Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) has threatened to fine local officials and businesses that enforce mask mandates up to $1,000 in an executive order issued on Thursday. The new order reiterates Abbott’s opposition to mask mandates while extending previously issued orders which penalised local officials and others for enforcing various COVID-19 safety protocols. The governor said the new order would “provide clarity and uniformity in the Lone Star State’s continued fight against COVID-19.” As per the order, residents are strongly encouraged to consistently follow good hygiene and social-distancing and, in areas where the COVID-19 transmission rate is high, individuals are encouraged to follow safety practices such as wearing face coverings and maintaining social distance. However, no person will be required to wear or to mandate the wearing of a face covering and government entities such as county, city, school district, or public health authorities cannot require people to wear face coverings. Abbott previously implemented a similar order on May …