So what will it take for other Grover Norquist inspired "no tax rise EVER" executives and legislators to face reality?
As a New Jerseyan, I support the increase tax increase if it goes to transportation. However, that $10/month increase plus toll costs and other commuting expenses may pose a hardship for some New Jerseyans. Also, why did it take so long to investablish in public safety?
If Christie had raised the tax say 2 or 3 cents a year starting back when he first elected, he could have kept the roads in good enough condition to avoid a 23 cent tax raise today.
Then he could have bragged about how he kept the trust alive with only minimal pain.
Then he could have bragged about how he kept the trust alive with only minimal pain.
How about some truth in headlining, something like:
"Christie Agrees to a 250% Increase in Gas Tax"?
(Not to mention the glaring absence of such
salient details as the day-to-day monetary consequences
of said increase, such as higher transportation costs,
inevitably leading to higher consumer prices.)
And, my personal thanks to the governor for making
sure reviewing the future tax on all my purchases will
require a combination calculator and slide rule.
"Christie Agrees to a 250% Increase in Gas Tax"?
(Not to mention the glaring absence of such
salient details as the day-to-day monetary consequences
of said increase, such as higher transportation costs,
inevitably leading to higher consumer prices.)
And, my personal thanks to the governor for making
sure reviewing the future tax on all my purchases will
require a combination calculator and slide rule.
If this fixes Route 287, I'm down with it. Heck I'd pay a dollar increase in tax. And fix route 1 too. And train system, encourage more public transport.
What took so long Mr. Bigshot?
Tax the poor, so the rich can pay even less. Republican economic policy at its best.
2
I don't disagree with the rise in the gas tax but why is there always a need to compensate the wealthiest by eliminating the estate tax. This I will say again, please read the original intent for the estate tax, it is not to punish the wealthy, it's one of the few ways to confront income inequality, and political power with money influence on a grand scale.
2
Did no one read the other article in this paper detailing corruption in the NJ State Government? It should be required reading for any idiot who thinks a multi-billion dollar tax increase in NJ is a good thing. Giving NJ politicians more money is like giving lunatics loaded guns. This idea that they might actually do something productive with the money (unlike what they've done with all the other tax dollars we've given them over the last 50 - 60 years) is laughable.
4
By all means, raise the gas tax, but how about some lay-offs of NJtransit management as well? Taking a train from Metuchen NJ to Newark airport is often more expensive than an Uber. How on earth does that make sense?
5
I'm ok with a gas tax increase although I believe it is a little too high but a sales tax decrease of under 1% is better than nothing. What I am not pleased about is how the inheritance tax fits into this scenario.
I'm always amazed when the rich, who are the ones that can afford it, get a free ride while everyone else pays.
I'm always amazed when the rich, who are the ones that can afford it, get a free ride while everyone else pays.
11
A mother died in a NJ transit train crash, presumably because of lack of maintenance.
According to Bloomberg article, "New Jersey Transit Rail Reliability Crumbling After Capital-Fund Raids", NJ transit trains went about 83,000 miles between failures compared to LI RR goes more than double the distance and NY subways almost double at 141,000 miles between failures.
Remarkably, the money NJ spends on improving infrastructure is *doubled* by federal money. By not spending money on needed infrastructure repairs, not only was transit being harmed, but NJ was throwing away billions of federal subsidies.
It is puzzling why NJ voters elect a governor elected 6 years ago and legislature that would turn away billions of federal subsidies each year that would be used to maintain an infrastructure that would preform comparably to that in next door NY State.
Perhaps there should be a constitutional amendment that insures that transportation infrastructure is adequately funded.
According to Bloomberg article, "New Jersey Transit Rail Reliability Crumbling After Capital-Fund Raids", NJ transit trains went about 83,000 miles between failures compared to LI RR goes more than double the distance and NY subways almost double at 141,000 miles between failures.
Remarkably, the money NJ spends on improving infrastructure is *doubled* by federal money. By not spending money on needed infrastructure repairs, not only was transit being harmed, but NJ was throwing away billions of federal subsidies.
It is puzzling why NJ voters elect a governor elected 6 years ago and legislature that would turn away billions of federal subsidies each year that would be used to maintain an infrastructure that would preform comparably to that in next door NY State.
Perhaps there should be a constitutional amendment that insures that transportation infrastructure is adequately funded.
7
And yet another shift in the tax structure to benefit the wealthiest residents at the expense of everyone else. Is there no sense of responsibility left among those who have benefited the most? Is there no end to the greed?
6
It's about time. Driving the roads in my local NJ neighborhoods reminds me of a third world country. I do worry about the impact of the tax cut trade offs. NJ is not fiscally stable and we still have huge issues with unfunded state pensions and other key services. Christie has been such a big disappointment given his initial positioning as a responsible fiscal moderate.
BTW- while I'd personally love to pay less in estate taxes, it's just not the right thing to do. I'm not sure how this is balance by an increase in earned income tax credits which should benefit the lower paid citizens of our state.
BTW- while I'd personally love to pay less in estate taxes, it's just not the right thing to do. I'm not sure how this is balance by an increase in earned income tax credits which should benefit the lower paid citizens of our state.
6
It adds up. In stop and go traffic most cars don't get over 20mpg. Lucky me I can afford a 23 cent increase. A lot of people can't. Economist say inflation is steady but food prices are going up along with a lot of other things. Before you jump up and say ride a bicycle and you know how to feed a family four on twenty dollars a week realize most people aren't going to live that way. Just because can afford something and willing to pay, you might be taking away from those that can't.
2
This one comes done to good government being good and ideological government from whatever direction being fatal.
Makes "cents" for a blue state. As the dollar devalues, taxes go up.
1
Will New Jersey now lower its outsized highway tolls? Or will that require bridge maintenance to become a problem (again)?
1
Toll roads in New Jersey are separate authorities with separate budgets. They do not share in the transportation fund in question.
Why did it take so long? Christie is a disgrace
5
This seems reasonable - people who use the roads should pay for them.
2
There should be no sales tax in NJ. People already paid the tax on their income. They should not have to pay a tax when they spend it.
Florida has a sales tax, but no income tax. They tax when you spend it rather than when you earn it. NJ & NY want it both ways.
Broward county wants a 1 cent increase in the sales tax. In Florida they must put it on there ballot and let the voters decide.
No income tax and voter approval of sales tax as well as Homestead property tax exemption are the driving force of taxaholic states loosing their most precious asset, the tax payer and are keeping the tax takers.
Florida now has a greater population than NY. Who would of thought that 20 years ago.
Florida has a sales tax, but no income tax. They tax when you spend it rather than when you earn it. NJ & NY want it both ways.
Broward county wants a 1 cent increase in the sales tax. In Florida they must put it on there ballot and let the voters decide.
No income tax and voter approval of sales tax as well as Homestead property tax exemption are the driving force of taxaholic states loosing their most precious asset, the tax payer and are keeping the tax takers.
Florida now has a greater population than NY. Who would of thought that 20 years ago.
3
I understand what you mean - but part of it is because of the imbalance in the Federal government. NY and NJ are both "donor states" (receive less than we pay into the federal treasury)... Florida is a "receiver state" (receive more from the feds than they put in). That's part of the imbalance. As an aside - people have been moving out of colder climates for 50 years... It's not surprising. But I'd like Florida to "pay their fair share" and NY and NJ receive their "fair share" from the federal treasury.
New Jerseyians are stupid to put up with this thug.
But it's your state...which I am very unlikely to ever visit.
But it's your state...which I am very unlikely to ever visit.
2
Lowering the estate tax as been a bone of contention between Democrats and Republicans for quite a while and it only affects a very small percentage of families. It's not as if, to avoid paying the inheritance tax, the people who made, or inherited, all that money would choose to make or inherit less. Just as an aside, the carried interest deduction falls into the same category of affecting very few people but I digress,
The gist of the problem, as I see it, is that Gov. Christie made a self-serving decision to allow his friend Donald Trump to make $0.17/$1.00 of $30M for a $25M loss for the state. I understand that collecting these taxes has been a problem but Trump still owns assets that should have been sold to meet his obligations. The other unscrupulous decision Christie made was to accept the paltry settlement of $225M from ExxonMobil when the original ask was $8.9B. And these are only the settlements that I know about. For these decisions, alone, Christie should be impeached. Increasing the gas tax would have been unnecessary if Christie wasn't in ExxonMobil and Donald Trump's pockets. He has failed the people and state of NJ on so many levels!
The gist of the problem, as I see it, is that Gov. Christie made a self-serving decision to allow his friend Donald Trump to make $0.17/$1.00 of $30M for a $25M loss for the state. I understand that collecting these taxes has been a problem but Trump still owns assets that should have been sold to meet his obligations. The other unscrupulous decision Christie made was to accept the paltry settlement of $225M from ExxonMobil when the original ask was $8.9B. And these are only the settlements that I know about. For these decisions, alone, Christie should be impeached. Increasing the gas tax would have been unnecessary if Christie wasn't in ExxonMobil and Donald Trump's pockets. He has failed the people and state of NJ on so many levels!
8
As usual there are a lot of partisan comments. For one thing - it's about time they increased the gas tax. NJ's gas taxes were ridiculously low. That said - NJ's road infrastructure costs are disgustingly high. The root of that problem has to be gutted (which won't make the liberals happy). On the other hand - NJ - like NY - loses a lot of wealth because of it's estate tax. Many of the wealthy people either move or establish domiciles in Florida to escape that. Bottom line - the state tax is not really "fair". Taxing a dead person for leaving their assets is certainly not. In any event those who transfer their money and assets to Florida cause NJ to lose tax revenue overall.
2
Very good compromise. The estate tax is theft, period. The gas tax should have been raised long ago.
1
Took a wreck and a death for this guy to act
4
This might be the result of a crooked politian's exposure resulting in a new-found humility, which in turn inspires him to do the right thing no matter how unpopular...
After reading the article and most of the comments posted, there is clearly a disconnect. There are three groups of people commenting: the out-of-staters, the in-state for and the in-state against. The out of staters (excepting hard-core libertarian minded folks) are generally with the in-state for crowd. So my comment is addressed to those two groups.
There is no debate that our infrastructure is in serious disrepair. The issue is not that we need to fix it; the issue is why do we need another tax to pay for it. In addition to every other form of tax NJ residents are subjected to (out-of-staters note we pay an exit tax when we move out of state and sell our homes), we pay astronomical tolls and usage fees ($750/ month on my Ez-Pass). I should add we also pay nearly 15 cents per gallon already as another commenter pointed out. So the issue isn't that we need more money to fix the infrastructure; there's plenty already there. The issue is why haven't we kept up and why isn't it enough. No one in government has answered that simple question and we shouldn't have to pay another extra cent until that is addressed.
I also commented previously and I'll say again, if the tax was intended for something creative like fast speed electric chargers in all major roads, bring on the the tax. It would be positive for the environment, jobs and the future. Paying for road repairs we've already paid for multiple times over, I say repeal the tax.
