On Sunday, April 5, 2020, checkpoints and screening of vehicles by the Texas Department of Public Safety began on all roadways entering Texas from Louisiana, State Police say.
“Beginning Sunday, April 5, 2020, motorists are urged to exercise caution and remain alert for traffic congestion when traveling west into Texas from Louisiana roadways,” Louisiana State Police said.
“Checkpoints and screening of vehicles leaving Louisiana related to the COVID-19 pandemic may result in traffic backups in westbound lanes of travel. The screening of vehicles applies to all roadways crossing the LA/TX border including interstates.”
The statement added: “Commercial motor vehicle traffic will not be obstructed.”
Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed an executive for all Louisianans crossing state line into Texas be quarantined for 14 days. That order went into effect Monday, March 30.
Anyone who does not follow the self-quarantine order will be subject to criminal penalties for violations. That’s up to a $1,000 fine or up to 180 days in jail, or both.
Gov. Abbott also issued a 14-day restriction to those flying into Texas from New Orleans, Miami, New York, New Jersey, Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Washington state, and California.
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