Government - page 53

Checkpoints to screen cars have been set up on roads entering Texas from Louisiana as part of the enforcement of Gov. Greg Abbott’s Executive Order requiring self-quarantine. 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.

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. Commercial traffic will not be impacted.

People driving from Louisiana to Texas are required to self-quarantine for 14 days as the coronavirus pandemic takes hold of areas in Louisiana and the country hopes to slow the spread. Travelers will be expected to fill out a form detailing where they plan to self-quarantine and their driver licenses information for a random follow up by a state trooper. A copy of the form can be found on https://www.dps.texas.gov/

As punishment for violating these quarantine rules, a $1,000 fine or 180 days in jail will be handed down. However, the requirements do not apply to travel related to commercial activity, military service, emergency response, health response, and critical infrastructure functions.

A Texas Highway Patrol spokesperson released the following statement:

“As part of our efforts to enforce Governor Abbott’s Executive Order (GA-12), the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is increasing its presence along the Texas/Louisiana border. DPS Troopers will set up roadway screening stations to gather required forms from road travelers along the border. The area of operations will remain in Texas counties that border Louisiana. The established screening stations will take place on major roadways in these counties, including interstate highways and other high-volume routes. Travelers will be asked to complete the travel form required under GA-12. It’s important for those entering Texas from Louisiana to be prepared to stop.

While the department does not discuss specifics related to its operational plans regarding enforcement, we want the public to be prepared for increased patrols and additional law enforcement presence along the Texas/Louisiana border as we work to enforce the Governor’s Executive Order.”