NJ COVID-19 Updates and More

A new searchable dashboard makes information about police agencies' internal affairs investigations available to the public. The dashboard allows visitors to filter data by law enforcement agency, the types of allegations involved, and any disciplinary action taken.

More than three million residents are eligible for up to $1,500 in property tax relief under the ANCHOR program.

To be eligible for this year's benefit, you must have occupied your primary residence on October 1st, 2019. You must also file (or be exempt from) NJ income taxes. Payments will be sent no later than May 2023.

The deadline for filing is December 30th, 2022.

Despite recent rainfalls, New Jersey continues to operate under a drought watch. The State is asking residents and businesses to moderate their use of water to help protect our water supplies.

Individuals ages 12 and older are encouraged to get a COVID-19 bivalent booster dose, which should be received two months after their most recent booster or primary vaccination series.

These updated COVID-19 boosters offer stronger protections against severe illness and death from Omicron sub-variants. The new Pfizer bivalent booster is recommended for all individuals ages 12 and older, while the Moderna bivalent booster is recommended for those ages 18 and older.

More than 800 sites are expected to stock bivalent booster doses in the coming days. Locations offering the boosters will be updated on the COVID-19 Vaccine Finder and Community Calendar at covid19.nj.gov. The CDC expects to recommend updated COVID-19 boosters for other pediatric groups in the coming weeks.

Monkeypox (hMPXV) is a disease that can affect anyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. The virus can cause flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, and rash. Monkeypox (hMPXV) can spread to any individual from anyone who has the virus through direct contact with rashes or scabs, respiratory droplets from face-to-face interactions, or close, intimate contact.

There is a limited supply of the JYNNEOS monkeypox (hMPXV) vaccine in New Jersey. Vaccination is available at no charge for eligible residents at selected locations by appointment only. Contact your local health department for information on testing and eligibility.

Want to learn the facts about monkeypox (hMPXV), its symptoms, how it spreads, testing, and vaccinations from experts? Watch this webinar from the Department of Health.

988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988 to be connected to trained crisis counselors who will listen to your concerns, provide support, and get you additional help if needed.

COVID-19 cases are on the rise and it is important that you continue to take actions to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19:

• Get vaccinated and boosted
• Get tested
• Be vigilant around the elderly and immunocompromised
• Wash hands frequently
• Stay home when sick
• Learn your treatment options
• Use common sense

The Public Comment Period regarding Proposed Readoption of Personal-Use Cannabis Rules ends September 30th, 2022. Written public comments can be submitted here.