March 9 Of Each Year Now 'COVID-19 Heroes Day'

NEW JERSEY - March 9 of each year is now COVID-19 Heroes Day in New Jersey after Governor Phil Murphy signed Senator Anthony M. Bucco's resolution into law.

“From nurses and doctors to grocery store workers and law enforcement, countless essential workers have been working day and night to serve New Jerseyans during these trying times,” said Murphy. “It is my honor to sign this bill recognizing the heroic efforts of those who have been serving on the front lines. These heroes have brought us to this moment where we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.”

The resolution, SJR-82, recognizes all essential workers who have been called upon to keep New Jerseyans safe and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Essential workers in multiple occupations valiantly mobilized to help New Jersey residents during this formidable pandemic, jeopardizing their own health and well-being and placing their lives at risk,” Bucco said. “Our health care professionals, first responders, caregivers, and so many other essential workers have well-earned the recognition of ‘Covid-19 Heroes Day.’ By any measure, these selfless individuals are indeed heroes who displayed great courage and fearlessness in the face of the coronavirus, and I am proud to honor them for their service and sacrifice.”

Essential workers included, but is not limited to: health care professionals, first responders, caregivers, food service workers, postal workers, and transportation workers.

“We couldn’t have survived this past year if it weren’t for the selflessness of health care workers, postal employees, first responders, bus drivers, grocery store clerks and so many more essential employees,” Assemblywoman Aura Dunn said, noting they risked their own lives and safety to ensure that all New Jersey residents had their needs met during the pandemic.

“Our lifeline food industry workforce heeded the call, serving our state in a time of crisis to keep New Jersey residents fed and supplied during the tremendous uncertainty of this global pandemic” said Linda Doherty, President & CEO of the New Jersey Food Council. “The NJFC is in full support of Governor Murphy’s action to create 'Covid-19 Heroes Day,' serving as a constant reminder of the service of these professionals at a time when their dedication and spirit was needed most.”

President and CEO of the New Jersey Hospital Association Cathy Bennett asked where the Garden State would be without our COVID heroes.

“Our Superheroes protect the health and well-being of Garden State residents when they need it most. Thank you to Gov. Murphy and the Legislature for ensuring that their selfless acts will be remembered for years to come,” she said.

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