Concerns restaurant tents during coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

This New Jersey bill (S 62) allows restaurants to seat patrons under temporary outdoor coverings (like tents or awnings) during the pandemic, provided the cover is anchored and has at least two sides for exit routes. It specifically exempts restaurants from standard snow-load certification requirements if the cover has less than two inches of snow, or if certified to handle snow weight. The bill directly affects restaurants, cafeterias, and food courts seeking to expand outdoor seating safely. It takes effect immediately and expires when pandemic emergency orders end.