UPDATE: INDOOR DINING WILL NO LONGER RESUME ON THURSDAY.

We had planned to loosen restrictions this week. However, after #COVID19 spikes in other states driven by, in part, the return of indoor dining, we have decided to postpone indoor dining indefinitely.

We have been cautious throughout every step of our restart.

We’ve always said that we would not hesitate to hit pause if needed to safeguard public health.

This is one of those times.

We’re also moved to pause indoor dining because of what we’ve seen in some establishments across the state.

Overcrowding. A complete disregard for social distancing. Very few, IF ANY, face coverings.

The scenes we see in our newspapers and on social media CANNOT CONTINUE.

I recognize that there are many more establishments whose owners, managers, and customers have been responsible, who have lived up not just to the guidance we’ve released, but to the spirit of community in helping to protect patrons and residents.

The carelessness of one establishment can completely undo the good work of many others.

We will not tolerate outlier bars and restaurants – and, frankly, patrons – who think the rules don’t apply to them.

They are the ones who ruin it for everyone else.

Compliance isn’t a polite suggestion. It is required.
 
Selflessness, not selfishness.

Governor Phil Murphy NOW FINE THESE BAD ESTABLISHMENTS AND TAKE AWAY THEIR LICENSES!!