YWN2KaFjaqwRBvz2o453aiUFOw=&c=U4Gevs9ZwDSiv-0puRUqheAoGJHHxShdDwVdyOi2rpfqjf1FJbMXZw==&ch=W1LWUzfbZ3dRxX3_r9UD1t4V1Nvd7aT5904OyfVZEylY2L8KwbJD7g==> to “immediately provide robust, flexible relief” to state and local governments as part an interim relief package for the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Has the state issued additional guidance on houses of religious worship?

    Yes, the governor and attorney general issued updated joint guidance<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012d19hRjsfRvfL3ssPxxTLBvZ-gZ-LE8rWfT38gfyT7RTl_RLhYrSrSXgZno9VgKc16dAGvx2x8UYWJfkIJjfaobOz7uipjOSiScExBJJwOpHM0U6Pa1Yvr0edWT8QMJJ_uEY0CkpNvRWekR119stc48wMKzQX-jocZmFA4LtaixEI1nhByCVe4KVcWAPykiMuSOsONVkeLJ27VKwAhAoqlHAL_HQxrjYcTWRKUjiPJpzk77SOyaqXzJAGusJ3tygvnisMWJ6sSxZecQp6532cYao8IFf2mNMs1GzVV1hsWxJeg5uxdoAkhGfMj68VYQpDUPvzpHw0CVnZMnIouMS3eV_BKL53e-ZnN09CKUELKsAvqkRnrPxO8KuOMl96IlIfFTrXPd528ZoPL9x36PefmOBJHRtRIrgdpO6e68l2P4qvpLLu-D64JXGArH1dTIr8ftZCkMSFGx5VQ-PJ22Gug18SLoizmYyh1r9ntCmm2a1zWmzKBUuFnsX4GjRImAS8CUyHDaBfmeTP0wEWUbifE1YMe7M2SVJkuINpTH_xj6nZOetTkQyBBO_ootni05Vmt8iHQ-jIEOni25jEZGFCZz0XnedbdlHu3n5M8FqpyI-Dek2qKZjZElU4Ut1-o86yStWt-9hINME9tz_KqigZfXAumNKoUuelsG0IYtWEbvy5ReG0feQeiUkqjGvMkh9aHLA-f6WZtVKjdVpIQwJbPe12dzOd7j77ICsy9FOtQH0jZJrr8DfrsswGPAfXSyOaOxIvLj1MIib074LGtPwqunTughl0bdeYZ-MndOksL_mU-aVcvkfzWFFy_e37M-oMo6umfCV5TsYLrvaahqPzA==&c=U4Gevs9ZwDSiv-0puRUqheAoGJHHxShdDwVdyOi2rpfqjf1FJbMXZw==&ch=W1LWUzfbZ3dRxX3_r9UD1t4V1Nvd7aT5904OyfVZEylY2L8KwbJD7g==> regarding the effect of Order GA-16 on religious services conducted by congregations and houses of worship. According to an attorney general’s press release:

    “It recommends strategies for houses of worship to effectively slow the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) while serving their respective communities of faith.

    ‘Government and faith communities throughout Texas must work together to care for our neighbors and slow the spread of COVID-19,’ said Attorney General Paxton. ‘This updated guidance provides clear direction for houses of worship to protect the health and safety of their congregations as they continue to hold religious services, exercise religious liberty and serve their faith communities.’

    All emergency orders must comply with the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, Article I of the Texas Constitution, and the Texas Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which protect the rights of Texans to freely exercise their religion. Consistent with those protections, Executive Order GA-16 defines essential services to include ‘religious services conducted in churches, congregations, and houses of worship.’ Orders given by state or local governments, therefore, may not prohibit people from providing or obtaining those religious services. And importantly, under GA-16, local government may not close houses of worship.”

    Further Updates

    Are there any university programs open to small, rural cities to help rebuild local economies?

    Yes. The IC2 Institute is a “think-and-do-tank” at The University of Texas at Austin. IC2 formed the Regional Economic Recovery Team to help small, rural cities develop economic recovery plans. This work will begin this summer and continue throughout the year. To learn more about the institute and the recovery team, visit the IC2 Institute website<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012d19hRjsfRvfL3ssPxxTLBvZ-gZ-LE8rWfT38gfyT7RTl_RLhYrSrSXgZno9VgKccLOBdhueQznCN6t_Mtbb1u48aJRvmcXoHSPxHyUUWzs1NI3Ss01N_dG_Lf1_eutldSll56cyyiMvGaNYfNo_riUapx58sN2_RzTInx6JEk5WID8KNuaPmsIcg9mbWLo6LRDL80SiLdTIni0kW31_Nv8Yj1HjHUxfqMnU5w6Se7vFvRbOYZn2eg==&c=U4Gevs9ZwDSiv-0puRUqheAoGJHHxShdDwVdyOi2rpfqjf1FJbMXZw==&ch=W1LWUzfbZ3dRxX3_r9UD1t4V1Nvd7aT5904OyfVZEylY2L8KwbJD7g==>. If you are interested in getting more information about how your city can participate in the program, email info@ic2.utexas.edu<mailto:info@ic2.utexas.edu>.

