Just days after issuing Executive Order 151, which extended the public health state of emergency for New Jersey in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, Governor Phil Murphy lifted the stay-at-home order for residents early this afternoon.
Citing both statistics showing a downward trend in cases of COVID-19 and the need to remain cautious, Murphy announced that, effective immediately, indoor gatherings will be permitted at whichever number is lower – 25% of a building’s capacity or 50 people total and the limit on outdoor gatherings will be raised to 100 people. He further stated that the limit on outdoor public gatherings will increase to 250 on June 22 and to 500 on July 3, in time for Independence Day celebrations and the allowed date of high school graduation celebrations July 6.
“We can take these steps today because of the data and the prevailing science,” the Governor’s Facebook states. “The data tells us that the time can be now. The science tells us that outdoor activities are far safer than indoor activities. We will continue to base our decisions squarely on facts and data.”
Murphy cautioned: “Please continue to be responsible and safe. Wear face coverings and keep a social distance from others when out in public.”
