Garden State Times

District 10 lawmakers-Senator Jim Holzapfel, Assemblyman Greg McGuckin, and Assemblyman John Catalano-have expressed strong condemnation towards the Murphy Administration following a scathing report by the U.S. Department of Justice on the COVID-19 policies in veterans homes. Senator Holzapfel criticized the administration's decision to force COVID-positive patients back into nursing homes, calling it "an absolute catastrophe" and emphasizing the need for accountability.

Assemblyman McGuckin echoed these sentiments, holding Governor Murphy solely responsible for the detrimental policies despite objections from Republicans and health officials. He stressed the importance of an independent, bipartisan hearing to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The 43-page report, released on September 7, highlighted failures at the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Homes, accusing the state of causing "unreasonable harm and risk" to residents due to inadequate infection control practices and medical care, in violation of the U.S. Constitution.

Assemblyman Catalano pointed out the lack of action from democrats in investigating the issue during the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of holding those responsible accountable. The report by the Justice Department has shed light on the truth behind the tragic events that unfolded in the veterans homes.

More than 200 residents lost their lives during the pandemic, leading to a $53 million settlement paid by New Jersey in 2021 to families who believed negligence contributed to the deaths. The demand for an emergency session and independent committee hearings by District 10 lawmakers reflects a call for justice and reform in the handling of vulnerable populations in the state's care.