The Texas Public Policy Foundation applauded Governor Greg Abbott’s announcement that he would be lifting almost all pandemic-related restrictions so Texans could safely return to their jobs, schools, and individual lives.
“The pandemic and subsequent government-induced shutdown has taken a tremendous toll on all Texans, not just with the health challenges but also the massive disruption to the social, educational, and economic welfare of our state,” said TPPF Executive Director Kevin Roberts. “Millions of Texans lost their livelihoods and were left with no options. Students, particularly those in K-12, will require years to get back on track. Though resilient, the Texas economy suffered a gut punch at a time when it was a shining example to the rest of the country. And of course, we lost too many lives from the virus itself.
“Perhaps the biggest hidden casualty from all this is the diminished confidence and trust Texans have in certain institutions to respond appropriately, decisively, and transparently during an extended emergency. We have the opportunity now to take stock and learn the lessons of what went right and wrong, and develop better practices that protect both our lives and liberties.”
Roberts added: “With the news that Texans are successfully fighting the spread of the disease, through vaccinations and common-sense public-health practices, we can begin the business of full recovery in earnest. That means giving families, businesses, and schools across Texas the freedom to determine how to keep our communities open and safe. TPPF commends Governor Abbott for stewarding Texas through this difficult time and making the decision to fully open our state.”