FAQ: What you need to know about Abbott's new mask order FacebookTwitterEmail Gov. Greg Abbott announced Tuesday that he was lifting the mask mandate and eliminating the occupancy restrictions on businesses across the state.Jay Janner /Associated Press This file will be updated as information becomes available. In the interest of public service, we have made this story free for all readers. Sign up for our breaking newsletter or download the Express-News app to receive alerts. What did Gov. Greg Abbott's order say? Starting on March 10, nearly a year after the first lockdowns, Abbott will lift the mask mandate for Texas and allow businesses to open at 100 percent capacity. The new order will end occupancy limits for restaurants, bars, sporting events, retailers and wherever people gather and masks will no longer be required.