    Where can I find archived issues of the TML Coronavirus Updates?

    TML Coronavirus Updates are archived by date here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012d19hRjsfRvfL3ssPxxTLBvZ-gZ-LE8rWfT38gfyT7RTl_RLhYrSrRQ2ui6gvPh-7aEX0f7rdhV4jswtdVrdwfDJYpcRiooTVB7lAFO5qHqtPorM71dMuMqPRvQmrqjSK3OPcAZbS0gaKRc0_lsFR7zZhZHUlzYoedw4zZPYxHk=&c=U4Gevs9ZwDSiv-0puRUqheAoGJHHxShdDwVdyOi2rpfqjf1FJbMXZw==&ch=W1LWUzfbZ3dRxX3_r9UD1t4V1Nvd7aT5904OyfVZEylY2L8KwbJD7g==> and by subject here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012d19hRjsfRvfL3ssPxxTLBvZ-gZ-LE8rWfT38gfyT7RTl_RLhYrSrYRv3PdOqxKuXY95mSDGXUt6bCUikogolO0jIhpKw4NAxBW_5jyFiYGdzPmPCTysk3cWotJkLC2_oud5HFncPdsW66CaddwhL1mMvPZKtltFzz5DA487xEOKPBMci79EGwQdDgpN3a4lgepj4f2NrOo=&c=U4Gevs9ZwDSiv-0puRUqheAoGJHHxShdDwVdyOi2rpfqjf1FJbMXZw==&ch=W1LWUzfbZ3dRxX3_r9UD1t4V1Nvd7aT5904OyfVZEylY2L8KwbJD7g==>.

    A Message From TML- Released April 22, 2020


    Urgent Updates

    Has the state issued guidance on how businesses may conduct “retail to go”?

    Yes. GA-16<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001b-u4IpV1UJj2FCNOXvwAnlARILu4-eCQPUTwVYFifDFB3pKk2DLkdfoqkil2t2PWeH8JrRc85Q9jyPSObriU1iDL9CI0nRwCwt95AIqr6q9SJuX9RTH9bJoNBxlnvSpjgQcNOWeMwMoO9o-uaqQOcTk4jeg4ObKNgAwva9o_dk3OKWU99aJ_zaPwZMNxHCC0-XSJkwmX7Xd9K43HPmQLsg2Y3_WhIrmQDlUlWARfhMoMRVY3Kp7cHw==&c=hN5rKsoO033jeILQl_1wdy4IRRXfcHNdT_vMKUHhjaIVHQBSqM4-Rg==&ch=NPAM4xdD2ywBfONjyWge1qXhK_juhMAtjdQ-XU_8QIElOvYaALRafg==> is the governor’s order that will authorize retail sales by non-essential businesses for pickup and delivery beginning on Friday, April 24. The service must be provided in strict compliance with the terms required by the Texas Department of State Health, which issued guidance<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001b-u4IpV1UJj2FCNOXvwAnlARILu4-eCQPUTwVYFifDFB3pKk2DLkdRu5DIoj2FEe6IQ4pqnmjT5wLWPSHRI8fjtAlA-IFAfYcrUKZ99H4ZTEMh1593tXr23JI5MW54xqgNrHDv4CAYmCQSQxVjgVHhxOc01AY-HP4ujJ2Gr0N3g=&c=hN5rKsoO033jeILQl_1wdy4IRRXfcHNdT_vMKUHhjaIVHQBSqM4-Rg==&ch=NPAM4xdD2ywBfONjyWge1qXhK_juhMAtjdQ-XU_8QIElOvYaALRafg==> yesterday (April 22).

    Is there any word on additional federal stimulus funding for all cities?

    Yes, and it doesn’t sound good. According to media reports, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell today (April 22) insisted that local governments should be able to "use the bankruptcy route" rather than receive aid from the federal government.  McConnell also expressed concern about adding billions more to the national debt in addition to the nearly $3 trillion Congress has already sent out the door to combat the economic and public health challenges of the pandemic.

    "My guess is their [local government’s] first choice would be for the federal government to borrow money from future generations to send it down to them now so they don't have to do that," McConnell added. "That's not something I'm going to be in favor of."

    In a press release today, titled “On Stopping Blue State Bailouts<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001b-u4IpV1UJj2FCNOXvwAnlARILu4-eCQPUTwVYFifDFB3pKk2DLkdekzzwJXB_J60VOoUnwG8b4E4oTEjv3sm4e9nwIXXtPoBYyeeb32jx1JP1fOjKauSaZTUgplBlrgTkZmfyd6n6A8UcgUOlyKF6red22EYr5GkrlBg2kaRe5cOpNUoyRjkb-E_5WuXk6fVWXK1dAbmdW3d_1UgVlCcDQD5inePOFhOoJxgYshP3VayouRJAVUAiWwQ_XELDjke2pmHiKxRmY=&c=hN5rKsoO033jeILQl_1wdy4IRRXfcHNdT_vMKUHhjaIVHQBSqM4-Rg==&ch=NPAM4xdD2ywBfONjyWge1qXhK_juhMAtjdQ-XU_8QIElOvYaALRafg==>,” he stated that:

    “I said yesterday we’re going to push the pause button here, because I think this whole business of additional assistance for state and local governments needs to be thoroughly evaluated. You raised yourself the important issue of what states have done, many of them have done to themselves with their pension programs. There’s not going to be any desire on the Republican side to bail out state pensions by borrowing money from future generations.”

