Democrat,

Governor Murphy has outlined several specific metrics that must be reached in order to safely reopen our State, and one of the most significant is on testing. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March, testing was one of our State’s most severe challenges. But through steady hard work and the Governor’s constant advocacy for more resources from the federal government, with the help of our excellent representatives in Washington, testing capacity has increased dramatically. Yesterday, Governor Murphy announced that the State has now met its goal of running an average of over 20,000 tests per day, which is a significant milestone in the Road Back. 

New Jersey now ranks as the fourth highest State in the nation in tests offered per thousand residents, and that ranking is improving by the day. At the same time, the increased number of tests is coming with a lower than ever before percentage of positive results, with only 7% of residents testing positive for COVID-19. Along with the decline in hospitalizations, ICU beds and deaths, this is a positive indication that shows how far we have come in the fight against COVID-19. 

There are now over 164 public and privately operated testing sites in New Jersey, and anyone who wishes to be tested can do so by visiting the State’s COVID-19 Information Hub to find a testing site near you. More tests being done means more data for our public health experts, so getting tested is a key way we can all help in our recovery. 

As we move forward together in this crisis, recognizing milestones like this is an important part of our Road Back to normal. We couldn’t have gotten here without Governor Murphy’s leadership, and especially not without the sacrifices being made by our first responders, medical professionals, essential workers and all of you who are staying home and following social distancing orders. That’s how we will get through this crisis -- by working together. 

Thank you, 

Peg Schaffer
NJDSC Vice Chair