AARP New Jersey Applauds Governor Murphy’s Announcement to Extend the Moratorium on Utility Shut Offs through June 30, 2021

Will continue to work with Administration on needed bill payment and arrearage forgiveness programs

Statement from AARP New Jersey Director of Advocacy Evelyn Liebman

NEW BRUNSWICK (March 3, 2021) – “In these times of extreme financial stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many New Jerseyans are struggling to meet their basic needs, including their electric, gas, internet and water utility services. We applaud Governor Murphy for extending the moratorium on utility shut offs so that no household in New Jersey will have its electricity, gas or water shut off for non-payment and no household with children using the internet for educational purposes will lose internet through June 30, 2021.

“The ability to maintain safe, affordable, and reliable utility services, including electricity, natural gas, water, telecommunications, and high-speed internet service is critical for health and safety and to stay engaged with work, education, and loved ones while preventing spread of the virus. This is especially important for older residents who are most vulnerable to the virus and those who are already struggling to make ends meet. Studies show older adults will limit or do without food, medical services and prescription medicine to pay for their higher energy bills.

“Today’s action ensures these critical services will be protected for the more than 500,000 households that are struggling to afford these services, keep a roof over their head and food on the table due to this pandemic.

“We commend Governor Murphy for his leadership on this critical issue, recognizing the hundreds of thousands of families who are still in financial distress. AARP looks forward to continuing our work with the Administration to develop critical assistance and arrearage forgiveness programs to ensure a safe and healthy economic recovery for vulnerable families.

“AARP New Jersey will never stop fighting for the health, safety and financial security of all New Jerseyans. There is still no moratorium on the COVID-19 pandemic and we urge the Administration to continue monitoring this issue and be prepared to extend the current moratorium until we are out of this public health emergency – and for a period beyond as our economy recovers.

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About AARP New Jersey
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. AARP New Jersey educates and advocates on behalf of those 50 and older on issues that are important to them, their families and to all Garden State residents. The organization works to strengthen New Jersey communities with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/nj or follow @AARPNJ on social media.