The Austin Chamber has been working diligently at the forefront along with the Austin Regional Manufacturers Association (ARMA) and Texas Association of Manufacturers (TAM) to address the growing concerns of the manufacturing and IT/Technology industries should we have to move to a shelter-in-place order. We have leveraged our relationships with organizations across the state to send a collective letter to the governor, county judges and mayors.

At this time, there is no indication that city, county or state officials are moving toward a shelter-in-place order; however, we want to be prepared. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security Cyber and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) released guidance on how it defines "critical infrastructure" and which industries might be protected in this situation. We are asking that any ordinances/declarations protect these critical infrastructure industries as outlined in this document. You may want to check this link to ensure you are protected: Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency guidance

If you would like to take action, you may want to send your concerns/letters to your local county judge and mayor/city officials. There is no pride of ownership on any of these letters. Please cut and paste and use as needed.

You will also find below the updated Austin City Ordinance that exempts employers in Section 5 with critical infrastructure designations and obligations in Exhibit B. Please note all Austin/Travis County Health Authority Recommendations are expected to be followed even with this exemption.

We greatly appreciate your presence in the Austin region and the importance of what you do in providing critical jobs, products and resources during this unprecedented time in our country. We will continue to work together to protect our citizens and corporate partners.