“Governor Murphy’s plan is telling us that it doesn’t matter how many people are becoming impoverished as long as they don’t get COVID-19,” said Bergen (R-Morris).

The benchmarks did not specify which parts of the economy would be reopened first, leaving that up to a not-yet-established commission.

“People are personally responsible because self-preservation is the most basic human instinct,” continued Bergen. “We can reopen the economy and direct businesses to adhere to strict guidelines. The proof is right in front of us with what current businesses are doing.”

Bergen has been trying to work with the Murphy administration to improve relief for businesses, employees, homeowners and renters since the pandemic began.

“It would not be out of line to close a business for violating safety guidelines, but it is out of line to depress our economy and our constituents,” concluded Bergen. “Personal health before economic health ignores that economic health affects personal health. The long-term problems are bound to be greater than our short-term problems.”
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