There is no debate that our infrastructure is in serious disrepair. The issue is not that we need to fix it; the issue is why do we need another tax to pay for it. In addition to every other form of tax NJ residents are subjected to (out-of-staters note we pay an exit tax when we move out of state and sell our homes), we pay astronomical tolls and usage fees ($750/ month on my Ez-Pass). I should add we also pay nearly 15 cents per gallon already as another commenter pointed out. So the issue isn't that we need more money to fix the infrastructure; there's plenty already there. The issue is why haven't we kept up and why isn't it enough. No one in government has answered that simple question and we shouldn't have to pay another extra cent until that is addressed.
I also commented previously and I'll say again, if the tax was intended for something creative like fast speed electric chargers in all major roads, bring on the the tax. It would be positive for the environment, jobs and the future. Paying for road repairs we've already paid for multiple times over, I say repeal the tax.
5
The estate tax phase out is a real poison pill to this amendment. We end up with a hit on the middle class and a giveaway to the very rich, just like everything else under Christie.
14
it is a shame that this increase in the gas tax is due to the recent commuter train accident in Hoboken. Perhaps if the increase would had been approved before, Mrs. Fabiola Bittard Kroon, the mother of a two-year old daughter, and the victim of the accident would still be alive. However, political ideology [NO TAX INCREASES!] is more important than human lives.
11
so, what's the rate now? (14.5/gal, but you won't find that in the article)
They should name the law "Fabiola Bittar de Kroon Law". It took that young mother's death to wake up a state, legislature and governor that pride themselves on having not enough money to do important things, like keep people safe.
7
Government has no right taking any family's money. Such a money grab it's disgusting.
Why doesn't the NY times "investigate" (I know that's impossible), how Bill and Hillary have amassed such a huge gigantic wealth themselves.
Oh, it's for 'speeches.' And expect nothing in return? Paleeze.
The government cut out free dinners and lunchers from drug reps because the government said "doctors can be swayed to prescribe by eating a free lunch."
Is it a double standard when it comes to the Clintons?
Why doesn't the NY times "investigate" (I know that's impossible), how Bill and Hillary have amassed such a huge gigantic wealth themselves.
Oh, it's for 'speeches.' And expect nothing in return? Paleeze.
The government cut out free dinners and lunchers from drug reps because the government said "doctors can be swayed to prescribe by eating a free lunch."
Is it a double standard when it comes to the Clintons?
2
Check out the Clinton tax returns. You will see that they were able to amass their wealth while paying quite a bit of taxes.
If you give Trump as pass on revealing his tax returns, the double-standard is all your's.
If you give Trump as pass on revealing his tax returns, the double-standard is all your's.
16
Unable to focus on the topic at hand? Is your irrational hatred for the Clintons so great? Why don't you save your Clinton rage for one of the many articles the Times writes about them, and address the issue in this article?
4
Trump will likely lose but he will never disclose his IRS returns. Smart man.
RE: Most Americans are unaware of the wonderful roads, tunnels, bridges and bike-paths the Europeans have built in the last 20 years (especially the Scandinavian countries) – we really need to step it up.
Of course Europe has great infrastructure and other goodies. The US has been supporting Europe for over a century: WWI, WWII, Marshall Plan, cold war. And today it continues. Europe spends next to NOTHING on defense because the US spends so much. Time to end that and let Europe and other start pulling their own weight.
Of course Europe has great infrastructure and other goodies. The US has been supporting Europe for over a century: WWI, WWII, Marshall Plan, cold war. And today it continues. Europe spends next to NOTHING on defense because the US spends so much. Time to end that and let Europe and other start pulling their own weight.
8
Do we really need any more gun-brandishing on this crowded planet?
2
Counter factual deflection from the Usual Suspects.
2
Hope some of that extra revenue will go to building a nice prison cell for CC.
13
After this debacle, Steve Sweeney has the gall to ask for my vote for his gubernatorial run??? Again, this regressive grab is another net loss for the poor and middle class in NJ. If a political revolution was ever needed anywhere, NJ is the place for it. Our state government is peopled by craven, self-serving bums. Let's throw them all out. What we need is a tabula rasa!
7
Wow, that's tough one for a left wing liberal tree hugger!
I get the argument for the good of the planet and the climate and the infrastructure - hard to beat that one.
But I also get the regressive nature of the across the board jump in the gas tax - those who will be hit the hardest and those who could care less - again.
I wish there was some way to deflect the cost of gas from those most in need - maybe a gas card like a food card? Gas is a necessity for those working - parameters could be set up for eligibility - proof of employment, no reasonably available public transportation, miles from work or children's schools etc., maybe administered by the same people as the food card program.
I know, I know, the devil is in the details but if you have a better idea as to how to increase the funding for much needed roads, bridges etc, while discouraging gas consumption and not putting an unfair burden - once again - on the lowest end of our economic spectrum, like the flat sales tax - I'm sure we'd all love to hear it.
I get the argument for the good of the planet and the climate and the infrastructure - hard to beat that one.
But I also get the regressive nature of the across the board jump in the gas tax - those who will be hit the hardest and those who could care less - again.
I wish there was some way to deflect the cost of gas from those most in need - maybe a gas card like a food card? Gas is a necessity for those working - parameters could be set up for eligibility - proof of employment, no reasonably available public transportation, miles from work or children's schools etc., maybe administered by the same people as the food card program.
I know, I know, the devil is in the details but if you have a better idea as to how to increase the funding for much needed roads, bridges etc, while discouraging gas consumption and not putting an unfair burden - once again - on the lowest end of our economic spectrum, like the flat sales tax - I'm sure we'd all love to hear it.
2
We have too many in need. The US is becoming a third world country. Will Hillary be the first bankruptcy president?
Republicans---supposedly the party of business---seem to be incapable of distinguishing between an "expense" and an "investment." And they consider any investment in the safety, well-being, education, or convenience of the general population to be an unnecessary governmental expense as opposed to a government doing its job.
10
First Bridgegate, then Trumpgate, and now Taxgate.
What next?
What next?
2
This tax increase would not have been necessary if Gov. Christie had not settled the $8.9 BILLION Exxon pollution law suit for a measly $225 million in 2015. His motive? I can only guess he wanted to get in the good graces with Big Business in preparation for his failed preparation run. It cost him nothing and the State billions. Christie is completely unscrupulous.
13
Yet again, the current Republican math insists "2+2 = 22" and bankrupts a state. We've seen the collapse in Kansas and in Louisiana, the latter SO badly that even though the state is reliably in Trump's column, they elected a DEMOCRAT as governor to try to untangle the mess Bobby Jindal & company left.
And Kansas? A totally failed state, losing teachers, jobs, businesses, etc.
But since Ronald Reagan preached that government IS the problem and lower taxes solve all ills, the only increases in government Republicans want is the military and blocking women from having abortions. Failure is only in the eye of the beholder.
And so, our amazingly incompetent, heartless and self-serving governor is entering his last year. So far, 7 years and in that time only 2 weeks of REAL leadership, 4 years ago.
And Kansas? A totally failed state, losing teachers, jobs, businesses, etc.
But since Ronald Reagan preached that government IS the problem and lower taxes solve all ills, the only increases in government Republicans want is the military and blocking women from having abortions. Failure is only in the eye of the beholder.
And so, our amazingly incompetent, heartless and self-serving governor is entering his last year. So far, 7 years and in that time only 2 weeks of REAL leadership, 4 years ago.
9
This is the same Gov. Christie who killed a plan to improve rail service in the entire Northeast corridor by fixing the rail tunnel inder the Hudson River, and raided the state funds for transportation in the process.
Why don't you peoplw in NJ retire him? Maybe you should send him to jail.
Why don't you peoplw in NJ retire him? Maybe you should send him to jail.
16
This clears the way for Chris' next job:: Trump's Secretary of Energy.
2
AMAZING! Can't manage pension obligations, can't fix bridges & roads...lets more than double the gas tax or we will not be able to fund these projects!....article says the national average for gas tax is .21, why does NJ get .37? Lower our Estate tax? Many states don't even have estate taxes.. NJ has inheritance and estate taxes as well as one the highest real estate taxes, yet we can't get our budgets or priorities in order....maybe Donald can teach NJ's administration how to run NJ like a business?
5
"....maybe Donald can teach NJ's administration how to run NJ like a business?"
@ jay07760 - As if filing for bankruptcy every year is somehow better than this plan.
@ jay07760 - As if filing for bankruptcy every year is somehow better than this plan.
8
Glad you recommend Donald Trump as a worthy tax tutor. He clearly has expertise we could use if NJ needs to declare bankruptcy or cheat suppliers, not to mention failure to pay federal taxes, not to mention no charitable contributions, not to mention valuable lessons in running educational programs.
Yes indeedy, He is an example to us all.
Yes indeedy, He is an example to us all.
9
Not to mention his philanthropy. I mean philandering. I always get those 'p' words messes up
Maybe the money should go to putting Christie and his crooked Republican friends in jail where they belong.
10
How reactionary after the Hoboken crash.
3
WHY couldn't the gas tax be increased to a more reasonable amount, while leaving everything else as is? Why the tit for tat? Governor Christie wanted to brag he never raised any taxes ? What a small claim for such a miserable excuse for a self absorbed Governor who's barely been here in the past 2 yrs! A tax increase would be the least of his sins.
11
About time. Now, makes sure your corrupt donut gobler doesn't misappropriate the funds.
3
its about time.
2
About time.
Will it help me getting over the GW Bridge any faster?
2
It might, if you contribute to the "Charitable Trust" that we can reasonably expect Christie to establish with advice from The Donald. Like Trump, Christie will need that "Charitable Trust" to resolve legal matters.
2
Where does all the money collected from the tolls on the bridges and tunnels in the New York/New Jersey area go? I assume the revenue is shared by New York and New Jersey. I think our tolls are the highest in the United States, but in my experience, New York and New Jersey have the worst roads in the US and the oldest infrastructure. Where does this money go? Why can't some of it go the the depleted Transportation Trust Fund?
6
The Port Authority collects the tolls on the major bridges around NYC. This toll revenue is spent on the full range of Port Authority projects, such as the reconstruction of LaGuardia Airport and the Freedom Tower. The Port Authority is controlled by the governors of New York and New Jersey through appointments.
1
But you really didn't answer the question: where does the money go? The PA collects hefty airport fees and huge rents on its properties. I'm sure there is money to be made in real estate (the Don wouldn't be in that line of work otherwise). The state collects other direct taxes at other crossings on top of Turnpike and Parkway tolls. Oh yes, then there's license fees and registration fees. Then there's the municipal taxes that pay for local roads.
How many more taxes and fees must we pay before there's enough money to pay for this stuff?
How many more taxes and fees must we pay before there's enough money to pay for this stuff?
3
Another Repub that doesn't raise taxes, just like Reagan didn't for ONLY 1 of his 8 years (after making a new law that made social security a 'legally' spendable piggy bank for the government for the first time), or George "read my lips-no new taxes" Bush didn't. Hypocrites. Always yelling about the left while doing the exact same things they yell against!
6
Raise the federal gas tax !
