May 14, 2020
Governor Murphy announced today the Jersey Shore can open on Friday May 22, just in time for Memorial Day weekend. Although there will be restrictions, the beaches, take out food service and restroom facilities will be open. Showers and changing rooms can open, as can those at county and state parks.
The number of people allowed on NJ’s 127 miles of beaches will have to be restricted. Social distancing – a 6-foot minimum distance – will be enforced for beachgoers, with exceptions for families and household members, caretakers and romantic couples. Beachgoers will be encouraged, but not required to wear a mask.
“To cut capacity, towns could limit the number of beach tags available, or roll out some kind of online or mobile reservation system,” explained Governor Murphy said. “No one will be discriminated against. No community can turn a public beach into a de facto private beach.”
Special events such as contact sports like beach volleyball, concerts, summer camps, and fireworks cannot be held. Bars and dine-in restaurants can only offer take-out and delivery. Waterparks, rides, play areas, games, arcades and picnic areas all have to remain closed," said Governor Murphy.
As we shared with you already, non-essential retailers can open, but only for curbside pickup on Monday, May 18. Non-essential construction site can open as well. Both with restrictions.
Stay safe,
Rich Higgins, CPA
Managing Principal - New Jersey Office
McCarthy & Company
Sources: Small Business Administration and Internal Revenue Service
Disclaimer: This alert is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Information contained in this communication is not intended or written to be used as tax advice, and cannot be used by the recipient to avoid penalties that may be imposed under the Internal Revenue Code. We strongly advise you to seek professional assistance with respect to your specific issue(s).
