New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy is scheduled to issue an executive order Wednesday that will require people to wear face masks outside if they can't socially distance.
Local NBC affiliate New York Channel 4 reports the new rule is in addition to an existing rule on wearing a face mask indoors.
"There's no question that face coverings are game changers. I think we were the first state in America to require them indoors, they've been strongly recommended out of doors. We're going to turn that up a notch today and say we're going to ask you if you can't socially distance then we're gonna, it's gonna be required," Murphy told MSNBC.
The governor acknowledged that while it is difficult to police an outdoor face mask mandate at places like Jersey Shore boardwalks, the rule is necessary because cases are rising.
"If you're congregating with a lot of other folks and there's no social distancing, you can at least get a warning, if not something stronger. Admittedly, this is harder to enforce," Murphy said.
As of Tuesday, New Jersey reported almost 174,000 coronavirus cases.