It's been two days since Gov. Abbott announced that the Texas mask mandate would be lifted on March 10th.

Some companies are still asking customers to wear a mask and practice social distancing to help stop the coronavirus spread.

CNN reports that some of the major US grocery chains, pharmacies, retailers, and auto manufactures, Including Kroger, CVS, Walgreens, Best Buy, Macy's, JCPenny, Toyota, GM will continue to require mask-wearing at their stores and facilities for both employees and customers.

Even though the statewide mandate will be lifted next week, private businesses still have the right to ask Texans to follow the CDC guidelines regarding wearing a mask and practicing social distancing.

The current hospitalization rate in the state Trauma Service Area that includes Bell County is about 7.5%.

Should it go above 15% for seven straight days, Abbott’s order would allow counties to restrict businesses to 50% capacity, though authorities would not be able to penalize anyone for not wearing a mask.

Some local establishments and companies will likely receive pushback from customers. I remember seeing customers arguing with employees over mask use, and some totally spazzing out in the stores. If a business asks you to wear a mask, don't be rude. Either respect their wish to protect employees and other customers are at least be polite enough to decline nicely.

 

During his public address Tuesday, Governor Abbott said Texans know what they need to do in order to protect themselves and their neighbors during this ongoing pandemic. I hope we use our better judgment to keep the percentage of cases down.

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