NJ Updates: New Unemployment App, Big Trees, and Clean Air

NJ COVID-19 Updates and More

Do you have questions about when and where you can receive the COVID-19 vaccine, mask requirements, or how to get a COVID-19 test? The State of New Jersey offers up-to-date information, resources, and guidance at our COVID-19 Information Hub.

Applying for Unemployment Just Got Easier

Have you recently lost your job and are struggling to pay your bills while searching for a new position? Unemployment Insurance (UI) provides temporary financial support to people who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. If you find yourself in this situation, you will want to visit the new, simplified unemployment application, available online from the Department of Labor.

Learn How to Apply

Get Your Booster Shot Today!

The CDC recommends booster shots for certain immunocompromised individuals and people over the age of 50 who received a previous booster dose at least 4 months ago.

- Individuals aged 50 and older who received a previous booster dose of Pfizer or Moderna at least four months ago are eligible for an additional booster dose of Pfizer or Moderna.

- Individuals aged 12 and older who are moderately to severely immunocompromised who received a previous booster dose of Pfizer or Moderna at least four months ago are eligible for a second booster dose of Pfizer or Moderna.

- Individuals aged 18 and older who received a primary dose and a previous booster dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least four months ago are eligible for an additional booster dose of Pfizer or Moderna.

Schedule your booster today at covid19.nj.gov/finder or call 855-568-0545.

Find a Vaccine

COVID-19 Testing is Available

It's especially important to get tested if you are feeling sick or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

To get tested:

- Find testing sites near you, including their hours and testing requirements.

- Order a free at-home saliva test, shipped to your home at no cost.

- Order free rapid antigen tests, shipped to your home at no cost.

COVID-19 Testing

Raise Flags for Air Quality

Spring is in the air, but so are pollutants. Elderly people, people with respiratory ailments, and some other groups can be heavily impacted by air quality, which varies from day to day. The New Jersey Air Quality Flag Program uses brightly colored flags that correspond to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Air Quality Index to communicate air quality in your community. By signing up for program alerts, you can help communicate air quality in your neighborhood.

Schools, senior centers, summer camps, and day care centers are among the organizations eligible for free flags, but anyone can participate in the program.

Sign Up Here

Plastic Bag and Polystyrene Ban Now in Effect

New Jersey retail stores, grocery stores, and food service businesses may no longer provide or sell single-use plastic carryout bags and polystyrene foam food service products. Single-use paper carryout bags are allowed to be provided or sold, except by grocery stores equal to or larger than 2,500 square feet, which may only provide or sell reusable carryout bags.

To learn more about the new law, visit Get Past Plastic.

Read More

Join the Big Tree Hunt

Is there a big, old tree in your yard or local park? Is it on the Official New Jersey Big Tree Registry? If not, the state Forest Service would like you to tell them about it.

Throughout May, the second annual Big Tree Hunt is looking for the largest native and naturalized tree species throughout the state. All you need to participate is your phone and a tape measure.

Join the Hunt

Sign Up for the New Jersey Business Update

The Business.NJ.gov Update shares timely information on regulations, financing, and services likely to affect your business. Whether you own a small business, work at one, or like to stay in-the-know, you won't want to miss this weekly email.