Hidalgo County Cortez orders county to lower mass gatherings to 10 as new curfew is mandated

EDINBURG – In his capacity as the county’s emergency management director, Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez signed an order Thursday requiring all Hidalgo County residents to limit mass gatherings to no more than 10 persons while implementing a curfew to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The new curfew is set for 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. for those age 17 and under. Those age 18 and above must stay home between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. The order goes into effect immediately and will remain effective until modified.

“Our rise in numbers have been concerning, and action has to be taken to do our best in slowing this virus,” said Judge Cortez.  “It appears that despite the rise in infections, that residents have not taken proper precautions in protecting their friends and family from this disease.”

The revised order was signed by Judge Cortez after Governor Greg Abbott announced a halt to any further opening of businesses statewide because of the increased numbers of infections.

The order includes the directive that County businesses mandate the use of facial coverings by all employees and customers; and highly recommends that any person over the age of 3 in Hidalgo County wear a facial covering. Residents are also strongly encouraged to continue staying at home unless engaged in essential services and apply physical distancing of six feet or more when out in public to slow the spread of the virus.

“I am asking that you all stand united in safeguarding each other and think of the domino effect of this virus,” said Judge Cortez.  “You are all part of the solution.”