Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Demands Transparency from the Trump Administration on Federally Managed COVID-19 Testing Sites, Criticizes Governor Abbott for Re-opening the State of Texas Too Early Last Month

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29) issued a statement demanding transparency from the Trump Administration on federally managed COVID-19 testing sites in Harris County and criticizing Governor Greg Abbott for re-opening the state of Texas too early last month.

"For the last couple of days, there has been grave concern in Houston and Harris County that the federal government will be pulling its support from 13 federal COVID-19 testing sites across the country, including four in Harris County. We've heard nothing but doubletalk from the White House in response to the community's concerns at a time when we need decisive action. Trump's chaotic pandemic response is putting the Houston region at risk of becoming the next epicenter of this virus. This is a scary thought as the number of coronavirus cases continues to spike in the Houston region and all across Texas.

If this President won't act, we need Governor Abbott to do what is right for Texas. He must do his job, follow the science, and help save lives. I am glad he has finally decided to pause re-opening the state, but let's make one thing clear. He failed us when he made the outrageous decision to re-open last month and blocked local officials from keeping us safe. Governor Abbott still has an opportunity to do what's right.

I call on Governor Abbott to immediately:

1. Issue a statewide facemask order;
2. Empower local officials to enact additional safety procedures of their choosing; and
3. Expand testing and contact tracing across Texas.

Our state and country need bold action that will save lives and we need it now. Anything less will result in the unnecessary loss of more innocent lives."

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Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in November 2018, becoming the first Latina ever to represent the Texas 29th Congressional District. She serves on the House Judiciary and Financial Services Committees.