1
Raising taxes? So criminal of you Mr. Christie. Just like closing the bridge. You will get your day in Court, as a defendant. Good luck!
4
Better fill up!
1
Of all the taxes in the US, the gas tax is the fairest of them all. If you own a car and use the roads you pay the tax. If you take public transit, ride a bike or just walk, you do not pay the tax... What could be more fairer than that?
2
Do bicycles ride through the air without touching the road surface?
Someone had to die before the legislature acted. That's some leadership you got there New Jersey!
5
Here in New York, you can save some money by pumping your own gas, something that's illegal in New Jersey.
Perhaps that might be the focus of the governor's next legislative line item?
Perhaps that might be the focus of the governor's next legislative line item?
3
While Jon Whiten is surely correct in his plea against the tax, it is good to know that right or wrongheaded the gas tax may turn out to be, New Jersey drivers will have a brand new infrastructure. =The Colonel
1
"Dear Master Tepper, please come back, we got rid of the estate tax, raised gas tax on working class ... we miss you ... With Lifelong Love on bended knees, NJ Democratic and Republican Politicians" see http://nyti.ms/1TlBoKE
1
Mr. Tepper will probably bequeath it to Carnegie-Mellon University anyway.
Wait, didn't Christie say taxes are ruining America?
Didn't he vow to never raise taxes?
Is this just a distraction from his bridge scandal?
Didn't he vow to never raise taxes?
Is this just a distraction from his bridge scandal?
2
Does anyone see the sleight of hand here? The democrats and republicans just sold you getting rid of the "Estate Tax" through the tragedy of the train crash.
3
Darn! Now I cannot cross the TZ bridge into Bergen County and get full-service cheap gas!
2
The Tappan Zee Bridge has both ends in New York, in Westchester and Rockland counties. You are at least 10 miles to a New Jersey gas station. And you paid one of the high tolls people complained about.
Sure it's worth coming?
Sure it's worth coming?
Mebbe if Chris didn't waste NJDOT funds by, say...using labor and materials to create bogus road closures and traffic jams, there'd be sufficient funds without increasing the gas tax.
I am SO in favor of very thorough housecleaning at ALL administrative levels of the bureaucracy...from the US House and Senate, right down to local levels of Public Works management. Habitual, systemic, fully-matabolized waste from head-to-toe!
I KNOW that with responsible management we could lower ALL taxes while improving our failing public services and infrastructures. Nothing but incompetence, greed, and laziness, as far as our wallets can stretch...as far as the eye can see.
I am SO in favor of very thorough housecleaning at ALL administrative levels of the bureaucracy...from the US House and Senate, right down to local levels of Public Works management. Habitual, systemic, fully-matabolized waste from head-to-toe!
I KNOW that with responsible management we could lower ALL taxes while improving our failing public services and infrastructures. Nothing but incompetence, greed, and laziness, as far as our wallets can stretch...as far as the eye can see.
1
People will featherbed when they don't know when or where their next gig will come from.
NJ- when are you impeaching this guy? He lies to you and supports the apocalypse.
3
"ending a long stalemate"? Wrong. The crash at Hoboken put the politicians on notice and that pig Christie in particular!
2
Too little too late to save himself. Christie may well end up in prison.
5
Christie is a political walking zombie. From presidential aspiration to asking Giuliani for career advice, this man is probably finished in politics. Expect Christie to host his own show on Fox News soon.
8
Gov. Christie is term-limited and the Republicans haven't elected a senator in New Jersey since 1972 (if you consider Clifford Case a Republican). I doubt he is planning anything in electoral politics before 2020.
Look at it on the bright side. Now New Jersey can corral the top spot for most heavily taxed state.
An additional $120/year will not make it jump from 10th worst to number 1. Check your own facts.
Relax everybody. This will relieve the congestion on the George Washington Bridge.
1
New Jersey's growth since the end of World War II has been of the Los Angeles sort -- sprawl created by quick-buck artists. Sure, there are trains into Manhattan operated by New Jersey Transit -- I used one of those trains last night to see Tristan Und Isolde at the Metropolitan Opera. That is not the same, however, as commuting back and forth every day during Rush Hour. If all the drivers who suffer the daily nightmare of driving into the city via the New Jersey Turnpike and the Holland Tunnel, with eternal traffic back-up and exorbitant tolls, were to take the train, the rail system would simply not be able to handle the volume.
1
Why are we taxing ourselves when we could be financing these (supposedly accountable) public projects?
Biggest winners: ultra wealthy who work both sides of the aisle. How do these three men look at themselves in the mirror each day, patting themselves on the back for a job "well done". All three are clueless that income inequality is the single most pressing obsticle facing our country today. Yet these three men voted for the wealthy (again). Why? Because lowing the estate tax creates even one job?! Hardly! Christie, you have less than a year left and you are only trying to help yourself out by getting a cozy "job" with one or your nj estate patrons. Good boy, chris, good boy.
2
The party's over! Goodbye, Montvale rest stop, my last place for cheap gas on my way home to New England. It was fun while it lasted!
2
This is neither a solution nor good policy.
More lanes of highway and better roads do not decrease traffic congestion, CALTRANS CA DOT Study
Damage to roads by trucking (while necessary for modern day logistics) is misused to deliver needless consumer crap not necessities . One 18 wheeler is the equivalent of 9600 cars GAO study
The means to easily reduce and or evade Federal and estate taxes makes the estate tax a straw man. Search for estate tax planning
The US has dropped from 7th to 18th in rank of public transportation investment. CBO
These facts point out the absurdity of a. fixing roads is beneficial vis a vis responsible consumerism, b. political posturing on taxes baseless and untruthful. The $3 increase for a 15 gallon fill up will in no way reduce traffic congestion.
More lanes of highway and better roads do not decrease traffic congestion, CALTRANS CA DOT Study
Damage to roads by trucking (while necessary for modern day logistics) is misused to deliver needless consumer crap not necessities . One 18 wheeler is the equivalent of 9600 cars GAO study
The means to easily reduce and or evade Federal and estate taxes makes the estate tax a straw man. Search for estate tax planning
The US has dropped from 7th to 18th in rank of public transportation investment. CBO
These facts point out the absurdity of a. fixing roads is beneficial vis a vis responsible consumerism, b. political posturing on taxes baseless and untruthful. The $3 increase for a 15 gallon fill up will in no way reduce traffic congestion.
This is not governance, this is reaction in its worst form. I'm not in any way opposed to a long delayed increase in the gas tax (although I can benefit from the low cost of gas in NJ).
And while we don't yet know what caused the NJT crash in Hoboken, we do know that a young woman had to die before Chris Christie reacted to the needs of his state, rather than the "needs" of his party line.
Way to go, Republicans. Look for more of same across the country.
And while we don't yet know what caused the NJT crash in Hoboken, we do know that a young woman had to die before Chris Christie reacted to the needs of his state, rather than the "needs" of his party line.
Way to go, Republicans. Look for more of same across the country.
6
Well, at least the phase out of the estate tax doesn't happen until 2018. Hopefully it can be added back once Christie is out of office. That can't happen soon enough. I am a former New Jersey resident and Chris Christie is an embarrassment to the State.
4
Will any of this gas tax increase go towards improving the on ramps to the George Washington Bridge at Fort Lee?
Just askin'
Just askin'
2
When C.C. rolled on taxes the chandelers in Atlantic City swung.
2
I am ok with this-born and bred connecticut native. tennessee transplant. After all these concerns and issues-why is it suddenly getting attention from the political dum fx in charge, it is pathetic on so many levels.
1
RE: “While it is absolutely essential that New Jersey invest in its transportation infrastructure, that investment should not be held hostage to some warped idea of so-called tax fairness that will cost the state well over $1 billion a year,” Mr. Whiten added. “This is, quite simply, the wrong path forward for New Jersey.”
Leave it to bleeding heart liberals (experts at spending other peoples' money) to think that tax cuts "cost" government money.
Leave it to bleeding heart liberals (experts at spending other peoples' money) to think that tax cuts "cost" government money.
3
That just happens to be the way it's worked out in the past.
1
So, how does Jersey collect the new gasoline taxes from Jersey drives that drive Teslas and other all electric vehicles? Time for Jersey to enact another new tax called the Environmentally Friendly Tax perhaps to zap those tax dodgers.
1
What's next? Pumping your own gas? Welcome to the real energy world, NJ.
2
They might as well write the legislation in blood, since it took a needless American death and scores of injuries to finally prompt New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's passage of this vastly overdue increase.
2
Transportation Trust Fund? How about the Transportation SLUSH fund. Yes it will fix and repair some roads, but the brunt of it will replenish pension funds for state employees.
1
And...the gas tax will go up every year from this point forward. I would be shocked if it didnt.
Of course it will. Governmental bodies at all levels will spend every dollar available to them...then complain that it's not enough.
1
A pity it took a predictable tragedy to budge Christie. But then, he's never been particularly nimble.
2
Christie has been such a screwup. Kills a badly needed new Amtrak tunnel & bleeds NJ Transit dry as well as road and bridge projects just so he can make a run at the presidency as a candidate who ran a state without tax increases. Now, the state's infrastructure is in trouble & people are getting killed. -- Also, never forget he cut Exxon's liability from a lawsuit from 8.9 billion to 225 million. -- Terrible, corrupt leadership.
5
Way to go, New Jersey! Now is a great time for gas tax increases. Wish we would do this on the national level.
But isn't it amazing that Christie insisted that it had to be a swap for *ending the estate tax*? No matter what happens with the modern GOP, no matter how useful or important the law, the rich have to get richer. Astonishing.
But isn't it amazing that Christie insisted that it had to be a swap for *ending the estate tax*? No matter what happens with the modern GOP, no matter how useful or important the law, the rich have to get richer. Astonishing.
6
If there is any justice in this world, Christie will be watching from a federal prison cell while the next governor and legislature work to disentangle and clean up the enormous mess he's left behind.
4
It IS New Jersey after all. The next governor will most likely occupy the cell right next to him.
How New Jersey was snookered into putting this terrible person in office escapes me. Everything I'v ever seen or read about this fool shouts no, no, no.
Oh yeah, don't I recollect the state has a huge unfunded pension situation Christy promised to address seven years ago but so far nothing?
Seems NJ takes the cake for worst run state in the NE.
Oh yeah, don't I recollect the state has a huge unfunded pension situation Christy promised to address seven years ago but so far nothing?
Seems NJ takes the cake for worst run state in the NE.
2
The estate tax elimination feature is a disgrace.
4
Most people probably believe that politicians put their self-interest ahead of the interests of their constituents. Christie, however, takes this to an absurd level. He is just a really bad guy.
5
Ah! Another conservative finally realizing that our infrastructure doesn't automatically regenerate itself at no cost.
1
Christie has now proved that no tax, no development. Trickle down doesn't work at all.
2
In Massachusetts we have an "excise" tax on motor vehicles. An "excise" tax is a USE tax, a tax levied on the use and for upkeep of roadsways. But when you pay it, they'll tell you it's a tax on the ownership of a vehicle, based on the assessed worth of a vehicle.
