Abbott extends state’s disaster declaration for virus

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott extended a statewide disaster declaration Saturday in response to the coronavirus pandemic that continues to ravage the state. The order allows the state to continue to contribute to individual counties in their fight the virus.

Abbott first issued the declaration March 13 as the pandemic began its assault on Texas. At the time, there were less than 50 confirmed cases in the state, not including military facilities. Now, there are almost 475,000 people with the virus, according to state health officials Friday. Renewing the declaration "will provide communities with the resources they need to respond to COVID-19," Abbott said in a statement.

"I urge Texans to remain vigilant in our fight against this virus," Abbott said. "Everyone must do their part to slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and washing your hands frequently and thoroughly. We will overcome this challenge by working together."

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