Gov. Murphy Signs Order To Reopen Outdoor Dining Amid Coronavirus

NEW JERSEY – Gov. Phil Murphy, speaking during a Wednesday news conference, said he's signing an executive order to allow bars and restaurants to reopen outdoors on June 15. He made the statement as New Jersey announced 652 additional cases of the coronavirus and 112 more deaths. (you can watch it here, below).

Murphy, noting that the Department of Health will issue a full set of guidelines and rules later Wednesday, said the outdoor seating will have to be 6 feet apart between people and groups.

Many restaurants and bars may seek to expand their footprint onto shared property or neighboring lots and streets, and he said local officials can make decisions on that.

State officials will also grant special permits to merchants so they can use their liquor licenses on neighboring property.

The update comes as the number of cases rose to 162,068 and 11,880 have died in New Jersey. Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

Severe storms are expected to impact New Jersey this week and may affect management of the outbreak. Read more: NJ Weather: Severe Thunderstorm Watch, Hail, 60-MPH Winds

Could Murphy announce more reopenings on Thursday? Read more: NJ Coronavirus Reopenings: What's Open Now, What's Opening Next

Watch Murphy here:

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