Due to this clear and present danger to public health in Austin, I believe it is essential we cancel the upcoming Austin Rodeo. The CDC and other organizations investigating the Coronavirus have determined that the virus originated from human contact with animals, as with the other strains of influenza.  The Austin Rodeo hosts hundreds of animals, all of whom will leave waste virtually everywhere they travel.

The City of Austin has already cancelled SXSW and all events with over 2,500 people following CDC guidelines. 

This is an unacceptable risk given the current health crisis, and will only serve as a breeding ground for the spread of zoonotic diseases such as the Coronavirus.  

In addition to the risk to Austinites, this will also create the potential for massive spread out of Texas and into other states, due to Rodeo attendees from other parts of the US.

I urge the CDC and Travis County Commissioners to place the health of the public above profit or tradition and shut down the Rodeo.
It is crucial that they receive our petition before their next meeting on Thursday at 1:30pm to discuss this critical issue.