Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced that he will allow the statewide stay-at-home home order to expire on Thursday.
"The price has been steep," he said in news conference Monday. "Some have lost jobs, lost businesses and some are struggling to pay bills. I want those Texans to know they are not alone in this fight."
The governor also revealed his multi-phased plan to slowly and carefully reopen more businesses in Texas.
Retail stores, restaurants, movie theaters, libraries, museums, and malls will be able to open on May 1, but not completely. They must open under guidelines meant to contain the spread of COVID-19.
For restaurants and other businesses, that includes only opening at 25 percent capacity, keep tables six feet apart, and many other rules outlined in a checklist for restaurants.