World News – USA – Testa urges Governor Murphy to allow face-to-face support group meetings to continue – Insider NJ

In the past few days, Governor Murphy has put new COVID-19 restrictions in place, including revised indoor and outdoor capacity restrictions. In response, Senator Michael Testa urged the governor to ensure that meetings of the alcohol and narcotics support group can continue in person, regardless of any constraints on gatherings.

« There are thousands of people in New Jersey struggling with addiction every day, » said Testa (R-1). “Many of these people are in recovery and are currently relying on a 12-tier self-help group like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. It is important that these support groups continue to hold face-to-face meetings. The type of help that someone in these groups receives cannot be duplicated in a video conference session. ”

On 16. November, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order No.. . 196, whereby the meeting limits in the indoor and outdoor area to 10 people or. 150 people were lowered. The new indoor limit came into effect on March 17th. November comes into effect, while the outdoor limit on 23. November came into force.

Experts warned in early 2020 that alcohol and drug addiction, as well as overdose deaths were likely to increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, and they were correct. New Jersey may experience record overdose deaths this year, according to an in-depth analysis by NJ Spotlight.

“Support groups shouldn’t have to turn people away just because they reach an arbitrary indoor capacity limit. Unfortunately, this has already happened in at least one local AA meeting, ”added Testa. “Overdoses are nearing record numbers in New Jersey, and Governor Murphy needs to understand that COVID-19 is not the only public health concern. With people practicing social distancing and wearing masks, there is no reason why these groups cannot continue to meet in person and provide vital services. ”

Support Group, Phil Murphy, New Jersey, United States Senate