Several national movie theater chains have sued Gov. Phil Murphy over his decision to keep theaters closed during the state's gradual reopening during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The suit filed Monday in federal court in Trenton alleges the failure to allow theaters to reopen while houses of worship and other public entities can, constitutes a violation of the theaters' rights to free speech, equal protection and due process.

Among those suing are AMC, Cinemark and Regal. They are seeking an order blocking Murphy from enforcing his order to keep the theaters closed.