Will NJ's Indoor Mask Mandate Return? Here's What Murphy Says

NEW JERSEY — New York's new statewide indoor mask mandates went into effect Monday after the new omicron variant emerged. But will New Jersey follow suit?

"Every option is on the table at the moment," said Gov. Phil Murphy during a news conference Monday in regards to mandating indoor masks again.

The revived indoor mask mandate took effect Monday for New Yorkers with violations carrying a $1,000 fine, according to the rules announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul. Read More: Indoor Mask Mandate Takes Effect: What NYC Needs To Know

The decision came after the new omicron variant emerged, along with a predicted winter surge of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations statewide — and the looming threat of a hospital bed shortage that Hochul has said keeps her awake at night.

New Jersey lifted its mask mandate on May 28 for New Jersey residents and visitors in certain indoor areas. However, with COVID-19 cases climbing back up across the state and throughout local schools the question on will it returns looms.

"We think what we've got in place meets the moment," said Murphy. "Obviously all options stay on the table."

As of Monday, New Jersey reported 2,968 new COVID-19 cases and 11 confirmed deaths with a transmission rate of 1.41.

New Jersey schools are also seeing a surge in cases. In November alone, Murphy said the rate of infection has nearly doubled for students throughout the month of November and increased roughly 2.5 times for staff per 1,000 people. Read More: COVID Infection Rate Nearly Doubles In NJ Schools Amid Spike

For the week ending on Dec. 5, schools reported 4,998 new student cases and 1,168 teacher cases. That equals to 4.56 student cases per 1,000 students and 5.79 staff cases per 1,000 staff members, according to the state dashboard.

As a result, state officials continue to push the importance of vaccinations and boosters particularly with New Jersey's "Boost NJ Day" on Wednesday, Dec. 15. The day will commemorate the one-year anniversary since the first COVID-19 vaccine was administered in the Garden State by offering walk-in and additional clinics.

"As we approach the one-year anniversary of the vaccine, we encourage everyone who is eligible to get out and get vaccinated and get boosted," said Murphy. "Even if you already are, we ask that you mask up in crowded indoor spaces and when you do not know the vaccination status of those around you. Vaccination and common sense are the best protections that we have."

To find a vaccine location, click here.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here. Don't miss local and statewide announcements. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.