News

ARMA and Austin Chamber urge exemptions for manufacturing and IT industries

Guidelines from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) identify the manufacturing and information technology industries as essential to our national workforce’s critical infrastructure.

ARMA has been working diligently at the forefront along with the Austin Chamber of Commerce and Texas Association of Manufacturers (TAM) to address the growing concerns of the manufacturing and IT/Technology industries should we have to move to a shelter-in-place order. We have leveraged our relationships with organizations across the state to send a collective letter to the governor, county judges and mayors.

At this time, there is no indication that city, county or state officials are moving toward a shelter-in-place order; however, we want to be prepared. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security Cyber and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) released guidance on how it defines “critical infrastructure” and which industries might be protected in this situation. We are asking that any ordinances/declarations protect these critical infrastructure industries as outlined in this document. You may want to check this link to ensure you are protected: Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency guidance

If you would like to take action, you may want to send your concerns/letters to your local county judge and mayor/city officials. There is no pride of ownership on any of these letters. Please cut and paste and use as needed.

You will also find attached the updated Austin City Ordinance that exempts employers in Section 3A. Please note all Austin/Travis County Health Authority Recommendations are expected to be followed even with this exemption.

More helpful links and resources here: http://www.arma-tx.org/news/post/COVID19-resources

City of Austin Stay Home Work Safe Orders
Williamson County Stay Home Work Safe Orders
ARMA Travel Authorization Letter