TRENTON, N.J. – Assemblyman Edward Thomson chided Gov. Phil Murphy for maintaining indoor mask mandates even after the Centers for Disease Control released updated guidance that says masks are no longer needed for fully vaccinated Americans in most circumstances.
“Now that the experts at the CDC say we can lift these mandates, it’s time for Governor Murphy to drop the mask rule for vaccinated residents,” said Thomson (R-Monmouth). “There’s absolutely no scientific basis for his refusal to follow the CDC guidelines and end the blanket indoor mask requirement.”
The agency on Thursday announced masks and social distancing are no longer necessary for people who have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Masks would still be required for crowded indoor settings.
But Murphy said Friday that he will only eliminate the mandate for outdoor activities.
“For over a year, New Jersey residents and businesses have had their lives turned upside down by these pandemic-related orders,” said Thomson. “Our residents have suffered long enough and the governor should follow the science, not just when it conveniently justifies his actions. After spending many hours on boards with experts, there is no scientific justification for his actions.”