    TML will continue to work closely with the National League of Cities to support additional federal funding for all cities. City officials who believe additional federal funding makes sense should make that known to Senators Cornyn<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001b-u4IpV1UJj2FCNOXvwAnlARILu4-eCQPUTwVYFifDFB3pKk2DLkdekzzwJXB_J6DmF8vghqAnHKkGouhkgbqgEmsHglj-sTPMA9pb3h31iFERuIPxayus5YwDoVO10Vt7AVjX8jBsx4ZQg3_qhhpIR2V5seAPQ3&c=hN5rKsoO033jeILQl_1wdy4IRRXfcHNdT_vMKUHhjaIVHQBSqM4-Rg==&ch=NPAM4xdD2ywBfONjyWge1qXhK_juhMAtjdQ-XU_8QIElOvYaALRafg==> and Cruz<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001b-u4IpV1UJj2FCNOXvwAnlARILu4-eCQPUTwVYFifDFB3pKk2DLkdekzzwJXB_J69NZqrZmwjAOYE97hSHqMBJw6AQ9hVnl83taJJIo39JB-jGjg4m0C-0Y6KkEyTXf-SnfDDPeq1h_0iqQxX_5dvG2clKKRVBT33n3OsZgrnUz7VSBrwTIkQQ==&c=hN5rKsoO033jeILQl_1wdy4IRRXfcHNdT_vMKUHhjaIVHQBSqM4-Rg==&ch=NPAM4xdD2ywBfONjyWge1qXhK_juhMAtjdQ-XU_8QIElOvYaALRafg==>, as well as their U.S. representative(s)<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001b-u4IpV1UJj2FCNOXvwAnlARILu4-eCQPUTwVYFifDFB3pKk2DLkdST_PWBYD3SlPQru3__5XnVgjwxt3r6XD8OP855cZwft0SATrg1SdemVzk3i9da6c9nnHg6xV2oewGhkUooQwodmzd9DyKqOasfyZRSKa1zK&c=hN5rKsoO033jeILQl_1wdy4IRRXfcHNdT_vMKUHhjaIVHQBSqM4-Rg==&ch=NPAM4xdD2ywBfONjyWge1qXhK_juhMAtjdQ-XU_8QIElOvYaALRafg==>.

    Further Updates

    Where can I find archived issues of the TML Coronavirus Updates?

    TML Coronavirus Updates are archived by date here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001b-u4IpV1UJj2FCNOXvwAnlARILu4-eCQPUTwVYFifDFB3pKk2DLkdVaxh9UsVnfaHRGRBKyZRXxLyHNqAnulWudvMyLQEa22Yfvokb777QAZH2WfPawqgH1NWlFxBvmzUrT6-8nPgS-M2y9XlZDrtc7B4lmPX6C2qcl3Js9arhs=&c=hN5rKsoO033jeILQl_1wdy4IRRXfcHNdT_vMKUHhjaIVHQBSqM4-Rg==&ch=NPAM4xdD2ywBfONjyWge1qXhK_juhMAtjdQ-XU_8QIElOvYaALRafg==> and by subject here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001b-u4IpV1UJj2FCNOXvwAnlARILu4-eCQPUTwVYFifDFB3pKk2DLkdd9mYjtPQgHCdsR5O6SBYWenvdkgJ4_xooogL_xCFHUj2zvsipazP8Vb2eN_ZyNAEjIVaJSRA6p9MoFzNrkE5iuYYQYPze2OLKkMP1YQuSOlZSMHUR_vRdHnsmbo5tFmbrt0z5PVSZd5me3d2pYto84=&c=hN5rKsoO033jeILQl_1wdy4IRRXfcHNdT_vMKUHhjaIVHQBSqM4-Rg==&ch=NPAM4xdD2ywBfONjyWge1qXhK_juhMAtjdQ-XU_8QIElOvYaALRafg==>.


    A Message from AGC - Released April 27, 2020
    null

    A Message from AGC NYS Chairman

    Barry Fries

    To all AGC NYS Members,


    I wanted to share with you the results of a recent survey undertaken by us to ascertain the impact and effects of the COVID-19 on our member’s businesses. I would like to share some of the findings for those of you that do not have the fortitude or the desire to read the entire document, which can be found here.


    The respondents to the survey were 43% building contractors and 22% highway contractors. Approximately 74 members participated in the survey.

