A state of emergency is a situation in which a government has the power to put through policies it normally wouldn’t for citizens’ safety and well-being. It can be triggered by a natural disaster, civil unrest, an armed conflict, a medical pandemic or epidemic, or a biosecurity risk.
The term “state of emergency” is used in various ways around the world, but each country has its own definition and regulations governing the circumstances under which it may be declared. It usually suspends constitutional rights, but it can also grant authorities additional powers and responsibilities. It can be rescinded once the conditions that prompted it have passed.
When the Governor declares a State of Emergency, NJOEM activates the State’s emergency operations plan and brings its staff to full 24-hour capacity to manage response and recovery efforts. In addition, the NJOEM will engage local government and private volunteers from the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) network. These volunteers will assist with critical mission tasks, such as providing shelters, food and water to displaced individuals and families. They will also assist with assessing damage and distributing relief supplies.
The Governor’s declaration does not address restrictions on the sale or provision of goods and services, nor does it address work/life balance issues such as travel restrictions and compensation for employees unable to get to work. Individual companies should address their administrative policies and work/life balances on an as-needed basis, based on their disaster plans and response to the State of Emergency.