NJ Issues Updated Halloween Rules, Guidance Amid Coronavirus

NEW JERSEY – Gov. Phil Murphy has issued updated Halloween rules and guidance amid the coronavirus crisis (you can see the rules and guidance below).

The update came as the number of cases rose to 212,877 and 14,383 confirmed deaths have been reported. The Garden State had its second daily case total in four months on Saturday, Oct. 1o: 901. Seven more people died.

Murphy said local and state health officials have worked to ensure a safe halloween for all communities, which includes wearing masks – not just Halloween masks – and limiting "touches" of candy.

"Wear a mask that covers the nose and mouth," Murphy said. "A Jabba the Hutt mask is not a substitute."

Murphy also said: "You may wish to dress as a knucklehead but we don't wish anyone to act like one."

Here are some of the rules and guidance:

• In place of placing treats in bags, the candy should be arranged way so that they can be accessed but can't be touched "multiple times."
• Those distributing candy should have treats individually packaged so trick-or-treaters can "grab and go" with no shared bowl.
• Trick-or-treaters and those distributing candy need to wear masks.
• Groups should be limited to household members.
• Groups should stay local.
• Trick-or-treaters should limit the number of homes on their route.
• Social distancing is required for groups who are not all from the same household
• Handing out candy is not recommended.
• Those distributing candy should wash your hands repeatedly.
• Commercially packaged and non-perishable treats are recommended.
• Outdoor trunk-or-treat events can be held, but the number of cars should be limited for social distancing. Lines should be single-file and socially distanced.

Here are the specific guidelines:

"It's more than just a fun activity but a real tradition," Murphy said. "We want to ensure that everyone does it safely."

The state Department of Health is expected to release more guidance either later Monday or later in the week.

Watch Murphy here:

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