According to the Open.Texas website, bars will be able to open on Oct. 14 with restrictions.
In hospital regions with low COVID-19 hospitalizations, county judges will be able to opt their county into opening bars beginning Oct. 14, provided they assist in enforcing health protocols.
The Governor's Executive Order also increases the occupancy levels for all business establishments other than bars to 75 percent. Bars can open at a 50 percent capacity, and after monitoring, their capacity may be able to expand.
Dance floors must remain closed, and patrons cannot sit at bars. The restrictions said that tables cannot seat more than 6 people.
They also outlined restrictions for bars with valet or gaming equipment.
"Even as more businesses have opened and students return to school, Texans have shown we can contain the spread of COVID-19," said Governor Abbott. "Thanks to Texans following the best health practices, our state is prepared for additional openings, including bars. Working with industry leaders and our team of medical experts, the State of Texas has now developed strategies to safely open bars under certain health protocols. To ensure bars open safely, these openings will be done in conjunction with county officials. County Judges will be able to opt their county into opening bars so long as they assist in enforcing the health protocols. Opening bars does not mean that COVID-19 is no longer a threat, and most Texans are still susceptible to the virus. As bars and similar businesses begin to open, we all must remain vigilant and show personal responsibility to protect ourselves and our loved ones."
The governor said he believes this time, the opening of bars will be more successful. He said Texans are more educated and more prepared for the virus at this time.