    • Paycheck Protection Program- 32 % of members applied for and received funding. 30% have applied for and are approved for funding but were still waiting for the transfer of funds.
    • Building Contractors having project delays. 27% have 50-75% of the projects affected. 19% have 25-50% affected, 24% 10-25% affected and 14% did not have any impact.
    • For Highway contractors having project delays. 50% had no impact, 30% have 10-25% affected and 10% had 25-50% affected.
    • Workforce reduction or employee layoffs. 47% -YES, 49% NO. 
    • Supply chain interruptions. 70% YES, 25% NO.
    • Difficulty in obtaining PPE and cleaning/sanitation supplies. 82%-YES, 14% NO. The equipment issues are: Respirators-53%, Face Coverings-76%, Gloves-23% and Hand Sanitizers-82%
    • Confirmed COVID-19 cases within our workforce or on a project site, 24%-YES, 76%-NO.
    • Concerns about when NY on Pause ends:
    • Manpower availability
    • Maintaining safe work environment
    • Governmental funding for projects, current and future work
    • What will be the process of restarting
    • Economic impact on businesses
    • Concerns regarding the future of your business:
    • Impact of delays and lack of funding
    • Exempt contractors from any legal issues from employees, workers compensation claims, Owners, OSHA, etc.
    • Postponement of projects into the future
    • Recession
    • How do we estimate the effects of COVID-19 in the calculation of costs
    • Cash flow
    • Considerably fewer work opportunities and severe increase in competition
    • Assessment of AGC NYS COVID-19 resources. 85%-excellent, 10%-good, 3% fair and poor.
    • What AGC NYS resources have the members found valuable:
    • Webinars
    • Weekly Board meetings
    • Always available
    • Dissemination of the rapidly changing NYS orders
    • The behind the scenes advocacy to keep construction moving to the greatest extent possible
    • Prompt, accurate information communications
    • Notification and interpretations of the Governor’s Executive Orders
    • How can AGC NYS resources be improved
    • The majority of the responses were very favorable with the current level of actions
    • Can AGC NYS source PPE supplies in bulk


    My interpretation and analysis of the survey results indicate broad support and satisfaction with the work of AGC NYS during this horrific pandemic. The survey contains many statements from members that the efforts expended by Mike and his superb team in their communications, explanations, interpretations, behind the scene meetings, etc. were highly valued and appreciated in an environment wherein the only constant was change!


    We are living in a evolving world and society. One can only conjecture about the new definition of normal. All of us and our businesses will be impacted. In addition to the people inflicted by this disease the economic impact will be considerable. Now is the time for all of us, as Leaders, to focus on the next steps to survive . Some of us will flourish. Perhaps others will not. We all need to maintain our focus on the missions and issues that we can control. 


    Please stay safe and healthy. And, always stay smart!

    Barry Fries

    Chairman

    AGC NYS

    A Message from TML-Released April 28, 2020

    Urgent Updates

    Did the governor’s order last Monday (Executive Order GA-18, April 27) “lift” or “let expire” his “stay home/work home” order?  Can you summarize very briefly what it allows?

    No, it did not. And yes, we can! In spite of various media headlines, Executive Order GA-18<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0UsS6uDKVzPsgckgS8Oln-sMho4C4YxKvnXIDhkK-AumKwD1KyNdpx5f1fuVpFSR2bsNS_nid0MQiuvUYRxWzIVGD4lXFuilNo2cMK9x93f8wjF7toTfFeJeXq8uS_qrceI-2WmCfuX_7opUQy1WCiwUCSk-_uTz5D9Lbjf6MzlPL&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==> has similar stay home/work home language as previous orders:

    “In accordance with guidance from DSHS Commissioner Dr. Hellerstedt, and to achieve the goals established by the President to reduce the spread of COVID-19, every person in Texas shall, except where necessary to provide or obtain essential services or reopened services, minimize social gatherings and minimize in-person contact with people who are not in the same household. People over the age of 65, however, are strongly encouraged to stay at home as much as possible; to maintain appropriate distance from any member of the household who has been out of the residence in the previous 14 days; and, if leaving the home, to implement social distancing and to practice good hygiene, environmental cleanliness, and sanitation.”

    (Emphasis added.) The highlighted language means that Texans should stay home/work home, unless (while following DSHS/CDC prevention guidelines<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0UsBGPx0EZJNBor1kwZiNg-NgV5RlrQ_vCDnciW2Hns6YmpfsfSHGMiL0UJ1XX1nNgeE1dQnW2Yjp4jzw7jzp0-8U7dG7Mg0loASk6gJUCsFL&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==>):

    -Accessing essential businesses (as defined by TDEM<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0UgZdaZD1ZgKm2hn2AQED5CB8zOAYelN_5y_XpXI5mUTYB9xZtOro1dlvk_aLuyh35rWGvENj2KErW003j0pcbft4LSf-76beeydpqAoI_UYb_lsNkGKk5VY=&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==> and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0UsBGPx0EZJNBrmuKmhzImS6XloG-fJvogJQW3Ih-h2UdG6Y34iqGAFnBUDjg7N_MI3sd7K5sO25p0QaPsMl-eD1HbV054o9vLdRaNawXqv4gRqup2N1_U2qNVg42yUqDlDC7sPPRB2O7up_7Je0sdE1iVK4H-mpmAeBAwvemB4aSH23718cVCgXDPwMEfJaAhu_Q0eIylRjGoHCzq5jGXb557d9gnoJkXP6FddQBGP8vYRqAB-v9DwU=&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==>).
    -Starting on May 1, accessing “re-opened services” as listed in the order.

