City of Abilene Clarifies Position on Gov. Abbott's Executive Order

ABILENE, TX -- Hours after the City Manager announced Abilene would not be enforcing Gov Abbott's latest executive order, the city announced a clarification on Facebook.

According to KTXS, in the post, the city acknowledged they did not intend to disregard the order.

"The City of Abilene encourages all business owners and citizens to follow Governor Greg Abbott’s Executive Order issued earlier today."

"The City never intended to imply an intention to disregard the Governor’s Executive Order or support any kind of action by citizens or business owners in contradiction to the Executive Order. The City apologizes for any lack of clarity in earlier messaging on the matter."

In the post, the city encouraged citizens to stay vigilant, practice social distancing, and wear a mask if appropriate.

The city clarified the TABC is the agency with the authority to implement any changes.

"While the City of Abilene is not the enforcement agency charged with overseeing compliance with the Governor’s Executive Order, the City asks that residents and business owners follow the Order to the best of their ability," the City said in a statement.

"The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) is the enforcement authority that will work to enforce the Governor’s Executive Order within bars and restaurants across the state. The City of Abilene relies upon the TABC to identify bar or restaurant owners who operate in a manner inconsistent with the Governor’s Order, and if necessary, pull the liquor license of an establishment."