TPPF, AFP Praise Abbott for Handling of COVID-19 Crisis

AUSTIN—Today, two of the state’s leading policy and advocacy organizations commended Texas Governor Greg Abbott for his work during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Specifically, they noted his waiving of regulations related to telemedicine and trucking, that can be important life-saving measures that improve health care and the rapid delivery of goods to grocery stores. In addition, they praised the Governor’s recent declaration closing restaurants and schools, limiting gatherings to less than 10 people, and other items.  The groups pledged to continue working with the state to pursue additional measures that could improve Texans’ economic and personal well-being. 

According to a release from the governor’s office, Gov. Abbott “waived certain regulations and directed that the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) issue an emergency rule, all relating to telemedicine care for patients with state-regulated insurance plans to help doctors across Texas continue to treat their patients while mitigating the spread of COVID-19.” 

Statement from Kevin Roberts, Executive Director of the Texas Public Policy Foundation: 

“The Governor has taken bold and wise action in the interest of public health and safety, while opening opportunities that will ensure people can get the care and access to the products they need. As we saw in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, telemedicine can help health care professionals reach millions who might otherwise be inaccessible. Gov. Abbott’s new rules will allow more Texans to consult with a health care provider remotely, which serves to protect the health of both the patient and the provider.” 

Statement from Jerome Greener, State Director, Americans for Prosperity-Texas. 

“We commend Governor Abbott for taking swift and decisive action to address the public health and economic challenges associated with the spread of COVID-19. The Governor’s efforts to expand telemedicine and reduce regulations for businesses to deliver needed food and supplies will ensure more Texans have access to the care they need and work to limit the spread of the virus that could occur from traditional, in-person doctors’ visits as well as gathering in group settings. AFP thanks Gov. Abbott for his leadership during this unprecedented pandemic.”