    In addition, the order allows (while following DSHS/CDC prevention guidelines<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0UsBGPx0EZJNBor1kwZiNg-NgV5RlrQ_vCDnciW2Hns6YmpfsfSHGMiL0UJ1XX1nNgeE1dQnW2Yjp4jzw7jzp0-8U7dG7Mg0loASk6gJUCsFL&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==>):

    -Attending religious services according to attorney general’s guidelines<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-ffa1erYM7NWPG22L3D3kIOJ2Vk_pc6oDic8Ne_o8gZHoNE-GE8teBDlKhbjHsrYyK8pQNcTXasl4aylHiDKNDoM0CKh6YO34BSbeEJHHH492K3ZBR-wqUFK2_eP5wR-5xwUmLKKIRoyjSoMbPcSK7wb5C2r0pd-4JmuizvxLIrN0kSS0psi6X3WlHCPhO28jxDS7b9tgxwr2lJV53JeWdHnd00oqXC9GC2mwOoS5vlHwSMCZkPqOs-foW01_EIoao7C5QTtmDrzTJoPu9iDn4RncfTqBiwJ-_DUZmrePFTmNeItOfq5C6trAmzEFItVIsm-ubm_n89mbOG9_2MGWT48GwfoaSmM-kHNF_C_BHGYn3ohRaMilwLcBgwzbche3l3vYtoyMHSlsxTNq90fjC2F-6gpRR5HwEPdXwxLTgYRNQ4sCz9v1pF2tV7rzpucRYkF4cU_nBWZeDoRgP9P1c3lw5exM5Nrl7h2bgqHN2znqD6-DTN38euRi_4SwPiN9PFukBR6EiPmiteayuBv9LovL1gi8AVK&c=x3ek-TOp4plsgFG2hBv6RdbyfKld43TS7xJaPCy2lURREK6zUx--mA==&ch=Qcf77Jxjb6CnIeviIXHiwnQG-etWRJ2qyj_B6h9bmSRzFxfrLX-DUw==>.
    -Participating in “essential daily activities,” such as going to the grocery store or gas station, providing or obtaining other essential or re-opened services, visiting parks, hunting or fishing, or engaging in physical activity like jogging, bicycling, or other outdoor sports.

    (Editor’s note: The above is meant to be a simplified answer, which is difficult considering that GA-18 is a complicated order. The April 27 update<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0Un8Oyx6dJY-AENcn7BOUvZ8FmjH8AxmmD7QSLUb2O-E8uBefOJCmlP-LEDqHoKFpCboTTZqE4vsmGJoI8uvB_SBMHpmVAZmEQkCVo2ZKrJOkNngrXzyCbFg=&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==> explains it in more detail.)

    What activities does Executive Order GA-18 expressly prohibit?

    Executive Order GA-18<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0UsS6uDKVzPsgckgS8Oln-sMho4C4YxKvnXIDhkK-AumKwD1KyNdpx5f1fuVpFSR2bsNS_nid0MQiuvUYRxWzIVGD4lXFuilNo2cMK9x93f8wjF7toTfFeJeXq8uS_qrceI-2WmCfuX_7opUQy1WCiwUCSk-_uTz5D9Lbjf6MzlPL&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==> provides that:

    -People shall avoid visiting bars, gyms, public swimming pools, interactive amusement venues such as bowling alleys and video arcades, massage establishments, tattoo studios, piercing studios, or cosmetology salons.

    -In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, people shall not visit nursing homes, state supported living centers, assisted living facilities, or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance as determined through guidance from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).

    -In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, schools shall remain temporarily closed to in-person classroom attendance by students and shall not recommence before the end of the 2019-2020 school year.

    In addition, the superseding language in the order provides, in part, that:

    “This executive order shall supersede any conflicting order issued by local officials in response to the COVID-19 disaster, but only to the extent that such a local order restricts essential services or reopened services allowed by this executive order, allows gatherings prohibited by this executive order, or expands the list of essential services or the list or scope of reopened services as set forth in this executive order.”

    What does that mean? Opinions vary substantially, but it would seem to indicate that a city’s order may not restrict how a business classified as essential or expressly re-opened by the order operates any more than the order (which incorporated DSHS/CDC prevention guidelines) does. And it would seem to indicate that a city order may not open a business that is not classified as essential, re-opened, or part of an essential activity.

