In pre-recorded message in an empty theater, Gov. Phil Murphy says policies such as minimum wage, paid sick leave and expanded family leave help in pandemic.
Republican lawmakers on Saturday called for special state Senate and Assembly sessions before Thanksgiving to approve $300 million in emergency aid for small businesses and nonprofits affected by the pandemic.
A proposed measure calls for $30 million in federal funds to be used to reimburse restaurants for supplies they bought when they thought they were going to partially reopen indoor dining but the plan was put on hold.
Senate votes to create a June 19 state holiday. Assembly votes to commemorate Black Lives Matter each July 13. Neither bill has yet made it to Gov. Phil Murphy.