Gov. Abbott issues executive order regarding face coverings

From Staff Reports
Published Thursday, May 20, 2021

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott recently issued Executive Order No. GA-36, which rescinds the order of face covering requirements.

“Pursuant to Executive Order No. GA-36  issued 5.18.21 by Gov. Greg Abbott, face coverings are no longer required on the Texas A&M International University campus,” TAMIU President Pablo Arenaz wrote in an email Wednesday to faculty, staff, students and campus visitors. “This is effective immediately and applies to all indoor and outdoor facilities and venues.”

With that in mind, Arenaz said TAMIU is “encouraged” by the local vaccination rates.

“… members of the University community who have not been vaccinated or who have ongoing concerns are strongly encouraged to continue the use of face coverings to reduce the likelihood of contracting COVID-19,” Arenaz continued in the email. “As the science has shown and the [Centers for Disease Control] has affirmed, the best protection can only be acquired through vaccination.”

Arenaz wrote that TAMIU will continue to observe social distancing in classrooms and at campus events, as allowed.

“Our enhanced sanitation and social distancing protocols will remain in place,” he wrote. “We also remind everyone, including those already vaccinated, of our on-campus COVID-19 testing.”

In a press release, he added, “The University continues its steadfast commitment to maintaining a safe environment by following CDC guidelines on distancing,  cleaning and on-campus COVID-19 testing and vaccinations.

“We believe that TAMIU, like the community it serves, has benefited from an impressive testing and vaccination effort.  We intend to continue these efforts and are confident that this bodes well for Laredo’s continued resilience and recovery.”

He also indicated that current campus signage related to the pandemic will be updated soon “to reflect new guidance.”