    (Editor’s note: The above is meant to be a simplified answer, which is difficult considering that GA-18 is a complicated order. The April 27 update<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0Un8Oyx6dJY-AENcn7BOUvZ8FmjH8AxmmD7QSLUb2O-E8uBefOJCmlP-LEDqHoKFpCboTTZqE4vsmGJoI8uvB_SBMHpmVAZmEQkCVo2ZKrJOkNngrXzyCbFg=&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==> explains it in more detail.)

    Should a city continue its disaster declaration in light of Executive Order GA-18? What about local disaster orders?

    Whether to declare a local state of disaster related to the virus is up to each mayor in the first instance, with the extension of the declaration beyond seven days requiring city council approval. Whether to issue any particular order is a local decision as well.

    What about FEMA or other reimbursement? Although the President and the governor have issued an emergency declaration and a state of disaster, respectively, state regulations provide that the mayor must have declared a local state of disaster before a city may request disaster recovery assistance. 37 TAC §7.41 (“Requests for state or federal recovery assistance must be initiated by local government. The chief elected official of the jurisdiction must have declared a local State of Disaster before requesting disaster recovery assistance.”).

    Thus, if a city anticipates requesting financial assistance in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the safest course is for a mayor to at least declare a state of local disaster and submit it to the governor, via the Texas Division of Emergency Management by email at soc@tdem.texas.gov or fax at 512-424-5587.

    In light of Executive Order GA-18, some cities have decided to stop issuing separate, complex local orders and ordinances. Instead, they will reference the governor’s current order and provide for enforcement (in addition to the Class B misdemeanor penalties in the Texas Disaster Act) through a Class C misdemeanor. We must stress that, because of the lack of clarity in GA-18’s superseding/preemption language, no action should be taken without consulting with local legal counsel.

    Here’s a possible example of a city’s ordinance language that simply incorporates – and allows for enforcement of, a governor’s order:

    “That effective immediately, and continuing through May 15, 2020, the City hereby adopts the provisions of Executive Orders GA-18 and GA-19 issued by Governor Greg Abbott on April 27, 2020. The provisions of GA-18 and GA-19 are incorporated herein by reference as if written word for word. For clarity, nothing in the ordinance is intended to impact the provisions related to the continuation of the local state of disaster as specified in Ordinance No. _______.

    Any person, firm, corporation, agent, or employee thereof who violates any of the provisions of this ordinance commits an offense that is considered a class C misdemeanor and each day the violation continues shall be a separate offense punishable by a fine of not more than $500. A culpable mental state is not required for the commission of an offense under this ordinance and need not be proved. The penalty provided for in this ordinance is in addition to any other remedies that the City may have under City ordinances and state law.”

    Again, some mayors and city councils may wish to do more or less, and we defer absolutely to their choice.

    What is the status of the suspended Open Meetings Act provisions?

    On March 16, the governor granted<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0UuHx6UYF781SkQ1fsBK1ED12nacLdAkYe3PQUNke-DljTgANgotAQOmWW6DpmTNJIQeBVHDB_D0vJvCd229oWgmAzJ6IJvhLtefx0A2kMKeiJ1VMdvFvFd1QWzp_a9fj3tajBhtWfJpF-i6b5oO9sjkyT9hKX4Y23L66rkhZts7I212MajXB6kKS5Z2TLvmpOe1p02xlSNLdah3O2w7nLG7SzUz5vk8ABOy2oBau76ao&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==> the office of the attorney general’s request for suspension of certain open meeting statutes. The temporary suspension allows, among other things, for telephonic or videoconference meetings of governmental bodies that are accessible to the public in an effort to reduce in-person meetings that assemble large groups of people. The guidance<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0UuaCXYf5yVjW7VNIydiRe9SXme34h_eFSFkVbU9dTF8mzqPRN9HSZ511uWkxBO2WpXc2Zb_TamJGIZwONDzJHtJEPhbHUMpB4tepnMopWk4-q1bNM1A7U5u6H76WltcXbxSISBd9ABLaT8gABXccIJ0ukx3n8Dk-n0lrmsubD3ziQ89kYGMiKQh5M9p_ZihHckOE87sGIjOTO_WkamBkqoDMJHdXOywEAzlVi0QHlSecR0WwkjW0OQzsKXw2ZE9Fpwt2CRGpFwnVqRw9rfV4L4i-l-8seur8ugzhQlw-6udyOYIWQk4UCJD0yTdS370z78l3B-D_9uITX3cjNJFTXndhcdWA46sQ3ZnV7cSdqHeRH_sTub8pGTV4OUiTHGvS2qE5l0Rzmx1fGajGP5FCn47fbKFqCn8dNg==&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==> associated with the suspension provides that:

    “These suspensions are in effect until terminated by the office of the governor, or until the March 13, 2020, disaster declaration<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0UuaCXYf5yVjWbAiaAWQEY2nf46osKARtfOYIelmPCb61zGNxwm-dN_JasH0Qte0UZYo17MCI9ESzVRdxtTKYf6Kgm2RfeOsD8MruILGemwZOi5s2ZoVEK3AFxDfdEOYJbFv9vfkQh5uu2OTgmQ0ilTBONf8XJogqxov2KnjdXFvZ_BMnIknXav7WGzd-D2jsljidNsyO59Ut&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==> is lifted or expires.”

