Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued an executive order May 22 suspending in-person visits to all county and municipal jails in the state.
The restrictions do not apply to attorneys meeting with a client or religious leaders and clergy members. The order aims to contain COVID-19 hot spots and protect staff and inmates.
In a press release, Abbott states: “Jails have shown to be highly susceptible to COVID-19 surges which is why we are focused on containing any potential hot spots and preventing spread both within jails and the community. I encourage jails to utilize virtual visitation strategies to allow for visitations in a way that protects both staff and the inmate population. The State of Texas is committed to keeping all Texans safe, protecting our most vulnerable populations, and mitigating the spread of COVID-19 throughout the Lone Star State.”
