Gov. Phil Murphy’s executive order to close all non-essential retail business has forced gun dealers, who were experiencing a spike in sales amid the anxiety surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, to shut down.

On Saturday, the online service used to process background checks for firearm dealers, the New Jersey National Instant Criminal Background Check System, told stores they can no longer process requests.

“Per Executive Order 107, (Murphy) is ordering the residents of New Jersey to stay home, directing all non-essential retail businesses closed to the public,” a notice on the online system states. “At this time, the order includes New Jersey Firearms State Licensed Dealers.”

The order does not specifically name gun dealers as a non-essential business. However, it also doesn’t list them among those deemed essential, such as liquor stores, office supply shops and grocery stores.

In Illinois, Gov. JB Pritzker in his executive order considered firearm and ammunition suppliers and retailers an essential business for purposes of safety and security.

New Jersey gun owners and Second Amendment advocates take issue with Murphy’s position on firearm dealers.

“Gov. Murphy surrounds himself with armed guards,” said Alexander Roubian, president of the New Jersey Second Amendment Society. “Clearly he understands the benefit of the Second Amendment. Why is his life more valuable?”

Roubian pointed to the spike in gun sales in recent weeks as proof why these businesses should be considered essential.

“When the police have no legal obligation to protect citizens, which was upheld by the United States Supreme Court, yes, any person would believe gun stores that sell many tools for self-defense is extremely essential,” he said.

NJ Advance Media reported Thursday that gun shop owners were working long hours to keep up with demand.

“It has been relentless,” said Joe Hawk, the owner of Guns & Roses in Toms River.

Hawk said he was fielding calls from desperate customers asking what he had in stock.

“They’re not even asking the price,” he said.

Kyle Sherman, a co-owner of Shore Shot Pistol Range in Lakewood, reported last week having his busiest day in years. On Sunday, he said he can live without selling guns, but would still like to provide ammo.

“I consider us essential business because we not only supply everyday citizens with ammunition and firearms,” he said, “but also local retired and active police officers.”

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Alex Napoliello may be reached at anapoliello@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @alexnapoNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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