Nevertheless, even though it is supposed to go to the upkeep of roads, the state allows municipalities to collect it and use it as they wish. So, don't believe the rise in any gas tax, even in states that do not levy excise tax on vehicles, will lead to better roads because in the end, it won't. States have enough money at their disposal for road upkeep, Well, no, I forgot that since 2003, the FEDERAL money that yearly went back to the states for road upkeep (among other things) went down that black hole of a war based on lies. So don't wonder why there's no money for infrastructure. GW Cheney & Company LLC channeled it to their friends through no-bid contracts and a trillion dollar useless war that's still taxing America.
Nevertheless, even though it is supposed to go to the upkeep of roads, the state allows municipalities to collect it and use it as they wish. So, don't believe the rise in any gas tax, even in states that do not levy excise tax on vehicles, will lead to better roads because in the end, it won't. States have enough money at their disposal for road upkeep, Well, no, I forgot that since 2003, the FEDERAL money that yearly went back to the states for road upkeep (among other things) went down that black hole of a war based on lies. So don't wonder why there's no money for infrastructure. GW Cheney & Company LLC channeled it to their friends through no-bid contracts and a trillion dollar useless war that's still taxing America.
1
>>>
NJ's roads are third world, so nothing wrong with raising the gas tax, but it is a regressive tax (it hurts the poor more than the well heeled, simple fact). The problem comes when you cut the progressive tax in a bait and switch game and give the well heeled a break.
The GOP's theme is a simple one: the poor have too much money, the rich not enough.
One needs to look at taxes as a necessary pain, and this pain should be distributed evenly, which of course it is not, quite the opposite.
NJ's roads are third world, so nothing wrong with raising the gas tax, but it is a regressive tax (it hurts the poor more than the well heeled, simple fact). The problem comes when you cut the progressive tax in a bait and switch game and give the well heeled a break.
The GOP's theme is a simple one: the poor have too much money, the rich not enough.
One needs to look at taxes as a necessary pain, and this pain should be distributed evenly, which of course it is not, quite the opposite.
3
what a faustian bargain - - -
a pathetic "exchange" for more-than-necessary infrastructure requirements
versus an 'elimination' of estate taxes ...
the state legislature has no backbone
2
Gov. Chris Christie, probably the next Secretary of Labor in a Trump administration should the unimagineable happen, the man who VETOED a minimum wage increase for workers in his state because it would hurt business, now agrees to a much needed, but clearly regressive tax on gasoline. NJ needs better roads, but workers need to be able to afford it.
1
Finally Mr. Veto had to see a real disaster to approve this tax increase.
If the increase goes to safer roads and bridges, ok. If crooked Christies uses the increase as a present to his crooked construction cronies, not so good.
3
They've been fighting over this increase for years and all it took was a train crash and a woman's death to get them to finally agree to it. Jerseys had one of the lowest gas taxes for years and with the price of gas lowest its been in years this should have already happened.
My first reaction when seeing this headline was "what terrible timing!" Right after the train crash in Hoboken that left many in New Jersey feeling they needed to find a better commute. Now a tax increase telling them driving will now be more expensive. Wow, NJ is in a mess. Broke beyond belief, with an incompetent governor, highest property taxes in the country, trains that can no longer be relied on, and now this. Just... wow. I feel for you, neighbors.
2
I will no longer feel a need to top off my less than half full tank when returning to NY. Gas business in NJ will be taking a hit.
3
They should have considered a sliding scale, where the tax lessens when the price per gallon goes over a certain price.
1
Actually on the first gas tax proposal there was a sliding scale and the fuel tax was a percentage not actually 23 cents. So if they get lower revenues the tax goes higher to fill their coffers. I don't know if this proposal is the same no one reported it that I read
"phaseout of the state’s estate tax"!!!! whatever budget and road improvement you can get from increase in gas tax I still dont understand getting rid of estate tax. The article does not even explore this change. Also what happens when oil shoots above 100usd/barrel mark again?
3
Michigan needs to do the same, ASAP. The issue becomes concerning if the state can't prove that every penny collected from the gas tax goes towards infrastructure repair and maintenance, and not other political pet projects.
2
You assume that pet projects and transportation projects are mutually exclusive.
There is not a pothole in NJ deep or rank enough to bury Christie's political career. He's proven time and again the safety, well-being and economic options of his constituents takes a back seat to his ego, ambition and ruthless greed. Wish we could see him do the 'perp walk' before his term is over, but I'll settle for afterward if it increases his jail time.
9
It's about time that republicans are removed from office. It is time for them to realize their ideology is completely wrong. It is not only about Christie and the NJ lawmakers in this state, but then entire republican ideas. Even though I agree that Clinton is not the best choice, it is time that the democrats have a chance to prove how wrong the republicans really are.
4
As New Jersey collects and spends the taxes on roads and bridges, watch for lane closures, especially on bridges.
1
Christe has shown no leadership, strength or foreseigh regarding this issue. Absent the terrible NJ Transit train accident - which may well have been prevented by investing in the required automatic speed/braking system - my state's transportation infrastructure would still be devolving into wreckage. Quite a legacy you are leaving us Mr. Christe. My only hope is Mr. Trump is never put in a position to allow you to do further damage to our country. As it relates to your state and federal public service: you Sir are a "bridge" too far!
4
I'm tired of hearing that the 'rich' can afford the extra 10-12.00 dollars per month in gas payments for their cars. First of all, let's do the math. I have two cars, of which each take 15 gallons to fill up. 15 gallons x .23/gallon tax is $3.45 per fill up per car. So, I'm going to pay each week an extra $ 6.90.
$6.90 x 4 weeks (on average a month) comes to $ 27.60 per month, not 10-13.00 per month! In a year, I'm going to spend an extra $ 331.20 per year which is real money.
I'm sick and tired, really sick and tired of people saying that the rich can pay this. What defines the rich?? 100,000.00? 200,000.00? 1 million salary + a year? Forget what the statics say. Let's talk reality.
In the end, everyone reading wants to be rich. Everyone. and the ones that beat on the 'rich' are the ones that are jealous they havent been able to attain it. Its the truth, you know it and let's leave it at that but be assured that the 'rich' watch their pennies and dollars and the extra 300.00++ I now have to pay the State of New Jersey, knowing that my State is as crooked as a jagged rock, is not sitting well with me. I'm tired of politicians putting their hands in my pocket. Leave me alone, stay away from me and just do your jobs, something that none of them know how to do. Stop spending my hard-earned money and stop forcing me now to go into another state for cheaper and more reasonable, gas prices for crying out loud.
$6.90 x 4 weeks (on average a month) comes to $ 27.60 per month, not 10-13.00 per month! In a year, I'm going to spend an extra $ 331.20 per year which is real money.
I'm sick and tired, really sick and tired of people saying that the rich can pay this. What defines the rich?? 100,000.00? 200,000.00? 1 million salary + a year? Forget what the statics say. Let's talk reality.
In the end, everyone reading wants to be rich. Everyone. and the ones that beat on the 'rich' are the ones that are jealous they havent been able to attain it. Its the truth, you know it and let's leave it at that but be assured that the 'rich' watch their pennies and dollars and the extra 300.00++ I now have to pay the State of New Jersey, knowing that my State is as crooked as a jagged rock, is not sitting well with me. I'm tired of politicians putting their hands in my pocket. Leave me alone, stay away from me and just do your jobs, something that none of them know how to do. Stop spending my hard-earned money and stop forcing me now to go into another state for cheaper and more reasonable, gas prices for crying out loud.
3
If I would have been doing my job poorly I would have been fired after the first year performance review, much less make it to 7 years and counting.
NJ, thanks to Christie, has Bridgegate and no improvements of roads. He even managed to kill the Bergen County Train system directly into Manhattan. Now he has his name in the papers again giving some speeches after the Hoboken train incident killing a young woman. Indeed things have to be improved but let's wait till Christie is gone.
Hopefully this move will lead to fewer gas-guzzling behemoth SUVs.
1
The last thing the rich need is yet another tax cut. Their taxes should be significantly increased.
2
Which would guarantee that NJ residents establish residence elsewhere before they die.
The gas tax also helps us to conserve fuel - but Christie sliding in the estate tax change is true to form Christie sleaze: rob the poor to give to the rich and starve basic transport in the process so that a young woman loses her life and many are injured.
2
The gasoline price does not help to conserve fuel, because, given the realities of living in New Jersey, demand is relatively inelastic. To put it simply, you can't get from "Point A" to "Point B" in New Jersey unless you drive.
2
Fair point - but some people (re)consider carpooling when gas prices go up & online shopping becomes a little more appealing
Taking the kids to soccer practice is difficult to do online.
2
Yes by all means keep all us from improving our third world roads and if you can't do that make it as difficult as possible under the guise of "no taxes" unless of course they need even more money for the corrupt cops.
Raising the NJ gas tax should have been done years ago.
If NJT was properly funded then safety equipment required by 2015 may actually have been installed preventing the Hoboken Terminal accident earlier this week.
If NJT was properly funded then safety equipment required by 2015 may actually have been installed preventing the Hoboken Terminal accident earlier this week.
More taxation that will never fix the ills of New Jersey which only allows to more over entitlements. It ashame how the taxpayers have become the Public Servants over the last 30 years.
Thank God Christie forced the Democrats to eliminate the NJ estate tax in return for the gas tax. Imagine forced wealthy New Jersey residents to pay the gas tax and an estate tax. There would have been a mass exodus of the rich from New Jersey. To bad Christie will NEVER be President. He would have been even better than Trump in representing the interests of the 1%.
Don't have to pay the NJ estate tax if you establish residency elsewhere before you die.
2
The foul stench of Christie's policies, along with his false conservatism, are laid bare. Add in that he is partly responsible for the accident and death at the train station. If not, who is responsible. Without effective, targeted taxation, you have no society. When you look at Christie, think about the Penguin in the Batman movie. They are the same in their lust for power.
1
They kind of have the same look too!!
The most regressive tax imaginable. So a guy in Newark making < $50K annually who drives 12K miles per year pays the same amount of tax as a fat cat from Alpine driving similar milage who makes $5 million. I would have kept the estate tax and bumped upper income tax bracket marginal rates a point or two, but that's just me. I'm an old Jersey boy who lives in NY, so other than that it's just makes that cheap Jersey gas a bit pricier.
I can hear my Corvette out in the garage weeping. Oh well.
I can hear my Corvette out in the garage weeping. Oh well.
2
The most obnoxious version of this is Christie's own Morris County. The roads are full of aggressive Lexus and Mercedes SUVs, whose drivers obviously don't care at all how much gas they burn as they bully their way down the narrow and overtaxed arteries.
2
Phasing out the estate tax is just a big giveaway to the extremely wealthy.
4
New Jersey has the highest property taxes in the country. Christie's so-called cap of 2.5% annual increase is a joke. Why should my property taxes go up 2.5% every year?
Anyone who thinks that the elimination of the state tax will attract retirees is out of their minds. Retirees are fleeing the state in record numbers and it has nothing to do with estate tax OR gas tax OR sales tax. It has everything to do with property taxes.
