Testa renews call for support groups exemption for capacity limits

State Sen. Michael Testa (R-Vineland) called on Gov. Phil Murphy to exempt support groups from lower capacity limits imposed to stem the state’s second surge of COVID-19.

“There are thousands of people in New Jersey who struggle with addiction each day,” Testa. “Many of these individuals are in recovery, and currently rely on a 12-step support group such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. It is vital that these support groups be allowed to continue to hold in-person meetings. The type of help an individual receives in these groups cannot be duplicated in a video conferencing session.”

Opioid overdoses in New Jersey and nationally have risen amid the pandemic, fueled by high unemployment and social isolation.

“Overdoses are approaching record numbers in New Jersey, and Governor Murphy needs to understand that COVID-19 is not the only public health concern,” Testa said. “If people practice social distancing and wear masks, there is no reason why these groups cannot continue to meet in person and provide vitally necessary services.”