    The March 13 disaster declaration was extended for another 30 days by his April 12, 2020, disaster declaration<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0Uv1QjuL6T6u4R9ab7tkezTZQcKRoYTElUCoCVDRW0KUSP7rSu5NSjiEIe8u5P0gDbXynwuaba-JsY0rTZSVwJMTwtCqCzSAtnXsvdh27uIlUfmSDuPdLcLjHdbrkSDZGyYehS0D0YURyxY0_q8KJ2w8j356ItYsOk66yzwC6XtRFbrEsZx1cKORuCn0z32sG7w==&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==>. That means the relevant open meetings laws remain suspended.

    We can’t be certain, but it is highly likely that the governor will extend his April 12 disaster declaration for another 30 days and probably continue to do so repeatedly. So long as he does, the relevant open meetings laws remain suspended, unless and until he takes express action to rescind his suspensions. Unless they expressly state otherwise, his orders have no effect on the suspension.

    Further Updates

    Can we get our hair cut yet?

    According to guidance issued today (April 28) by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation:

    “Cosmetology Salons, Nail Salons, Estheticians, Mini-Salons and Massage Therapy Establishments Remain Closed:

    Under Executive Order GA-18<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0UsBGPx0EZJNB9yf5chiGkdCg6fKikI4sn9-UDZXSERC68QVKPnu9nxAX4uYJM-8voYZ4665ZiFCJwbnrzIr40PJci9LlSCCPops-eWy1Io7HNhbtNcP9G8iK0kJwuKk5b4pnWon6s1xmas7c0muSyAtUqLqahqpcsX_tssNCnIAQ-IjsmpZBLb-IlPgVjhdDJ_U06GKzf2sUtr3LCL-nHAyENPK_ZjLWKogOKbVqZFeS7zb7IEa5Z6QwnlT9QzAW9MQP0HEa1xDVXjDNqhXkqyrsxP8jNxHuPjqnyoCb_uxfG_keElflDX4-mC67TYOrFpWbzUbF7ZuNDJPXYxqvA-Nvu6Easl6YrInUPnyK1wp8VRxtJacCriWQ39XYrGY_QIEyGMOGII86HeFGy-12vIewPR_XopgFHp4-RF7rPgT2uNsoX5ydFbN3BOjqeoiwgF9InYj6_udsuZHAQLzuRTc3MwYwRtASzYyhdbk2vxkFj4Pz1fRd6YDSvJaZOwC_kyyLuNX3Nl6G&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==> issued by Gov. Greg Abbott on April 27, all cosmetology salons (including nail salons, estheticians, and mini-salons), barber shops, and massage establishments shall continue to remain closed. Executive Order GA-18 overrides all local and county orders.

    Whether a salon or shop is a sole proprietorship or not, they are to remain closed until Executive Order GA-18 is amended or rescinded.”

    Of course, that guidance is imprecise in light of the language in Executive Order GA-18. Nothing in the order mandate that those businesses be “closed.” The order provides only that people “shall avoid” them:

    “People shall avoid visiting bars, gyms, public swimming pools, interactive amusement venues such as bowling alleys and video arcades, massage establishments, tattoo studios, piercing studios, or cosmetology salons.”

    Also, that guidance doesn’t necessarily address “retail to go” or “re-opened” retail services as a component of one of the prohibited businesses. In other words, if a salon sells beauty products as well, can that component of the store open in according with occupancy limits and appropriate prevention measures? It would seem the answer ultimately depends on local enforcement.

    Where can I find archived issues of the TML Coronavirus Updates?

    TML Coronavirus Updates are archived by date here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0Un8Oyx6dJY-AENcn7BOUvZ8FmjH8AxmmD7QSLUb2O-E8uBefOJCmlP-LEDqHoKFpCboTTZqE4vsmGJoI8uvB_SBMHpmVAZmEQkCVo2ZKrJOkNngrXzyCbFg=&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==> and by subject here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010EP0O211YdT6mISIiq-sEQe5_zKaCpFUJ1WU0S2OjIzGXZnpyMu0UuDginGz01mSNwH1M3gmqjlaEkfh9sQIV1kzOqMhPVIivCAI9IK-_2CKImkGd8qCp85M0rzItVXEYWJd7Q04h1Sw-rsYWep6w4ADUcI_oxVgZRe2PSwp--JamqU_ErETHtD9kTmJHGaNyRNXCOLh_W0=&c=WuBMTleLEoOroqm02XNn15WvsGLukht-sG794-mQw_n8nLCW8ZEyyQ==&ch=6-yWHE1E0gxWYQe1ONG2uvSB1Ms0G1i5tkdyEM-ArUB2a-X76fV0Pw==>.The 


    A Message From the City of San Antonio - Released April 29, 2020


    San Antonio Recovery

    The City of San Antonio has created a new web page with resources for residents to navigate these challenging times.


