TRENTON, NJ — Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 381 on Monday, creating an Advisory Council on HIV, STIs, and Viral Hepatitis to strengthen New Jersey’s public health initiatives.
The council, led by the New Jersey Department of Health, expands the mission of the state’s existing HIV/AIDS advisory council to address rising cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and viral hepatitis, with a focus on communities disproportionately affected, including Black, Hispanic, Latino, and LGBTQIA+ populations.
Murphy cited the federal government’s recent removal of public health information from official websites as a factor in his decision, warning that such actions could hinder progress in combating these diseases.
“We cannot waver when it comes to public health,” Murphy said. “I am proud to underscore New Jersey’s commitment to combat the spread of these often co-occurring diseases.”
The advisory council will coordinate efforts to prevent disease transmission and improve care for those living with HIV, STIs, and viral hepatitis.