The COVID-19 outbreak in 2020 dramatically altered the daily lives of millions of Americans. In addition to the many medical, economic, social, and public policy questions raised by the pandemic are a range of legal issues. These include both short-term legal questions related to the unfolding outbreak as well as longer-term legal issues that are expected to persist in the wake of the crisis.

Among the most immediate questions were those related to matters such as the scope of state and federal authorities concerning quarantine measures; state and national travel and entry restrictions; employment or workplace policies (work from home, etc.); restrictions on occupancy in bars, restaurants, and other businesses; the movement of medical goods; and health care coverage.

Ongoing legal issues may include:

• employment and workplace policies (work from home, etc.)

• development, delivery, and prioritization for vaccines, testing, and treatments

• postponing national elections

• civil liability for COVID-19 exposure

• criminal actions related to hoarding and price gouging

• providing economic assistance to individuals and businesses

• freezing foreclosures, evictions, and debt collection.

In New Jersey, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a series of executive orders and legislative actions addressing the immediate and ongoing legal issues arising from the crisis. The state's authority to impose quarantine measures and travel restrictions was exercised under the emergency powers granted to the Governor. Workplaces were affected by orders mandating remote work where possible and implementing safety protocols for essential workers. Occupancy restrictions were placed on businesses such as bars and restaurants to mitigate the spread of the virus. The state also took steps to ensure the movement of medical goods was not hindered. Health care coverage was expanded in certain areas, including testing and treatment for COVID-19.

Ongoing legal issues include the adaptation of employment and workplace policies to accommodate remote work and ensure safe working conditions. The state has been involved in the distribution and prioritization of vaccines and testing. While there was no postponement of national elections, measures were taken to facilitate voting, such as expanding mail-in ballots. New Jersey enacted protections against civil liability for businesses in certain COVID-19 exposure situations, provided they comply with health guidelines. Criminal actions were taken against hoarding and price gouging. Economic assistance was provided through state programs, and federal aid was supplemented by state initiatives. Additionally, New Jersey implemented temporary moratoriums on evictions and foreclosures, and offered relief for debt collection to support individuals and businesses during the pandemic.