Anyone who thinks that the elimination of the state tax will attract retirees is out of their minds. Retirees are fleeing the state in record numbers and it has nothing to do with estate tax OR gas tax OR sales tax. It has everything to do with property taxes.
5
Partly right. The middle class flee because of the property tax. The wealthy do however leave because of the estate tax. Same for NY. There are many "snowbirds" who spend just enough time in Florida to qualify for legal residence. For the cold - but also taxes.
I see $2.15 posted. We've got a couple of no-name gas stations out here on Long Island posting the same price.Given our higher taxes here, I wonder how that's possible.
1
It seems to me most of your readers have got it wrong. The federal government should have raised the gas taxes a long time ago. We are now paying almost 2 dollars less for gas and we can't even afford a $.50 raise? This money should be used for our highways and crumbling infrastructure. Those who use the highways and bridges should be paying for it.
1
Smokers pay a lot of extra tax for their products. Why no fat tax on donuts and twinkies?
Anyone who thinks this new tax will help solve NJ's transportation problems must not have lived in NJ for the last 50 years or so. Taxes are the highest in the nation but there's never enough money to get things done.
3
As long as they direct the funds to transportation and not pensions and paying Christie's legal bills the state has assumed it's fine with me.
All it took was a tragedy. Christie is to be complimented - he finally paid attention to a problem that didn't involve him. What a man! Every pound of him is a man we could all be proud of, except that there aren't enough of us to weigh in on that.
1
Remember, New Jersey, the lesson of New York road toll and gas tax bureaucracy. 90 cents of every toll dollar collected goes to support mass transit in the metropolitan area. Our gas tax, which is the second highest in the country, goes directly to the general fund, to be spent as politicians decide. Meanwhile our roads and bridges are in the worst shape they have ever been. Take a road trip, and see for yourself. But watch out for the potholes.
1
I put the cause of Thursdays train accident squarely on Christie. He has known for years that Transportation Trust Fund was facing a crisis and instead of staying home to walk the hallways in Trenton he decided to fly to Cowboys games and to Iowa and to Trump rallies. He was elected to solve problems like the aging transportation system here in NJ not run for president.
But his ego told him he could do both but he couldn't and the Transportation Trust took a back seat and the roads and bridges and the NJ Transit trains went without upgrades. One of those upgrades was the automatic braking system that would have kept that train in Hoboken from jumping from the tracks and onto the platform where a young mother was killed.
Now he can claim "Well the Dems weren't working with me on a solution", but that's not true. The Dems had no one to work with. Christie wasn't here to walk the hallways in Trenton to twist arms or shake hands and cut deals to fix the fund. Instead they would have to deal with his lackies while he flew off to eat fried oreos.
And who were those lackies he put in charge? You know the Bill Baroni, Bridget Kelly and David Wildstein types that slither around the hallways of Trenton.
It literally took a train wreck to make him realize that he could no longer blame others for his mistakes.
So what is next? The cut in sales tax will lead to budget short falls and our next Governor, who I'm guessing will be a democrat, will have to raise the tax again.
But his ego told him he could do both but he couldn't and the Transportation Trust took a back seat and the roads and bridges and the NJ Transit trains went without upgrades. One of those upgrades was the automatic braking system that would have kept that train in Hoboken from jumping from the tracks and onto the platform where a young mother was killed.
Now he can claim "Well the Dems weren't working with me on a solution", but that's not true. The Dems had no one to work with. Christie wasn't here to walk the hallways in Trenton to twist arms or shake hands and cut deals to fix the fund. Instead they would have to deal with his lackies while he flew off to eat fried oreos.
And who were those lackies he put in charge? You know the Bill Baroni, Bridget Kelly and David Wildstein types that slither around the hallways of Trenton.
It literally took a train wreck to make him realize that he could no longer blame others for his mistakes.
So what is next? The cut in sales tax will lead to budget short falls and our next Governor, who I'm guessing will be a democrat, will have to raise the tax again.
1
Fantastic! Now that they no longer have cheap gas due to taxes New Jersey citizens can revel in the fact that they are collectively among the highest taxed citizens in the United States.
1
So Christie was fine decreasing a tax for the rich (estate) while increasing a tax on the middle class (gas).
2
First tax increase? We used to get a homeowner rebate that disappeared after he became governor, increasing our state taxes...I am not against this tax increase as we need fund for our roads and public transporation. Why did it take the death of a Hoboken resident to convince our governor that the infrastructure was in need of repair?
"I’m authorizing this one because of the importance of the Transportation Trust Fund." But the transportation fund has always needed the money, governor. Agreeing to a tax hike after a person is killed and others are injured shows just how stupid and harmful your anti-tax position has been for so long.
1
Every citizen in NJ knows that any taxes collected will be diverted from their original purpose and will not be used to benefit transit or other public works. Did I hear someone say "pension funds"?
1
This is the case with any dollar of revenue generated at any level of government.
HOWEVER, with transportation, it's even less transparent than you might think. Even if every single dollar is allocated to transportation, which projects will receive funding? Those that are actually accretive to the state's infrastructure inventory or those located in the districts of influential politicians?
HOWEVER, with transportation, it's even less transparent than you might think. Even if every single dollar is allocated to transportation, which projects will receive funding? Those that are actually accretive to the state's infrastructure inventory or those located in the districts of influential politicians?
My first thought - "great, the lower-priced working folks can pay for this! Say, $30-40 a month for a two-income family. Sorry parents, no movie date for you this month. This will allow Christie to bring in those no-taxed companies who bring in low-paying jobs.
1
Remember this. The more vigorously Republicans predict total disaster due to a tax increase, a regulation change, or an improvement in a social program, the more likely it is to be a success. In fact, betting against a Republican's prediction of the future is the closest you'll get to sure fire winner. On the other hand, if a Republican is predicting great success for something they want to do, then run for the hills and be sure to take your money with you.
2
So what if it's been three decades? Are taxes always to rise? The price of gas in New Jersey is going up by ten percent. Everything dependent on gas will see cost increases, and pass them along to customers. This won't help the economy. No wonder Trump was within four points in New Jersey last poll I saw.
Another incompetent fiscal act in the long tradition of New Jersey governors. The gas tax is warranted but where has Christie proposed to fix the budget gap now created by the tax reductions. All we hear is "radio silence". I'm sure Christie will blame it on someone else.
1
Why did spending on NJ infrastructure have to wait for a death, 100s injured and millions of dollars of damage?? If Christie had done his job and not spent his time traipsing around with the country with a tax evader, it may not have come to this.
Despite all the crashes in the northeast corridor, the states have little interest in spending on automatic train control systems.
Despite all the crashes in the northeast corridor, the states have little interest in spending on automatic train control systems.
2
“Sorry it took so long,” Senator Sweeney said. “But we all have strong personalities, and sometimes it just takes time to get together.”
Christie and Sweeney should be sorry for the dead woman and hundred injured in the Hoboken crash. And sorry to all the the commuters for billions of hours lost time in unbearable commutes and to motorists who had more accidents and have spend millions repairing tires and rims due to the sorry state of our roads.
Their big egos and self-serving agendas got in the way of putting New Jersey citizens first. And on "getting together", Christie was all too busy running for President and then working for his thug-buddy Trump to whom he granted a $25m tax break when his failed casinos couldn't pay its bills. Let's lock him up.
Christie and Sweeney should be sorry for the dead woman and hundred injured in the Hoboken crash. And sorry to all the the commuters for billions of hours lost time in unbearable commutes and to motorists who had more accidents and have spend millions repairing tires and rims due to the sorry state of our roads.
Their big egos and self-serving agendas got in the way of putting New Jersey citizens first. And on "getting together", Christie was all too busy running for President and then working for his thug-buddy Trump to whom he granted a $25m tax break when his failed casinos couldn't pay its bills. Let's lock him up.
2
It's about time! The infrastructure is falling apart and must be repaired. Having just returned from Europe I am appalled at how rough, pot-holed and shabby our roads, rails and bridges are compared to Western Europe. To say nothing of our parks, which are a mess compared to Europe.
America the greatest country in the world? Not judging by the state of disrepair we live in.
America the greatest country in the world? Not judging by the state of disrepair we live in.
2
Shameful that it took a major train accident, horrific structural damages to an essential transit hub, commuter injuries, and the tragic death of an innocent woman to get this to happen. Am glad Christie is out next year. These tax increases better be diverted to the states infrastructure and transit system, as necessary.
2
Every day the NJ Transit buses I ride from S Jersey into Philly take a beating from roads that need serious attention. Investing in roads might save operations like NJ Transit a lot of costs.
1
Last time I drove through the state, it was illegal to pump ones own gas in New Jersey. I think NJ is one of only 2 states that refuses to let motorists pump gas, requiring that paid attendants do the pumping.
If the citizens of New Jersey are concerned with the coming price increase in the cost of gasoline, they can simply repeal this outdated law, and allow motorists to fill their own gas tanks.
If the citizens of New Jersey are concerned with the coming price increase in the cost of gasoline, they can simply repeal this outdated law, and allow motorists to fill their own gas tanks.
2
Civilized, good people care of their children and try to make their lives better. I for one, inherited money and it helped make things a little easier. I have since made enough that the estate tax will be a major issue for me. I plan to minimize the tax using every trick in the book so that my kids can enjoy life without worrying about how to pay for it.
1
The real problem is not so much the gas tax increase - in fact, Americans are paying far less than everywhere else, yet we complain incessantly. The real problem is that Christie's massively over-sized ego and slavish fealty to the voodoo economic demagoguery regarding tax cuts uber alles means that the wealthiest in the state will receive the majority of the benefits from this phased-out estate tax, while the average worker and certainly the poor will get nothing. We cannot tax-slash our way to rebuilding our crumbling infrastructure - that is patent nonsense, and it is extremely dangerous, as we have seen with bridge collapses, train crashes, crumbling roads, electrical grid degrading, gas and water pipeline corrosion, and more. That Christie held this necessary gas tax increase hostage to tax cuts for the wealthy is typical GOTP greed and utter lack of concern for the well-being of all Americans. That the Democrats, as usual, caved in to his bombast is a disgrace, and is typical of their feckless, gutless inability to truly shove back against GOTP obstructive intransigence. No wonder most of us are furious.
1
Though you are quite right, this comment should be expanded all the way up to the U.S. Congress.
Oh, how I wish I had enough in my estate to take advantage of the reduced estate tax. And the lowered sales tax really fattens my wallet doesn't it? These politicians all appear to be fat cats who simply do not understand the the hurt imposed on the poor and lower middle class by this increased gas tax.
People who can barely afford to eat but must fill their tanks to get to their fantastic $10/hour jobs while high paid politicians will pay less or no estate taxes. Wow, that this is even considered shows the callousness of our lawmakers.
How is a less that .25% reduction in sales tax going to help those that live hand to mouth, when the cost of going to work will increase by much more daily, weekly, monthly. Their employers won't pay them any more!
Why is there so much resistance to increasing taxes on the rich, unless the pockets of these same politicians will be feeling slightly more of a pinch.
