NEW JERSEY – Gov. Phil Murphy promised more re-openings in the state would soon occur but those violating the current order should take note as he also pledged to take action toward violators.
During his June 12 press conference update of pandemic conditions in New Jersey he announced that more reopening’s would occur based on data about the coronavirus impact has continued to lessen.
He noted the addition of 495 cases of COVID-19 and 48 additional deaths. He added that his administration would soon be filing a lawsuit against Asbury Park to stop plans on June 15 to restart its indoor dining.
Asbury Park restaurants are hesitant to open their doors and face possible fines, but city officials say their economy has experienced too much suffering for too long.
The governor noted the number of cases of the coronavirus has totaled 166,164 and 12,489 people have died from it.
Among the agencies and businesses that will be reopened are libraries that can do curbside pickup, beauty salons and barber shops that can reopen on June 22 along with cosmetology shops, day and medical spas though not steam rooms, saunas or shared bathing facilities.
Also able to reopen on June 22 are electrology faciliites, hair-braiding shops, massage parlors, nail salons, tanning salons and tattoo parlors.
The governor said he’d be announcing guidelines on how these businesses can operate but some of the requirements include pre-screening and temperature checks, staff/client pairs must be six feet apart unless there are physical barriers and appointment only service only.
Other requirements include that masks be worn. The guidelines will be released regarding summer educational programs.
Already restarting are daycare, indoor retail and outdoor dining on June 15. The governor has credited the public’s cooperation with social distancing and business shutdowns as the reason for the state’s flattening of the curve and the declining number of COVID-19 cases.
“We’re taking steps in small batches,” Gov. Murphy said. During his June 9 press conference that the stay-at-home order has been lifted, and that outdoor gatherings – including those for graduations and religious services – will now be permitted.
The stay-at-home order was first issued on March 21 to slow down the spread of the virus, and medical experts have said this has been successful.
Murphy said, “the stay-at-home order has saved countless lives.”
The governor added, that if the downward trend of cases reverses, then restrictions might be enforced again.
