LWVNJ Statement about COVID-19

Published: March 9, 2020

The League of Women Voters of New Jersey is closely following state, federal, and industry issued updates and guidance regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19). The health and safety of our members is our number one priority. We encourage our local Leagues and our members to put their health and comfort first and to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations.

For more information about voting during a time of Covid-19, please visit the LWVNJ website.

We understand that the work the League does defending democracy and empowering voters is vital, particularly in this high interest election year, and we are hard at work ensuring that we have plans in place to mitigate impact on our programs.

• The League of Women Voters of New Jersey state staff is meeting 3/16 to develop work plans if the office must close. Most staff members can work remotely. If the office does have to close, or f our employees become sick, local Leagues and members should expect delays in response time. However, it is unlikely there will be a complete halt in our services. In addition, the Executive Director is communicating with vendors to ensure the League’s operations are not impacted. 

• The League of Women Voters of New Jersey is prioritizing virtual voter education and census education information. This includes Vote411.org, social media, ensuring proper implementation of online voter registration, emails, and webinars. 

• The League of Women Voters of New Jersey Board of Directors will increase meetings as needed to issue guidance to our local Leagues, and we will communicate more frequently. We encourage you to reach out to your board liaisons with questions. 

Here are several resources that you might find helpful when making decisions regarding your local League events and programs. Please be aware that updates are occurring frequently and the recommendations here might change quickly.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Coronavirus Disease 

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Stigma and Resilience 

• Coronavirus, Non-Profits, and General Health (Center for Non-Profits, 3/6/2020) 

• Non-Profit Risk Management Center (includes helpful information regarding events) 

• New Jersey Department of Health 

We understand that this is an uncertain time and we thank you for your willingness to work closely as we all try to ensure the League can be as impactful as possible. Please consider this a dialogue and reach out with questions, suggestions, and concerns. 

Jesse Burns at jburns@lwvnj.org

Thank you,

LWVNJ Board of Directors