A one percent increase on anyone making more than $100,000 will not hurt them anywhere as much as this gas tax will hurt those in the lower pay scales.
But of course, politicians don't want ti give up any of their money. According to them they make way to little anyway!!!
People who can barely afford to eat but must fill their tanks to get to their fantastic $10/hour jobs while high paid politicians will pay less or no estate taxes. Wow, that this is even considered shows the callousness of our lawmakers.
How is a less that .25% reduction in sales tax going to help those that live hand to mouth, when the cost of going to work will increase by much more daily, weekly, monthly. Their employers won't pay them any more!
Why is there so much resistance to increasing taxes on the rich, unless the pockets of these same politicians will be feeling slightly more of a pinch.
A one percent increase on anyone making more than $100,000 will not hurt them anywhere as much as this gas tax will hurt those in the lower pay scales.
But of course, politicians don't want ti give up any of their money. According to them they make way to little anyway!!!
3
Sadly, the problem is less to do with not enough funding and more to do with state rules forbidding opening up bidding to all competitors. State work has to be union-run, thus ensuring a larger proportion of the state fund is used to pad the unions while not getting the work done on time and on budget.
1
A whopping increase in one of the most regressive taxes imagineable (at least in a state where nearly eveyone has to drive) and elimination of the super-progressive (and pro-"American-way") estate tax. Sounds pretty Republican to me.
BTW, where did we ever get the idea that transportation expenses should be paid for from transportation revenues? Are military ecpenses oaid for by war booty? Do office buildings charge fares to ride their elevators?
BTW, where did we ever get the idea that transportation expenses should be paid for from transportation revenues? Are military ecpenses oaid for by war booty? Do office buildings charge fares to ride their elevators?
1
I thought Christie was still on sabbatical. He's still on government payroll? Trump's comment about America's 3rd world infrastructure is so true when it comes to New Jerseys roads and trains. I just visited Germany and used their trains and mass transit which is 1st class in my estimation. I guess they pay taxes and actually build and improve their infrastructure. Maybe Christie can figure out how they do it and apply it to NJ.
so rather than taking the billions from exxon in a pollution settlement, the governor has decided to increase taxes to cover losses that exist only because of his very own monumentally stupid decision.
why haven't the good people of NJ recalled this buffoon?
why haven't the good people of NJ recalled this buffoon?
1
Another regressive tax increase. Of course the tax rate should be higher. But who it will hit harder?
The Wall Street execs raking in millions per year for ripping-off retirement accounts?
Or the working families trying to keep up with health care, education and spiraling housing costs who Donald Trump says are over-paid with $7.25 per hour?
Right. We know. The rich avoid sacrifice. Again.
The Wall Street execs raking in millions per year for ripping-off retirement accounts?
Or the working families trying to keep up with health care, education and spiraling housing costs who Donald Trump says are over-paid with $7.25 per hour?
Right. We know. The rich avoid sacrifice. Again.
"Sorry it took so long, Senator Sweeney said. "But we all have strong personalities, and sometimes it just takes spectacular human suffering to recall that we actually have a public duty."
1
I see the Republican economic elite protection racket is in high gear again raising taxes on everybody but doing away with the estate tax. That Christie is one big hot mess. I don't know about anyone else but I'm not seeing any empty mansions around that makes for a crying need for more tax relief for the ultra wealthy while everyone else suffers. How badly will this "tax relief" blow a bigger hole in the state budget and does anyone think that the sales tax will not be raised again while the estate tax is gone forever. It's all about the society you want to live in you slob Christie and who's back you want to run government off of. Don't you think the abused middle class has suffered enough of the transferal of the tax load from the wealthy and the corporations by now? Apparently not. Give the "Greatest Generation" their due props, they won WWII and came back to a society that had a top marginal rate of 90% taxation to bay down the war debt. Their offspring, the Baby Boomers? What a bunch of deadbeats more than willing to transfer their public debt to some future generation in search of another tax cut. The millennials will be thrilled when the baby boomers finally leave the scene.
1
Unfortunately we have a similar government-hating anti-tax governor in Illinois. Like Brownback and Christie, Governor Rauner punishes the average citizen with poor infrastructure/schools for the privilege of boasting that he will not raise taxes.
I love my state/country and would gladly invest in them through taxation. They claim to love their state/country, but are unwilling to contribute. It seems hypocritical.
I love my state/country and would gladly invest in them through taxation. They claim to love their state/country, but are unwilling to contribute. It seems hypocritical.
Perhaps the gas tax will force residents to be more frugal about their driving habits, which is a good thing considering the reduction of carbon emissions.
1
If Christie and the legislature don't address the issue of why NJ has the highest per mile cost for repairs then any amount of money is pure wasteful spending! Fix the system first then the roads. Christie has managed to put NJ on the bottom of every list - worst state for taxes, worst state for road repair cost, worst state for business, now we are at the bottom for gas costs! I am just curious how he is going to spin this one to blame the teacher's union - as he does with everything else! And Sweeney is not far behind him.
12
“Sorry it took so long,” Senator Sweeney said. “But we all have strong personalities, and sometimes it just takes time to get together.”
No, what it took was a tragic and potentially avoidable accident that will be blamed on both the Governor and Legislature for their persistent inaction. A train crash and death is what it took to get their attention.
In the end everyone in the government got what they wanted - more money for the TTF, a tax cut for consumers, and a huge bonus for the distant relatives of NJ's Royal Class that wants to pass along their estates untaxed to anyone they pick. Let the dynasties continue!
In the meantime, our roads, bridges and train systems are a sorry mess that should have been maintained and upgraded but, the hatred of union workers and the demands of NJ's Royal Class took precedence.
I wonder how many other people have to die before the NJ government will act on the rest of our state problems.
No, what it took was a tragic and potentially avoidable accident that will be blamed on both the Governor and Legislature for their persistent inaction. A train crash and death is what it took to get their attention.
In the end everyone in the government got what they wanted - more money for the TTF, a tax cut for consumers, and a huge bonus for the distant relatives of NJ's Royal Class that wants to pass along their estates untaxed to anyone they pick. Let the dynasties continue!
In the meantime, our roads, bridges and train systems are a sorry mess that should have been maintained and upgraded but, the hatred of union workers and the demands of NJ's Royal Class took precedence.
I wonder how many other people have to die before the NJ government will act on the rest of our state problems.
12
The article never states the amount of incremental revenue generated by the new gas tax nor does it confirm whether it will cover the full cost of the $32B roads program. It also neglects to share any amounts related to the sales tax decrease and elimination of the estate tax.
In other words the article offers abstract numbers yet fails to communicate the most important information: what is the net financial impact of the various tax changes on the state's coffers over the next 5-10 years?
Incomplete story. Shoddy reporting.
In other words the article offers abstract numbers yet fails to communicate the most important information: what is the net financial impact of the various tax changes on the state's coffers over the next 5-10 years?
Incomplete story. Shoddy reporting.
1
As long as the price of crude oil remains low, a price hike of 23 cents per gallon still would not raise the pump price to anything near what is was five or more years ago. Continued low prices for crude oil, however, are not a given. Moreover, it will take years to realize the infrastructure overhaul -- years during which hundreds of thousands of commuters will suffer financial burden. Remember that not every commuter is an account executive on Wall Street -- most have to work real jobs. Remember, too, that it was Christie who pulled the rug out from under a project to build a new rail tunnel which had already been approved with Federal matching funds.
Perhaps Christie's decision to increase the price of gasoline by 23 cents a gallon is motivated by Christie's petulance at being correctly perceived as Donald Trump's lackey?
Perhaps since Christie may yet face criminal charges stemming from the "Bridge-gate" scandal, with the Star-Ledger among other New Jersey newspapers calling for his resignation, he has decided to slap New Jersey motorists in the face as a last futile gesture of a bully sinking is a quagmire of his own creation?
Perhaps Christie's decision to increase the price of gasoline by 23 cents a gallon is motivated by Christie's petulance at being correctly perceived as Donald Trump's lackey?
Perhaps since Christie may yet face criminal charges stemming from the "Bridge-gate" scandal, with the Star-Ledger among other New Jersey newspapers calling for his resignation, he has decided to slap New Jersey motorists in the face as a last futile gesture of a bully sinking is a quagmire of his own creation?
1
Ah Ha! Another creative way to shift the tax burden from the 1% to the 99%.
In most states that do this the state income tax is cut and the state sales tax is raised (AZ, KS, LA).
Here the gas tax is raised and the estate tax is eliminated. How soon before ALEC and the Kochs adopt this reverse Robin Hood tactic in other states?
Part of this is Obama's fault; with the certainty his level headed, sober, all grown up presidency has created in the fiscal, economic, national security and international areas, the price of a gallon of gas has remained very stable and very low for several years, unlike the wild swings we saw during the unstable, recession prone, war torn Bush years.
People continue to expect 1960s style gas prices, adjusted for inflation, and that makes raising the taxes on them more difficult when in fact it would be the ideal time to raise the federal gas tax.
In most states that do this the state income tax is cut and the state sales tax is raised (AZ, KS, LA).
Here the gas tax is raised and the estate tax is eliminated. How soon before ALEC and the Kochs adopt this reverse Robin Hood tactic in other states?
Part of this is Obama's fault; with the certainty his level headed, sober, all grown up presidency has created in the fiscal, economic, national security and international areas, the price of a gallon of gas has remained very stable and very low for several years, unlike the wild swings we saw during the unstable, recession prone, war torn Bush years.
People continue to expect 1960s style gas prices, adjusted for inflation, and that makes raising the taxes on them more difficult when in fact it would be the ideal time to raise the federal gas tax.
1
Any mathematician can tell you that separation of variables is an essential part of solving problems. Virtually all of physics consists of setting up and solving partial differential equations that isolate each variable to its own dimension.
I think it is a very bad mistake to try to correct economic inequality with tax subsidies like cheap gasoline. Efficient market theory only works when prices fully reflect all costs of products. The problem of insufficient income is a separate issue, which deserves its own dimension.
I think it is a very bad mistake to try to correct economic inequality with tax subsidies like cheap gasoline. Efficient market theory only works when prices fully reflect all costs of products. The problem of insufficient income is a separate issue, which deserves its own dimension.
Republic (return favor for the puerile, inane and relentless use of the noun "Democrat" for the adjective "Democratic") governors who have given endless tax breaks to corporations and the investor class now preside over the country's worst infrastructures, most bankrupt of school systems, and near paraplegic services, burdened with short-staffing and added responsibilities.
Those who have not poisoned their water systems like the still-at-liberty Rick Snyder, or cheated medicare like Florida's Rick Scott, are facing court orders on school funding. A Times article noted the Kansan term "government schools" for the underfunded, foundering system.
All of them will have to find new revenue like Christie. Most of them will hit the middle and low classes who don't fund campaigns.
The continued promotion of Supply Side economics takes on the delusion of our longest and most expensive trial in our history— The McMartin Preschool Trial. I guess if the whole country could believe that, they'll believe anything.
