Statement from DGA Chair Gov. Phil Murphy In Support of Masks For All Bill

Democratic lawmakers have introduced legislation that will require the federal government to eliminate all shortages of face masks and distribute masks to the public as soon as possible. The bill is sponsored by U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont and has over a dozen cosponsors, including Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

Other cosponsers include U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin, U.S. Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, U.S. Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey, U.S. Senator Tom Carper of Delaware, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, U.S. Senator Kamala Harris of California, U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama, U.S. Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts, U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon, U.S. Senator Gary Peters of Michigan, U.S. Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts.

It also has widespread support from public health organizations, including the National Medical Association, African American Health Alliance, Black Women’s Health Imperative, and National Association of Community Health Centers.

Experts predict widespread mask use could save tens of thousands of lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.

DGA Chair New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy today issued the following statement in support of the Masks For All bill:

“One of the most effective ways to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is to wear a mask, which is why all Democratic governors have instituted mask requirements in their states. With widespread use, we can save thousands of lives. While governors have been fighting to find their own testing supplies and PPE, it’s about time for the federal government to show leadership and provide masks to keep people safe.

“The Masks for All bill is a common sense, cost effective strategy to defeat this virus. I urge Congress to quickly pass it so we can ensure all Americans have access to one of the most important tools in our arsenal.

“By safely distributing masks to all Americans, we can mitigate the spread of COVID-19, push back against dangerous misinformation surrounding masks, and get Americans back to work safely.”

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