A group of concerned New Jerseyans are banding together to urge Governor Phil Murphy to begin reopening the state for business. The group, comprised of elected officials, business owners, civic leaders, and residents, has presented a proposal to safely unlock New Jersey businesses.

The proposal outlines a timeline for reopening stores, as well as provisions to monitor any negative effects on the pandemic that their suggested staggered reopening might have.

A petition created by the group says that they are asking Governor Murphy to “unlock the economy through a responsible, expedited and decisive plan we have proposed.”

The plan calls for the reopening of retail shops, malls, and restaurants to 25% capacity in the hardest-hit counties, and to 50% in other counties. The plan then calls for an incremental 10% increase per week after the first two weeks, if the data shows that it is safe to do so. The plan outlines how small businesses, including barbershops and salons, can operate safely while open, including using social distancing and other sensible guidelines.

The petition states that “large and small businesses must be treated similarly.” Recently, there has been an outcry over big-box stores like Walmart, Target, and Costco being allowed to open while struggling mom-and-pop businesses are forced to remain shuttered.

To sign the petition, click here. You can also visit the group’s website at www.unlocknewjersey.com