Louise Story's article on how corporations rob public treasuries is the kind of article I always think will change the world. Heartbreakingly it does not. But it should. If our presidential candidate can say this kind of parasitic sucking dry of The Commons is "smart," we know our society will disintegrate over the coming future.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/02/us/how-local-taxpayers-bankroll-corpor...
Those who have not poisoned their water systems like the still-at-liberty Rick Snyder, or cheated medicare like Florida's Rick Scott, are facing court orders on school funding. A Times article noted the Kansan term "government schools" for the underfunded, foundering system.
All of them will have to find new revenue like Christie. Most of them will hit the middle and low classes who don't fund campaigns.
The continued promotion of Supply Side economics takes on the delusion of our longest and most expensive trial in our history— The McMartin Preschool Trial. I guess if the whole country could believe that, they'll believe anything.
Louise Story's article on how corporations rob public treasuries is the kind of article I always think will change the world. Heartbreakingly it does not. But it should. If our presidential candidate can say this kind of parasitic sucking dry of The Commons is "smart," we know our society will disintegrate over the coming future.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/02/us/how-local-taxpayers-bankroll-corpor...
6
The folks who lured factories from the north with tax holidays and regulatory exemptions now find themselves hung by that same petard in competition with emerging nations. Since they can do no wrong, there are only Democrats to blame for it.
1
Christie has given HUGE tax breaks to multinational corporations that threatened to leave the state and take a few hundred or thousand jobs with them. These companies never pay to help upgrade the inadequate infrastructure that people have to use to get to the jobs at these companies. Then they leave anyway after the term of their tax agreements run out. This happens all over Central and North Jersey. All you have to do is drive around formerly bustling corporate parks, which you can see from the highways.
1
Christie has driven this state into the ground with too many overweight trucks and too little road repair.
The whole region has suffered from the anti-mass transit vision of Christie, which by all appearances is driven by politics and vindictive corruption, not policy. Witness: Bridgegate, his dubious legacy.
We could have had a third tunnel connecting New York, New Jersey, and Long Island. We could have had high speed rail. We could have thoroughly revitalized the commercial corridor that lines these routes. Instead, we have Trump and Christie weighing down the whole region with $25Million in tax forgiveness to Trump from Christie, no mass transit initiatives, no bridges, and petty sabotage mixed with 5AM tweets about Miss Universe.
Now finally, when it is too late and New Jersey already looks like sequel to Mad Max, we have a gas tax. Whoopee. Too little, too late, and several indictments shy, starting with Chris Christie.
The whole region has suffered from the anti-mass transit vision of Christie, which by all appearances is driven by politics and vindictive corruption, not policy. Witness: Bridgegate, his dubious legacy.
We could have had a third tunnel connecting New York, New Jersey, and Long Island. We could have had high speed rail. We could have thoroughly revitalized the commercial corridor that lines these routes. Instead, we have Trump and Christie weighing down the whole region with $25Million in tax forgiveness to Trump from Christie, no mass transit initiatives, no bridges, and petty sabotage mixed with 5AM tweets about Miss Universe.
Now finally, when it is too late and New Jersey already looks like sequel to Mad Max, we have a gas tax. Whoopee. Too little, too late, and several indictments shy, starting with Chris Christie.
14
Why should motorists have to pay higher gas taxes to subsidize mass transit which can not pay its own way. The users of such mad transit should pay the full cost of the services they use.
1
This is a prime example of why I'm baffled when anyone in the middle or lower class votes republican.
When republican politicians talk of lowering taxes, those lowered taxes always benefit the wealthy, while the middle and lower classes must time and time again make up for it in one way or another. They make up for it in higher local taxes and other daily taxes such as the higher gas taxes.
When are they going to see this?
When republican politicians talk of lowering taxes, those lowered taxes always benefit the wealthy, while the middle and lower classes must time and time again make up for it in one way or another. They make up for it in higher local taxes and other daily taxes such as the higher gas taxes.
When are they going to see this?
11
This is exactly what Christie wants. He looks like the hero because he finally agrees to raise the gas tax, about a decade too late. But eliminating the estate tax is much more regressive than lowering sales tax back to 6%. Why couldn't they just raise the estate tax threshold to $5M and leave the sales tax a whole number so I can calculate it in my head?
5
Even when all the avenues are closed for a public office, when there is compromise with that republican leader, they have to give a tax break for wealthy. This is one more example that the republican party is for rich people.
6
Someone with an estate of $625K (including their home) is rich?
Aren't both houses of the state's law making body controlled by democrats?
"Democrats also accepted a phaseout of the state’s estate tax"
So Christie finally raises the gasoline tax, and links it to an estate tax cut. Staying budget neutral is a reasonable goal, but his method is very regressive in its overall impact. And in that way is like a lot (but not all) of Republican proposals. No wonder the public is so sick of it that they veer towards extremists like Sanders and even Trump.
4
Like Trump, whose proposed tax plan would make matters even worse.
Don't think Sander's is an extremist just sick & tired of same old business like this sham job perpetrated upon the public
Trump's policies, if one can even understand them, aren't defendable. But then neither is HRC's; hers are just generally more subtle - what was her proposal for the estate tax - only applies to estates of $7.5MM+? Like how many of the 99% have that kind of estate - and HRC's a generally more subtle politico - equivocates & prevaricates like Trump but in a much less transparent than Trump, who's clearly not that sophisticated.
This increase disproportionately affects working people while simultaneously providing an enormous and unnecessary multi-billion dollar tax break for people inheriting large sums of money, eliminating the estate tax is absurd, unwarranted and corrupt.
10
Multi-billion tax break?
The estate tax represents less than 1% of the state's $35 billion budget.
The estate tax represents less than 1% of the state's $35 billion budget.
When regular gas goes below $3 a gallon there should be a federal tax increase to bring the price up to that level. The proceeds go into an infrastructure fund and the purchase of "gas hogs" goes down reducing pollution and extending the life cycle of the supply.
7
Absolutely and completely right! I would go further to 3.50 or four bucks. They could phase it in gradually to minimize the sticker shock. A sliding tax, would further encourage fuel economy while paying for transportation infrastructure. Why do you think no one drives pickup trucks anywhere else in the world?
NO! Three dollars a gallon for regular gasoline is highway robbery. Two dollars is bad enough.
re, Ed in Wausau, WI -- easy for you to say. You don't live in New Jersey. People in New Jersey absolutely need to drive. Take a look at the map. Very few points on that map are connected by mass transportation of any kind.
Gas taxes have been ridiculously low for a long time, but that still belays the point that its a regressive tax. As any good republican, when additional revenues are required by some disaster and can't be ignored any longer they choose to stick it to those that can least afford it.
6
It took a rail accident death to convince Gov Christie that starving the transportation fund for political ideology might not be such a great idea. But like the bully he is, someone had to pay a price for his approval. And someone will, undoubtedly as a result of taking $1B per year out of other services.
Will the decrease in those services result in misery and possible death?
It won't keep the Gov awake. He got his RW talking point.
Will the decrease in those services result in misery and possible death?
It won't keep the Gov awake. He got his RW talking point.
5
The increase in gas falls hardest the working poor.
They live further away from the places of employment than rich and drive older cars.
Therefore, any increase in gas tax needs to be coupled with tax measures that proportionally help the working poor.
There are many ways to do so, but the working poor have no political power. Thus the Democrats in New Jersey did not advocate to make the tax increase revenue neutral for those who can least afford the increase.
They live further away from the places of employment than rich and drive older cars.
Therefore, any increase in gas tax needs to be coupled with tax measures that proportionally help the working poor.
There are many ways to do so, but the working poor have no political power. Thus the Democrats in New Jersey did not advocate to make the tax increase revenue neutral for those who can least afford the increase.
5
I am middle class. I am also a single parent so I do know something about the estate tax, too. I have no problem with a gas tax increase since it is much less expensive, in the long run, than purchasing new tires, something I've had to do more frequently because of the abysmal road conditions. As for the estate tax, it is set at a reasonable level. Why a giveaway to those who don't need it? Their children can earn their own way in the world, like mine.
6
The wealthy would like to pass themselves off as "Middle Class," while the poor at least know that they aren't. Yes, the rich dress down -- but the poor can't afford to dress up.
The term "Middle Class" is tossed about in such a cavalier manner. What is "Middle Class," really? I think it is essentially a marketing category, another demographic invented by hucksters, another false identity for people to assume.
The term "Middle Class" is tossed about in such a cavalier manner. What is "Middle Class," really? I think it is essentially a marketing category, another demographic invented by hucksters, another false identity for people to assume.
This governor has pandered to his rich friends and contractors for years. His arrogance has cost the state plenty in reduced taxes, obviously sub-standard construction, unsafe at any speed trains, unacceptable public education, and other badly needed services. The tire and tow companies have benefitted but the middle and working classes will suffer - again. Federal buffoonery is bad enough, combine that with a very costly state to manage and political waste, laziness, and stupidity, and we have the joke of the nation, New Jersey. What a beautiful state, too. So sadly mismanaged - again.
7
I'm not thrilled with the raise in the gas tax but what incenses me is the elimination of the estate tax. Again the people have to pay for the reduction of taxes for the 1%. The system is definitely rigged for the rich. The reduction of the sales tax by "less than 1/2%" Means nothing. It will rounded up when we make our purchases. Here we go getting screwed again!
8
Then you should vote the democrats that control the legislature out of office.
I notice most who support this are not from NJ. Very brands of them. I personally will vote against any politician that approved this and hope my fellow NJ residents do as well. I do approve 10 cents but 23 cents is discriminatory versus lower income residents who drive
7
The long suffering New Jersey infrastructure hopefully will receive all of the funding generated any the increased Gas Tax. However, if past is prolog, New Jersey's politicians will divert funds to feather their own political nests. Reducing the sales tax and cutting the estate tax on wealthy estates reduces state tax revenues which will lead to cuts in other important state services.
Missing from the Gas Tax bill was an across the board 20% cut to elected official's salaries to offset the tax cuts and preserve vital state budget items. This would be no heartship for elected officials as their jobs are merely part-time jobs to ignore the needs of the very people who elected them to office in the first place.
Another important expense cut would be the elimination of all New Jersey political patronage jobs which would save New Jersey billions in no-show salaries, healthcare, and retirement benefits.
Today New Jersey cannot afford the multiple levels of hidden political corruption, duplication, and job-hoarding that fosters sky-high taxation with little benefit for the people of New Jersey.
Missing from the Gas Tax bill was an across the board 20% cut to elected official's salaries to offset the tax cuts and preserve vital state budget items. This would be no heartship for elected officials as their jobs are merely part-time jobs to ignore the needs of the very people who elected them to office in the first place.
Another important expense cut would be the elimination of all New Jersey political patronage jobs which would save New Jersey billions in no-show salaries, healthcare, and retirement benefits.
Today New Jersey cannot afford the multiple levels of hidden political corruption, duplication, and job-hoarding that fosters sky-high taxation with little benefit for the people of New Jersey.
2
The estate tax represents less than 1% of the state's annual budget.
But your fears about reallocation of gas tax dollars is warranted. A pretty good bet is to not believe anything any politician ever tells you.
