Doherty: It’s Time for Everyone to Unmask

Blasts Gov. Murphy’s Continuing Mask Mandates for Kids at School, Daycare & Summer Camp

Senator Michael Doherty (R-23) issued the following statement in response to Governor Phil Murphy’s continuing mask mandates:

“I support an immediate end to all mask mandates for children, students, and adults.

“As most people are likely aware, the governor announced that his mask restrictions will soon be lifted for adults in many indoor and outdoor settings.

“Unfortunately, children attending school, daycare, and summer camp are not among those who will be permitted to unmask under Governor Murphy’s latest executive order.

“Governor Murphy even said he expects to maintain mask mandates when children return to school in the fall. When children face little risk from the virus and concerned adults will have had ample opportunity to get vaccinated, that’s utterly ridiculous.

“In some cases, the governor is actually imposing stricter restrictions on children going forward, including those who will attend summer camps, by not updating outdated rules.

“While children have been allowed to play sports, including wrestling, football, and soccer, without masks for months, they will be forced to wear masks while playing outside at camp under old rules in place since last summer. That makes absolutely no sense.

“That’s why I’m joining as a sponsor of legislation that will be introduced to prohibit requirements that children wear masks at school, daycare, or summer camp.

“Enough is enough, it’s time for everyone, including our kids, to unmask.”