We trust that this email finds you healthy and safe.
As you may have heard, on Saturday, April 11, Governor Abbott made comments related to golf. The following day, a guidance letter of legal advice was provided by the Texas Attorney General’s Office. Click
HERE
to read the letter.
Golf indeed can, and has been approved to provide a safe haven to get exercise and take a break from the uncertainty many of us are feeling at the moment. However, whether or not golf is allowed to be played will continue to be determined County to County and Judge to Judge throughout the State of Texas. If a facility is open, it is then up to facility ownership, management, city councils and board of directors to determine if they are open and, if open, how they will operate within the guidelines.
It is imperative for facilities that are to open follow the best practices created specifically for golf. Facilities must also strictly enforce social distancing protocols and CDC guidelines related to COVID-19.
Below is a Summary of the Guidance Letter About Golf Courses Regarding GA-14:
- GA-14 expressly allows for “engaging in physical activity.” In Texas, a person is not prohibited from playing or practicing golf on a private or public facility.
- The portion of the clubhouse that may provide “essential services,” like restaurants may continue to provide take-out or delivery options.
- Golf course maintenance operations may continue.
- Staff who are necessary to maintain safety and sanitation of businesses are likewise essential.
- Golf shops and other areas of a clubhouse that are deemed non-essential should be closed. Therefore, tee times and if applicable, payment should be made in advance and on-line.
If the facility that you work or play at is open, it is absolutely imperative that social distancing protocols and public health instructions are followed by those operating the facility and also those that are playing golf. There will be zero tolerance as breaches may result in fines and the facility being shut down by local authorities.
The coronavirus is affecting the lives of all of us in ways we could not have imagined a few weeks ago. However, as outlined in the guidance letter, golf has the unique opportunity to be one of the first activities to come back to life as a safe refuge on the other side of this pandemic.
On behalf of those that work collectively for the betterment of the Texas golf industry, enjoy the game by “engaging in physical activity,” but most importantly, do so safely and responsibly and follow protocols that have been outlined by the President of the United States, the CDC and local authorities.
We trust that you, your family and all those at your facility remain healthy and safe.
Thank you for your attention to this letter.
