New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy lifted restrictions on church services and protests Tuesday, a day after he violated his own stay-at-home order to join a demonstration against racial injustice.
“Given the growing body of evidence showing the reduced risk of transmission of coronavirus outdoors, we believe the appropriate rule prioritizes individuals‘ right to speak and worship freely,” Murphy said during a press conference.
Murphy’s new rules, which allow for 50 people or 25% capacity at a church, follow prolonged protests and lawsuits after the state became the last to maintain a ban on in-person church services entirely. Many state lawmakers criticized him Monday after he joined protesters at a rally after the death of George Floyd.
Murphy said that he was changing his order, which only applies to churches and protesters, in the interest of treating the faith community equally.
“This is not only directed at faith, but the big emphasis here, the big thrust, is faith,” Murphy said. “While easing the restrictions will allow for greater movement and greater flexibility, our No. 1 concern will remain protecting public health.”
On Tuesday, many Republican senators and Attorney General William Barr criticized Democratic governors and other elected officials who participated in mass protests after discouraging large gatherings during the coronavirus lockdown.
“The rights of free speech, free assembly, and the free exercise of religion are all First Amendment rights,” Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said in a speech. “They have the same constitutional pedigree. But apparently, while protests are now permissible, prayer is still too dangerous. Politicians are now picking and choosing within the First Amendment itself.”
