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TRENTON – Gov. Phil Murphy said the continued decline in COVID-19 hospitalizations and a pronounced slowing of the rate of increase in new cases means that drive-in gatherings for religious services and drive-by ceremonies to mark events, like graduations, can be allowed under his still-existing, stay-at-home restrictions.
The move provides flexibility to houses of worship, where frustration was building with the ban on gatherings.
A drive-in service will still be subject to regulation. Cars must be at least 6 feet apart, and all windows, moon roofs and other openings must be closed. Participants must remain in their cars throughout.
Pastor Jeffrey McLeod, of the Rio Grande Bible Church, has been engaged in an on-going effort to gain approval for such services, calling the ban an infringement on First Amendment rights. Today, he said, “The prayer has been answered.” McLeod added he has always intended to observe all of the social distancing requirements.
Murphy called the changes a clarification of his restrictions on gatherings and declared that it was in effect immediately, in time for Sunday worship services.
In Middle Township, McLeod said he received a call from Police Chief Christopher Leusner, informing him of the governor’s actions.
Other areas where the governor eased restrictions May 13 includes restarting nonessential construction and allowing curb-side pickup at reopened businesses. The order does not take effect until May 18, at 6 a. m.
