April 15, 2020 - The Washington Township Health Department, in conjunction with the New Jersey Department of Health, reports it has confirmed 56 cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in Washington Township through April 14, 2020. Three deaths have been reported. To protect the privacy of any persons involved, no further information will be released at this time. The Washington Township Health Department is following all appropriate NJ Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control protocols in conducting an efficient and comprehensive follow up, twelve cases have been confirmed as released from isolation.. Washington Township Health Department is identifying close contacts of these cases to determine the need for self-monitoring. According to the state Department of Health, there are 68,824 positive cases of COVID-19 in New Jersey and 3,424 positive cases in Morris County. 

If you’re sick, call your healthcare provider. Call your doctor’s office or hospital FIRST before driving there. If you call 9-1-1 for a true emergency, please cover your face to protect yourself and our first responders. Follow CDC guidelines and stay home as much as possible:

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Avoid handshakes. 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your sleeve (not your hand).

• Get a flu shot to prevent the flu if you have not done so this season. 

• Wear a cloth mask at grocery stores and where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.

Guidance for the Self-Employed on Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES) and Unemployment has been released by the state Department of Labor. Please click this link for more information.

The following bills were signed into law by Governor Murphy on April 14, 2020.

• A-3903  Allows remote notarial acts during Public Health Emergency and State of Emergency declared by Governor in Executive Order 103 of 2020.

• S-2338 “COVID-19 Fiscal Mitigation Act”; clarifies filing and payment deadline for CBT and GIT taxpayers, modifies duration of State Fiscal Years 2020 and 2021, requires certain updates and presentation for State Fiscal Years 2020 and 2021.

• S-2349 Changes date of 2020 primary election from June 2 to July 7.

• S-2374 Concerns family leave benefits during epidemic-related emergencies. Allows employees forced to take time off to care for a family member during the COVID-19 outbreak with up to 12 weeks of unpaid family leave in a 24-month period without losing their jobs.

Mayor Matthew T. Murello