Kean, Bramnick & Munoz Call for Governor to Lift Youth Ice Hockey Restrictions

The 21st District legislators joined forces to urge Governor Phil Murphy to lift unnecessary restrictions that have prevented youth ice hockey teams from resuming competition.

“I have spoken with countless ice hockey parents and league officials who are confident they are informed, prepared, and ready to resume youth ice hockey competition in a manner that is safe for all involved,” said Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean. “I agree, which is why I’ve spoken directly with the Governor’s Office on two separate occasions to urge that the restrictions on indoor ice hockey competition be reviewed and lifted.”

Governor Murphy enacted Executive Order No. 168 on July 20, which directs how various non-professional sports may resume practices and competitions. The administration considers hockey to be a “medium risk” sport, in the same category as lacrosse, volleyball, soccer, and baseball/softball.

Under the New Jersey Department of Health’s current “Guidance for Sports,” these medium risk sports, including hockey, are permitted to engage in contact practices and competition in outdoor settings. They may only engage in no-contact practices in indoor settings, including ice rinks.

“Due to the nature of maintaining the necessary climate, the spacious indoor rinks where ice hockey games are played have constant air circulation and are extremely well ventilated,” said Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick. “With those HVAC capabilities and the same precautionary measures that have allowed soccer and football games to resume safely, there’s no reason we can’t get hockey teams back on the ice as soon as possible.”

USA Hockey has published extensive guidance to ensure that rink owners, leagues, teams, and parents have the information they need to resume ice hockey competition safely.

“Hockey teaches you not only to fall down but to get back up – an important lesson for all of us in these times,” said Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz. “We recognize things will be a little bit different, but it’s time to get out of the way and let our kids just play again.”