El Paso Standard

Gov. Greg Abbott and the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) have teamed to launch a COVID-19 Rapid Testing Pilot Program, intended to keep front line workers in Texas safe.

The Rapid Testing Pilot Program will help small businesses manage rapid tests on workers to decrease the spread of the coronavirus.

"This rapid testing pilot program will protect the safety of small business owners, their employees, and Texas consumers as we continue to combat COVID-19," Abbott said. "This effective strategy will help us detect and mitigate this virus while ensuring that Texas remains safely open for business. I thank the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for providing these tests and our participating Chamber of Commerce organizations for partnering with the State of Texas to help protect our communities."

Additionally, TDEM will provide local Chamber of Commerce associations with testing equipment that will then designate the supplies to small businesses across the state. All small businesses can opt-in to participate in the program.