Governor Murphy extended the public health state of emergency for another 30 days, as the state announced a increase of 1,994 COVID-19 cases, the highest single day increase since May.

The Governor also said that he and First Lady Tammy Murphy have tested negative again for COVID-19.

Murphy said on social media that “I’ve extended the public health emergency in New Jersey for an additional 30 days. With the alarming rise in cases we have seen today (our highest count since May), it could not be more important to ensure we have access to all available resources to keep New Jerseyans safe.”

On the case increase: “We’re reporting 1,994 new positive cases of #COVID19, pushing our cumulative total to 227,339. We haven’t seen daily case numbers this high since May. We’re still in the midst of a pandemic and need everyone to take this seriously. Wear a mask. Social distance. Wash your hands. Sadly, we are reporting eight new confirmed COVID-19 deaths for a total of 14,492 lives lost. Again, I urge every New Jerseyan to stay vigilant. This virus has not gone away simply because we are tired of it. Stay #JerseyStrong.”

The Governor’s Office released the following:

Governor Phil Murphy today signed Executive Order No. 191. The Order extends the Public Health Emergency that was declared on March 9, 2020 through Executive Order No. 103, which was previously extended on April 7, May 6, June 4, July 2, August 1, August 27, and September 25. Under the Emergency Health Powers Act, a declared public health emergency expires after 30 days unless renewed.

“Today’s new COVID-19 case count marks our highest daily figure since May,” said Governor Murphy. “As we face a steep increase in cases, it could not be more important to ensure we have access to all available resources. Keeping New Jerseyans safe is our highest priority, today and every day. We are again extending the Public Health Emergency in order to do exactly that.”

Executive Order No. 191 extends all Executive Orders issued under the Governor’s authority under the Emergency Health Powers Act. It also extends all actions taken by any Executive Branch departments and agencies in response to the Public Health Emergency presented by the COVID-19 outbreak.

For the full text of Executive Order No. 191, click here.