On July 29, 2021, Governor Greg Abbott issued a new COVID-19 executive order—GA-38. The order combines many previous COVID-19 executive order requirements into a single order ensuring uniformity throughout the state. GA-38 bans local governments from limiting business capacity or mandating face coverings. Further, the order prohibits vaccine requirements by governments or entities receiving public funds. Governor Abbott stressed that, “The new Executive Order emphasizes that the path forward relies on personal responsibility rather than government mandates.”

Dentists must still comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) emergency temporary standard for COVID-19 in healthcare settings, and are encouraged to continue following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) COVID-19 “Guidance for Dental Settings” as edited on July 13, 2021.

ADA Strongly Encourages Vaccination for Dental Health Professionals
The American Dental Association (ADA) 'strongly' encourages dental professionals to be vaccinated for COVID-19, but stops short of calling for mandated vaccination.