WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, issued the following statement on March 13 regarding Austin Mayor Steve Adler announced the closing of Austin bars, restaurants, and limiting gatherings to 10 people as protective measures against the coronavirus:

"Like the courageous decision to shutter SXSW, Mayor Adler is taking the necessary step to limit suffering and deaths. Communities across Texas, especially in our neighboring counties, should do the same.