Governor Phil Murphy

This Week in NJ September 25th, 2020

09/25/2020

Governor Murphy Directs U.S. and New Jersey Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Governor Murphy ordered that the U.S. and New Jersey flags be flown at half-staff at all state buildings and facilities starting immediately, in recognition of the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The flags will remain at half-staff until the date of her interment.

“Justice Ginsburg dedicated her life and career not only to the premise of equal justice and equity under the law, but also to the most basic premise that, regardless of gender, or race, or religion, or orientation, or identity, or nationality and ethnic heritage, we all must commit to fight for the things that we care about,” said Governor Murphy. “We have been made a better nation, and a better people, through her reasoned approach and sharp-minded opinions."

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Governor Murphy Announces Intention to Nominate Robert J. Carroll, Esq. to Serve as Morris County Prosecutor

Governor Murphy announced his intention to nominate Robert J. Carroll, Esq. to serve as Morris County Prosecutor.  An experienced attorney with extensive public and private sector experience, Carroll will replace Fredric M. Knapp, who is retiring from the post after serving over six years.  The Governor will make a formal nomination at a later date, which will then be considered by the State Senate. Carroll will serve as Acting Morris County Prosecutor effective as of Tuesday, October 13th. 

“Bob has a long and distinguished resume with experience in both New Jersey and across the Country,” said Governor Murphy. “I am confident that he will bring the same commitment and resolve to the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office that he has already demonstrated throughout his career, including in his current position at the NJTA.” 

“I am humbled and honored to be chosen by Governor Murphy for this important position. I remain dedicated to protecting our citizens, as well as committed to tirelessly working to improve relationships between our law enforcement agencies and the communities which we all serve,” said Carroll. 

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Governor Murphy Hosts Facebook Live Conversation with Dr. Anthony Fauci

Governor Murphy hosted Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) for a Facebook Live conversation. During the conversation, Dr. Fauci commended New Jersey for the measures the State has taken to fight COVID-19. Dr. Fauci additionally answered questions directly from New Jersey residents.

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Human Services Opens Applications for COVID-19 Child Care Tuition Assistance Program

New Jersey Human Services Commissioner Carole Johnson announced that applications are now open for the new COVID-19 child care tuition assistance program the Murphy Administration has created to help families with child care costs as schools open remotely.

The $150 million program will provide child care tuition assistance to New Jersey families with incomes up to $75,000 that are in need of either full or part-time child care due to their child’s remote learning schedule.

Families can apply for this assistance by completing the online application at www.ChildCareNJ.gov. Those applying will need proof of income and a notice or announcement from their child’s school of a remote learning schedule.

“The Murphy Administration is committed to helping working families during this incredibly challenging time by providing support to help address the unanticipated child care costs families face as schools open remotely or with hybrid schedules,” Commissioner Johnson said. “Many working families are struggling to work-from-home or be at essential jobs while their children are attending school remotely.   This new program is here to help and we encourage eligible families to apply.”

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AG Grewal, Consumer Affairs Announce Penalties for Consumer Protection Violations Related to COVID-19

Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal and the Division of Consumer Affairs announced actions against a dozen merchants for consumer protection violations related to COVID-19, with penalties totaling tens of thousands of dollars. Among those subject to enforcement actions are two North Jersey businesses that allegedly made false or unsubstantiated claims in the sale of COVID-19 antibody tests and a Monmouth County business that was selling face masks at as much as six times the manufacturer’s retail prices. 

To date, the Division has sent 1,884 cease and desist letters to retailers suspected of price gouging and other unconscionable business practices during the coronavirus pandemic, and issued 110 subpoenas seeking additional information in its investigations of alleged violations of the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act.

“Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, we made clear that we would take a tough stand on price gouging and other abuses of New Jersey consumers,” said Attorney General Grewal. “Enlisting the help of residents to report unconscionable practices works. Most businesses are following the law. For those that are not, these actions are a reminder that the penalties for violations are significant.”

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