Grayson Times

Grayson County has extended its disaster declaration as the nation continues to grapple with coronavirus. 

According to the Herald Democrat, the updated declaration includes the quarantine mandates Gov. Greg Abbott recently issued to stop the spread of the virus. Individuals who come to Texas must self-quarantine for 14 days if they traveled from anywhere in California, Louisiana, New York and Washington, or from the cities of Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit and Miami.

As of April 3, Texas reported 5,330 confirmed cases of the coronavirus, including 90 deaths. Grayson County has 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

The revised declaration will remain in effect until at least April 30. The original disaster declaration for Grayson County was made on March 16.

“We all have to continue to work together to safeguard the health of our community,” County Judge Bill Magers said during the first declaration, as reported by KXII-TV. “This declaration ensures that we are able to access and share strategic resources and supplies as they become available.”

Abbott declared a state of disaster for all Texas counties on March 13.

“The State of Texas is prepared, and we continue to take proactive measures along with the support of our federal and local partners to contain this virus and keep Texans safe,” Abbott said at a news conference. “Declaring a State of Disaster is a key component of these efforts because it allows the state to effectively serve the people of Texas without hindrance or delay. When Texans come together, there is nothing we can't overcome—and it is up to all of us to work proactively and collaboratively to respond to this challenge and protect public health.”

Among the actions implemented under a state of disaster declaration are the ability to use state government resources, move resources around the state, enhance planning and response capabilities, and prosecute individual engaging in price-gouging.

President Donald Trump has also issued a major disaster declaration for the State of Texas.