New Jersey residents are now required to wear masks or face coverings outdoors if they are in a situation where they can’t maintain social distance.

Gov. Phil Murphy made the announcement Wednesday during his COVID-19 briefing.

“By and large, New Jerseyans have been outstanding in compliance. But unfortunately, we’ve been seeing a backslide in compliance as the weather becomes warmer, and not surprisingly, our rate of transmission has crept up,” Murphy said.

Murphy said that face coverings are a game-changer in COVID-19 transmission prevention. He says that he knows that the rule will be tough to enforce, but he said that steps need to be taken to save lives.

“Wearing a face covering is not about politics. It’s about being sick or being healthy. It’s about life and health, showing others you care about their health,” he said.

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In Hoboken, a town that has seen a rise in COVID-19 cases recently, News 12 New Jersey crews saw many people wearing masks, along with some without masks. Reaction to the new order was mixed.

“I don’t think it’s necessary walking down the street,” said one resident. “If you’re in a group, maybe. But in a restaurant, eating, you can’t wear one.”

“I think it’s a good idea to make people wear masks, especially now since we know [the virus] is airborne. But it’s so hot, it’s really hard,” said another resident.

Violators of the order can face up to six months and/or fines of up to $1,000. The governor also invoked the "aiding and abetting" statute which can levy the same punishment on people who "knowingly aid or abet" violators.

Exceptions to the order will include children under 2 years old, those who have conditions where wearing a mask would impact their health, and when dining outdoors.