Warren Will Not Impose Added COVID-19 Restrictions On Businesses

WARREN, NJ — Gov. Phil Murphy gave towns the option to further restrict hours by closing nonessential businesses after 8 p.m. due to rising coronavirus cases, Warren will not impose this.

"We, as a Township Committee believe in giving business owners and residents the autonomy to be informed and take the right course of action as needed in everyone's best interests. We've seen this already with our restaurants and residents taking every precaution needed while going about daily life in Warren," said Warren Mayor Michael "Mick" Marion.

Marion added that if the township sees precautions not being taking the committee will step in.

"We will take necessary steps to protect all but I have faith in those that live and work in Warren to be mindful of needed precautions day-to-day," continued Marion. "What we need to do is double down on our public health measures and fight the fatigue associated with it. It's extremely important as we move into the winter months especially with upcoming holidays."

Murphy signed an executive order last Thursday granting municipalities and counties the option to close nonessential businesses after 8 p.m. Read More: Gov. Murphy: NJ Towns Can Add COVID-19 Restrictions On Businesses

The order comes amid further restrictions announced last Monday, which mandates restaurants, bars, clubs and lounges in the state to close indoor service between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., effective starting Thursday. Read more: Gov. Murphy Clarifies New Rules For NJ Indoor Dining, Barbers

Many businesses in the area have been struggling amid the pandemic and some, such as Lukas' Seafood & Grille, say the new restrictions will hurt them further. Read More: Warren Restaurants Try To Survive As New NJ Restrictions Imposed

As of last Wednesday, Warren has a cumulative total of 229 positive cases and 16 deaths.

Murphy also reduced limits on gatherings – including those on Thanksgiving – because coronavirus cases have risen sharply. Murphy told MSNBC's "Morning Joe" that New Jersey is reducing the limits on indoor gatherings from 25 to 10 people beginning Tuesday, and on outdoor gatherings from 500 to 150 people beginning Nov. 23. Read More: Gov. Murphy: NJ To Lower Gathering Limits Amid Coronavirus Spikes

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