I have friends and family all across the country, and we talk almost daily about what life is like for them in their community. For most the folks I know, they still have some pretty strong restrictions on how they go about their daily routine during this pandemic. They are always surprised just how much we can do here in Texas while they are still being asked to stay home and wear masks everywhere.

According to a study conducted by WalletHub, Texas is in the top 15 of states that have the fewest restrictions on their citizens. In fact, we rank at number 12, which puts us just behind Alabama, Iowa, and North Dakota. By the way, because I know you are curious, the state with the least restrictions is South Dakota, and the state with the most is Illinois.

Source: WalletHub

When WalletHub was coming up with their rankings, they took 11 metrics or categories into consideration for each state. They also included the District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.) in the rankings along with all 50 states. Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with a score of 100 representing the fewest restrictions.

  • Requirement to wear a face mask
  • Travel restrictions
  • Large gathering restrictions
  • Statewide school restart
  • Reopening of restaurants and bars
  • Reopening of non-essential businesses
  • Child care programs reopening
  • Strictness on shelter in place
  • Presence of multi-state agreements to reopen
  • Suspension or postponement of legislative sessions
  • Guidance on elective surgery and medical procedures
Source: WalletHub

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