COVID Variant Surge Delay Reopenings/Vaccine, Quarantine Updates

Check out the top news that made headlines this week across the Patch network in New Jersey:

Gov. Murphy: Surge In COVID Variants In NJ Will Delay Reopenings

Gov. Phil Murphy told CNN that New Jersey will have to hold off on reopenings because of the surge in COVID-19 virus variants.

NJ Loosens COVID Quarantine Rules, Citing Expanded Variations

The state has loosened quarantine rules amid the COVID crisis, allowing more interaction in NJ because of expanded vaccinations.

NJ Employers Can Mandate COVID-19 Vaccine, State Says

New Jersey issued rules and guidelines this weekend for getting the COVID-19 vaccine and going to work.

'Maskless Shopping Event' In Freehold Prompts NJSP Investigation

The state is investigating a report of a maskless shopping event at a mall in Monmouth County this weekend.

NJ COVID Vaccines To Expand To Ages 55+, Retail, Many Others

New Jersey has expanded COVID-19 vaccination eligibility yet again. Here's who will be eligible.

NJ School Remote Learning Amid COVID Stops Next Year: Gov. Murphy

Gov. Murphy has no plans for remote learning next school year and expects every NJ district to have in-person five days a week. Here's why.

Social Distance For Many NJ School Students Changes To 3 Feet

Gov. Phil Murphy announced new New Jersey social distancing rules and guidelines for schools amid the COVID crisis.

Gov. Murphy Issues NJ COVID Guidance For Easter, Passover

New Jersey officials addressed COVID-19 guidance for the upcoming holidays, from gatherings to egg hunts to religious services.

Gov. Murphy Clarifies His Stance On COVID 'Vaccine Passports'

A "vaccine passport" would give people who were inoculated against COVID access to planes, big events and other places.

NJ Gym Owner Gives Free Membership To Those Who Aren't Vaccinated

The NJ gym owner who repeatedly defied Gov. Murphy is offering free memberships to anyone who doesn't get vaccinated.

Lakewood Assistant Principal Suspended Over COVID Outbreak: Report

The assistant principal at the school has been suspended as the district looks at contact tracing; 8 people were sickened, the report said.