Updated on January 14, 2021 at 12:22 pm
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What to Know
NJ said Wednesday it would expand vaccine eligibility to include those 16-64 years old with underlying health conditions; the largest chunk of that group includes two million smokers in the state
The announcement prompted immediate backlash from people who felt it was wrong for people who choose to smoke, despite the risks, to receive vaccination priority over those who do not
The state defended its decision in an updated statement Thursday, saying its eligibility expansion was in accordance with CDC guidelines; it also encourages smokers to call its quit help hotline