TRENTON, NJ – Assembly Republican Leader John DiMaio is urging Gov. Phil Murphy to take responsibility for systemic failures at two state-run veterans homes during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, as detailed in a recent State Commission of Investigation report.
DiMaio emphasized the substantial executive powers granted to the governor during health emergencies and pointed out that federal funding had been provided to address pressing issues. He criticized the governor for not adequately using these resources to fix administrative problems and prevent avoidable deaths at the veterans facilities.
The call for accountability follows a report released on September 7 by the U.S. Department of Justice. The report lambasted the state for inadequate infection control and medical care at Menlo Park and Paramus veterans homes. The investigation concluded that the state is providing “unconstitutionally deficient care” at these facilities.