In light of inclement weather expected this weekend due to Tropical Storm Fay, Senator Robert Singer today called for the opening of indoor restaurants at 25% capacity with social distancing and CDC compliant sanitization measures in place.

“Sunshine and clear skies currently determine the fate of restaurant owners and employees across New Jersey,” said Singer. “A downpour should not put a damper on a restaurant’s ability to open and stay in business. Today and tomorrow’s rain and thunder are the perfect examples of why restaurants should be able to safely open and operate at a limited capacity indoors.”

Governor Phil Murphy was set to permit indoor dining at 25% capacity, then retracted his executive order at the last minute. The indefinite cancellation particularly impacts businesses at New Jersey shore points that are heavily dependent on their earning over a few summer weekends.

“Mom-and-pop restaurants down the shore must make an entire year’s profits over the span of three summer months,” added Singer. “Local sit-down restaurants that are already struggling due to the shutdown won’t be able to pull through these tough times if the status quo remains in place. I am calling for the Governor to immediately open indoor dining to give our restaurants, especially those at the Jersey Shore, the chance to survive.”