TRENTON, N.J. (1010 WINS) — New Jersey health care workers and those who work in high-risk congregant settings will be required to get a COVID-19 booster shot once they are eligible or risk losing their jobs.
Gov. Phil Murphy made the announcement Wednesday as he helped open up a new testing site at Stockton University in Galloway Township.
"We are no longer going to look past those who continue to put their colleagues and, perhaps I think even more importantly, those who are put in their responsibility in danger of COVID," Murphy said. "That has to stop."
All health care workers must be fully vaccinated by Feb. 28.
Workers in high-risk congregant settings, such as nursing homes, group homes and jails, will have until March 30 to get their second shot.
Murphy said there will be no more test-out option and exemptions will only be made for health reasons or deeply-held religious beliefs. Boosters will also be required.
"The science tells us that it's no longer good enough to just receive your primary series, as being boosted is necessary to protect yourself and those around you," Murphy said. "Therefore everyone who works in these settings is now also required to get their booster."
The governor added, "Anyone found in noncompliance will be subject to their workplace's disciplinary process up to and including termination of employment."
Murphy said nine out of 10 New Jerseyans have had at least one dose of the vaccine. The booster rate is at about 48%.
The new mandate comes as new COVID-19 cases are decreasing in New Jersey.
"While it appears that the omicron tsunami is finally pulling back we are in no position to say we are on dry ground," Murphy said.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a similar booster mandate for health care workers earlier this month that led to outcry from the nursing home industry already dealing with severe staff shortages.
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