    A Message From Willis Towers Watson - Released May 1, 2020

    Willis Towers Watson is hosting a webcast on Wednesday, May 6th that I think would be of particular interest to you given that we’ll be discussing risk and insurance considerations while re-starting construction projects. I hope you can join.


    Restoring stability for construction
    The other side of COVID-19

    The unscheduled closures of construction sites worldwide due to COVID-19 presented many new challenges,
    even for those familiar with seasonal closures. Now that construction project restrictions are being lifted in many
    states, there are a vast number of risk management considerations for establishing a re-start strategy and
    navigating this new normal. Join us as we discuss project reopening and key insurance considerations for the
    construction industry.

    Wednesday, May 6th
    11:00 a.m. – noon CT
    Register now<https://twmeetingcenter.webex.com/mw3300/mywebex/default.do?nomenu=true&siteurl=twmeetingcenter&service=6&rnd=0.14221240759001053&main_url=https://twmeetingcenter.webex.com/ec3300/eventcenter/event/eventAction.do?theAction%3Ddetail%26%26%26EMK%3D4832534b000000040a695e4761699a16e476ebcdcb7e12e3dc4a9fd16de7a028e9b5050f9f0148c7%26siteurl%3Dtwmeetingcenter%26confViewID%3D159773884809226191%26encryptTicket%3DSDJTSwAAAASydQcYPpVbmZpxEGJGBf8Qwa2okmeP7hjPsNnud3_2kQ2%26>

    An Update from Governor Greg Abbott-Released May 7, 2020

    https://gov.texas.gov/organization/opentexas

    Get the Latest Texas Municipal League COVID-19 Updates Here

    A List of Additional Resources Provided by AIA:

    National / Global:

    ECONOMIC FORECASTS & IMPACT

    WORKPLACE

    BUSINESS RESILIENCY & CONTINGENCY PLANNING

    STUDYING OR TESTING FOR THE ARE?

    • In light of the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, NCARB has adjusted testing policies through April 30, 2020. Read the full message.

    MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

    • AIA has extended the standard lapsing date for members from March 31, 2020 to April 28, 2020. They are continuing to offer flexible options for membership with the Dues Installment Plan (DIP).

    A Message from TML-Released May 12, 2020

    Urgent Updates

    I’m worn out trying to read all the virus-related information coming at me every day. Is there another way to learn what I need to know?

    Yes, you’re in luck! 

    On May 21, from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m., the League will host the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update Webinar:

    What You Need to Know

    <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001f6EYFx8Ev5sJ2U4mX0Hsy_AIpZDFZbutGz0B6D-rZqIxdZk0Z7eixet8pN99RhwrqFmHOcAYG1Ds2i5Os0vbHGzOAS97PujmIUc9rRyoFQ3NRWU6YzOML0obe8E8ac8x2ZzneLNknL6Y1orNdz27XuOKjSMPYLdyu4I0MfCiZLgfSVfKIpnfIcbtZcM3T-qkJPlzn6zQNNfavi8w9qFgDlbtE41R3u94Bf3LJxXO5Miu2cRhSguKHw==&c=58vBKUF3HppA1O7_TxpkhCy5nQ-408_4HsuIuoOx-oWPA_xlisd13A==&ch=UzAa9NtNTcTD6cxKaBsJmNcHJsXjf4oY_73Rf4YXJXEYd2esV8zGhA==>.

    The webinar is free to TML member cities.

    Advance registration is required.

    We began email updates regarding COVID-19 over two months ago. From the beginning, League staff has pushed out important information and analysis through our written daily updates. In fact, those archived updates total over 150 pages of information. We know how hard it is to digest all the incoming information, from the League and others. Because of that, we are offering our city officials this complimentary webinar update, which will cover the key issues you need to know to serve your city. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions after the update.

    A Message from Texas Government Insider - Released June 19, 2020

    SBA head predicts more stimulus policies
    Jovita Carranza, administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA), visited Dallas on June 12 where she predicted more stimulus policies at the federal level, especially if a second surge in COVID-19 occurs.


    One measure under consideration is a third tranche of funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

    Based on loan approvals as of June 6, more than $100 billion was still available in the program.

    In addition, a Maryland senator introduced legislation that would allow eligible small businesses to apply for a second PPP loan.

     
    Carranza said the agency has processed more than $1 trillion in financial transactions since it began the program, which it continues to modify.

    On June 12, the administration updated provisions regarding PPP loan maturity, deferral of loan payments, and forgiveness criteria, and on June 17 it posted a revised loan forgiveness application with fewer calculations and less documentation for eligible borrowers.

    Administration officials stated the SBA had approved $511.38 billion in PPP loans as of June 6. Texas was second in the nation in the number and dollar volume of loans.

    The SBA also reopened the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) portal on June 15 to all eligible applicants experiencing economic impacts due to COVID-19.

    Small businesses or nonprofits may apply for long-term, low interest assistance through the EIDL to cover payroll and inventory, pay debt, or fund other expenses.


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