EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 29: New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie speaks at a press conference announcing new objectives to crack down on human and sex trafficking throughout the state of New Jersey, inspired in part by the upcoming Super Bowl, on January 29, 2014 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Christie Spoke along side New Jersey Attorney General John Hoffman and Cindy McCain, wife of Arizona Senator John McCain. The Super Bowl will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ, this Sunday, February 2, 2014. (Photo by Andrew Burton/Getty Images) (Photo by Andrew Burton/Getty Images)

TRENTON, NJ (CBS) – In light of the severe weather, Gov. Christie has declared a State of Emergency in New Jersey.

In addition to the State of Emergency, the Governor also authorized a staggering dismissal for all non-essential state employees beginning at noon.

“Today’s winter storm is expected to produce heavy snow and travel hazards throughout the state, affecting tonight’s evening commute,” said Governor Christie in a release. “I’ve authorized state officials to take all necessary action to prepare, and my Administration will continue monitoring conditions throughout the remainder of the storm. I encourage all New Jerseyans to drive carefully and remain off the roads if possible so that our first responders and public safety officials can safely respond to any emergency situations.”

There was rarely a break from the snow falling in Burlington County Monday.

“It’s getting kind of heavy, it’s piling up pretty quick,” a resident said.

With temperatures not far below freezing it was a slushy, sloppy snow that felt heavy against the shovel and got mixed reviews from drivers in Westampton.

“I-295 is fine, it’s wet. I maintained a good speed, maybe 25 or 30 miles an hour, ” Brian Mulcahy of Westampton said.

In downtown Moorestown, Main Street saw few people out and about.

“I just came out to get a quick workout in,” a resident said.

Some business owners decided it just wasn’t worth it to stay open. Others like Pat McConney, owner of Philly Soft Pretzel Factory, did what they could to draw any customers.

“You shovel, try to get people to at least see that you’re open and invite them in, but enough is enough,” McConney said.

McConney says the winter needs to cut him a break.

“You expect the winter to be slow, but this is just too much. Every week, it’s like when’s the next one coming,” he said.