All roadways entering Texas from Louisiana will have officials conducting checkpoints and screenings to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The checkpoints are part of an executive order issued by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to combat the global pandemic.
In a series of press conferences from late March, Abbott included Louisiana in an order that makes those who enter and stay in Texas fill out a form from the Texas Department of Public Safety, to designate their 14-day quarantine location. Those individuals would be followed up on by state special agents who would conduct unannounced visits to verify that quarantine conditions are met.
Breaking quarantine would be considered a crime and punishable by up to a $1,000 fine, up to 180 days of jail time, or both.
The Louisiana State Police Department posted pictures of The Texas Department of Public Safety's checkpoints on Sunday, April 5.
Texas Officials Begin COVID-19 Checkpoints
"The screenings are related to the COVID-19 pandemic and motorists are urged to exercise caution and remain alert for traffic congestion when traveling west into Texas. The screening of vehicles applies to all roadways crossing into Texas including interstates," Louisiana Officials posted.
The executive order does include a clause that allows for commercial activity, military service, emergency response, health response, or other necessary infrastructure functions.
You can read more about the recent executive orders issued by Gov. Abbott at the official TDPS website.