Governor Phil Murphy announced a statewide “Stay at Home” order Saturday and closed all non-essential retail businesses at 9 p.m., to slow the spread of the COVID-19/Coronavirus.
“We know the virus spreads through person-to person contact, and the best way to prevent further exposure is to limit our public interactions to only the most essential purposes,” said Governor Murphy. “This is a time for us all to come together in one mission to ‘flatten the curve’ and slow – and eventually halt – the spread of coronavirus.”
Governor Murphy announced the launch of a new website that can offer up-to-date information – covid19.nj.gov.
These businesses are considered essential and remain open. Social distancing practices at these locations must continue:
- Grocery stores, farmer’s markets and farms that sell directly to customers, and other food stores, including retailers that offer a varied assortment of foods comparable to what exists at a grocery store
- Pharmacies and medical marijuana dispensaries
- Medical supply stores
- Gas stations
- Convenience stores
- Ancillary stores within healthcare facilities
- Hardware and home improvement stores
- Banks and other financial institutions
- Laundromats and dry-cleaning services
- Stores that principally sell supplies for children under five years
- Pet stores
- Liquor stores
- Car dealerships, but only for auto maintenance and repair, and auto mechanics
- Printing and office supply shops
- Mail and delivery stores
- Restaurants continue to remain open for takeout and delivery service only.