COVID-19 Resources

Since mid-March, our communities, state, and nation have been impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) in ways that are unique and unprecedented in United States history. We all have questions, concerns, and anxiety over the health and safety of our families and friends, over the status of jobs, and the long-term ramifications to our state and country.

My office is engaged in numerous calls with federal officials, state officials, local officials, emergency management personnel, school districts, hospitals, and leaders in our community all in an effort to help be the conduit of information to better serve the public. Many people have shared great ideas with me that my staff and I have shared with the Governor’s office and the Texas Division of Emergency Management to increase the state’s ability to respond to the public health emergency.

The recent weeks have allowed Texans to educate themselves on the CDC guidelines and be prepared to continue to care for themselves and their neighbors. Consumers will naturally reengage to the extent they feel safe, and businesses have a financial incentive to create the conditions of a safe environment without government mandates designating businesses to be closed based on a designation of “essential” or “non-essential.”

Be encouraged. We are all working together for solutions and by maintaining our diligence and positive attitudes, we can work through the problem together. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you need assistance.

This webpage provides links to frequently asked questions regarding county assistance programs, the Governor’s executive orders, the Texas Workforce Commission, and education guidance.

Please know that I am here to serve you and to listen, learn, and lead for the you in State Senate District 8.

Blessings,

Angela S. Paxton
Texas State Senator, District 8

Links to State Resources

On March 13, 2020, Governor Abbott issued a state disaster declaration related to COVID-19. On March 19, 2020, Dr. Hellerstedt, Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services, issued a Public Health Disaster Emergency for Texas. The declarations allow the State of Texas to request federal assistance, including financial assistance to the state, and also place cities and counties in cooperation and coordination with the Texas Division of Emergency Management.

List of Executive Orders issued by Governor Abbott: https://gov.texas.gov/coronavirus-executive-orders

Governor Abbott’s Strikeforce to Open Texas: https://open.texas.gov/

Department of State Health Services COVID-19 Dashboard

Find a COVID-19 Testing Location

Texas Workforce Commission FAQ about COVID-19 Unemployment Benefits

Links to Senate District 8 County Resources

Collin County CARES Act

Dallas County COVID-19 Assistance Programs

Education

One of the most important aspects of the state and local response is at the school district level. Schools are so important to our families and communities and we want to ensure that learning can continue safely and responsibly. School districts also provide necessary meals for many students during the day that need to continue.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is developing guidance for school districts for instruction continuity planning, teaching children with special needs, school calendars, and locations where children can pick up meals if necessary.

• Links to the Texas Education Agency COVID-19 updates and guidance for school districts.
• Link to the Texas School Meal Finder for families and students, as developed through the TEA.

(Download a PDF verion of these resources)