Like that old joke - how can you tell when a politician is lying?
His lips are moving.
But your fears about reallocation of gas tax dollars is warranted. A pretty good bet is to not believe anything any politician ever tells you.
Like that old joke - how can you tell when a politician is lying?
His lips are moving.
A few years back, Christie refused to raise the gas tax by 3 cents a gallon which would have staved off a price increase on NJ Transit of $2500.00 per year for my family. If this new tax which should have been phased in a few cents a year over the past decade was implemented, we wouldn't be in the infrastructure mess we are in today. But a Republican to raise taxes for public safety? So people have to die and thousands have to be inconvenienced with catastrophes before the correct action is taken. Christie can't disappear fast enough.
8
It's a reasonable increase. but only if the shyster politicians in Governor's Christie's fair state are forced to spend this revenue on transport infrastructure, such as roads and bridges.
6
They will for a little while, until the smoke clears.
But an even less transparent issue is WHICH transportation projects will get funded. The most worthy projects or those located in influential state legislators' districts?
But an even less transparent issue is WHICH transportation projects will get funded. The most worthy projects or those located in influential state legislators' districts?
Tell me again about how fiscally responsible Republicans are. No rise in the gas tax for decades, while the infrastructure crumbles, making necessary repairs far more expensive than they would have been had they been done in a timely manner. Then, because the infrastructure fund is essentially out of money, they put a big rise into effect. Republicans have told people for decades how evil taxes are. And the Democrats have been unable or unwilling to explain that it's rather simple math....Roads, bridges, schools etc -- cost money to maintain. Any homeowner knows (or quickly learns) this. Fix the small leak before really bad and really expensive stuff happens. Poor roads, etc cost more than good roads. Apparently Christie is taking lessons from Kansas and Louisiana, states totally in the tank economically, thanks to Republicans' "fiscal conservatism." And, yes, let's eliminate the estate tax -- which no one actually has to pay if you leave almost all your money to charity -- A tax virtually only affecting the extremely wealthy. More Republican myths....the money has already been taxed. In most cases, not. Think Bill Gates and the vast appreciation in value of his Microsoft stock...never taxed. Think most big real estate owners who engage in repeated "tax free" exchanges of their properties, never paying taxes on the gains. It really is not that complicated if you are paying attention.
33
Spoken like someone in Florida - with no estate or inheritance tax- while NJs kicks in at an estate value of 650K.
1
It has nothing to do with Republicans vs. Democrats. The gas tax is not an appropriate way to provide funding to fix infrastructure, because the costs fall most heavily and disproportionately on the poor and working class. The FAIR way to fund infrastructure is a PROGRESSIVE income tax, that asks for more from the wealthy.
Both houses of NJ's legislature (you know, the body that actually makes the laws) are run by democrats.
A train crash at Hoboken impels Trump's mistress Christie to do what he should have done when he assumed office.
NJ has, bar none, the worst roads, the most primitive signage, the most clogged, antiquated, substandard system of transportation in the United States. To travel on Routes 4, 23, 17, etc. is to experience wooden power poles next to the road, cars entering and exiting the highways from shopping centers, and exit lanes that lead to the Garden State Parkway without any warning or signs.
To think this state enjoins wealthy Manhattan and provides a means of transportation to Gold Plated Wall Street is to enter a universe of self-centeredness beyond comprehension, for NJ and NY have failed to overcome politics when they were drowning in riches, and the decay of infrastructure is their monument to ignorance and short-sightedness.
NJ has, bar none, the worst roads, the most primitive signage, the most clogged, antiquated, substandard system of transportation in the United States. To travel on Routes 4, 23, 17, etc. is to experience wooden power poles next to the road, cars entering and exiting the highways from shopping centers, and exit lanes that lead to the Garden State Parkway without any warning or signs.
To think this state enjoins wealthy Manhattan and provides a means of transportation to Gold Plated Wall Street is to enter a universe of self-centeredness beyond comprehension, for NJ and NY have failed to overcome politics when they were drowning in riches, and the decay of infrastructure is their monument to ignorance and short-sightedness.
21
"In exchange for Mr. Christie’s acceptance of the higher gas tax, the Democrats agreed to lower the state’s sales tax by less than half a penny and to phase out the estate tax by 2018."
I'm sorry, but I read, and reread, this article and seem to have missed the explanation for why Mr. Christie wanted to phase out the estate tax?
Also, who controls these funds, the Port Authority?
I'm sorry, but I read, and reread, this article and seem to have missed the explanation for why Mr. Christie wanted to phase out the estate tax?
Also, who controls these funds, the Port Authority?
8
The States are stepping in where the Federal Government failed.
Between January 2015 and Jan 2016, 12 US States increased the gas tax, in Iowa by 31 cents to invest more $ in road and bridges.
And it is not just about road and bridges.
For the sake of the environment and the climate the President should have argued for an increase in gas tax when gas prices fell to record lows and Americans returned in droves to driving gas guzzling giant pick up trucks and SUVs.
He did not.
Between January 2015 and Jan 2016, 12 US States increased the gas tax, in Iowa by 31 cents to invest more $ in road and bridges.
And it is not just about road and bridges.
For the sake of the environment and the climate the President should have argued for an increase in gas tax when gas prices fell to record lows and Americans returned in droves to driving gas guzzling giant pick up trucks and SUVs.
He did not.
6
Right, it's the president's fault. I'm sure the Republicans in Congress would've been very keen to work out a deal to raise taxes for the good of the nation. That's been the GOP's raison d'être for years now.
1
But he did. It was in the papers for a day, then promptly ignored. The usual.
I don't know anyone who enjoys paying more taxes. But we have to be realistic and suck it up. NJ NEEDS this money to fix our beat-up roads and bridges. Every day, I drive on those roads and they are a mess. So rather than be petulant, I will hand over a little extra money at the pump to insure better transportation funding. I will hope for more rail projects and improvements, but meanwhile, it would be nice not to cringe as my car drives over roads that are long overdue for maintenance and improvements.
15
You're right. But one point is that as a regressive tax, affecting everyone who drives a car or takes public transportation, the gas tax affects lower income people disproportionately. Making ends meet will be harder for them. On the other hand the estate tax, a tax that affects higher income people exclusively, will disappear altogether.
We no doubt need an increase in the gas tax. Our roads have not been maintained well under Mr. Christie's watch. (If it hadn't been for some federal funds pushed through by Mr. Obama after the crash, I'm not sure they would have been maintained at all!) But it is gloriously tone deaf, it seems to me, to suggest so high an increase in the gas tax, while in the same breath, eliminating a tax that affects only the wealthiest.
We no doubt need an increase in the gas tax. Our roads have not been maintained well under Mr. Christie's watch. (If it hadn't been for some federal funds pushed through by Mr. Obama after the crash, I'm not sure they would have been maintained at all!) But it is gloriously tone deaf, it seems to me, to suggest so high an increase in the gas tax, while in the same breath, eliminating a tax that affects only the wealthiest.
1
This tax, although needed, will most likely end up in coffers unknown, as did the casinos of Atlantic City not help that impoverished community. Where did all that money go? Then there is the secretive Port Authority, another subject of the flaccid infrastructure commuters rely upon.
9
The original plan called for a decrease in the tax on pensions for the state's retired citizens. This would have been a nice benefit for the thousands of middle class NJ citizens that today are leaving the state in mass due to this tax. Instead they decide to eliminate the estate tax that benefits mostly the highest earners in the state. That's another win for Christie's for base. I blame the democratic legislators for agreeing to this. The caved.
10
While not reported in this story, other news outlets have reported that the retirement income exclusion survives, in a four-year phase-in to levels most of us will never be able to take advantage of. Yet the total phase-out of the Estate Tax is coming and is an abomination. More for the 1%, always.
Better late than never but better never late.
Give Christie credit that he is a rare Republican that will raise this tax but by delaying it so long it costs hundred of lives and thousands of injuries to NJ residents and people passing thru by increased leisure driving because of extremely low gas prices.
There is a time to raise taxes, maintain them or lower them.
This was a no brainer re raising them on gasoline. The price will still be relatively low and have minimal impact on business, lives will be saved and crucial tax money will be garnered to fix up NJ's crumbling highways and related areas like RR's, making the latest tragedy less likely.
When the price of gasoline goes too high, the tax can be rescinded, that should be in the law.
Give Christie credit that he is a rare Republican that will raise this tax but by delaying it so long it costs hundred of lives and thousands of injuries to NJ residents and people passing thru by increased leisure driving because of extremely low gas prices.
There is a time to raise taxes, maintain them or lower them.
This was a no brainer re raising them on gasoline. The price will still be relatively low and have minimal impact on business, lives will be saved and crucial tax money will be garnered to fix up NJ's crumbling highways and related areas like RR's, making the latest tragedy less likely.
When the price of gasoline goes too high, the tax can be rescinded, that should be in the law.
5
If New Jersey had been paying a higher gas tax all along they would have kept their infrastructure in good order, built new roads, repaired bridges, and improved transit systems. This is what shared responsibility and good government means. We all chip in for the common good. It is especially appropriate for transportation needs because the people paying the gas tax are the exact same ones using the roads.
Unfortunately, Christie and Republicans in general are fixated on making government unworkable so that they can continue to rail against government and get elected to change things that they have no intention of fixing (just getting elected again).
Unfortunately, Christie and Republicans in general are fixated on making government unworkable so that they can continue to rail against government and get elected to change things that they have no intention of fixing (just getting elected again).
7
New York has the second highest gas taxes in the nation, and our roads are still in terrible shape.
I don't mind the tax to fix roads and infrastructure. We already have the lowest gas prices in the nation. But the cost of road repair per mile is also the highest in the nation. We need to get this under control with proper bidding and less corruption and patronage.
9
It's about time! Now how about increasing the national tax to a reasonable level, capable of paying for road infrastructure?
I would like to point out that federal gasoline taxes no longer come anywhere close to paying for road and highway maintenance. So the balance comes out of general revenue (your income taxes), plus shenanigans like changing the rules on pension funding (so that less is set aside, corporations show a higher profit, and corporate tax income increases). Yes that happened ...
Paying for highway and road infrastructure from income taxes means that we are subsidizing driving. Yes we are treating driving as an activity which should not be expected to pay for itself but needs financial support. It boils down to a net transfer of wealth from those who drive less to those who over-use roads and fossil fuels, expect their mega-commutes to be fast and convenient. As a bike commuter it makes me furious to think that I have no choice but to subsidize this from my income taxes.
Our use of fossil fuels is harming our health, scarring and dividing our communities as more multi-lane highways rip through communities (mostly poor ones by the way), and destabilizing our climate. Why do my income taxes and yours have to subsidize it?
I would like to point out that federal gasoline taxes no longer come anywhere close to paying for road and highway maintenance. So the balance comes out of general revenue (your income taxes), plus shenanigans like changing the rules on pension funding (so that less is set aside, corporations show a higher profit, and corporate tax income increases). Yes that happened ...
Paying for highway and road infrastructure from income taxes means that we are subsidizing driving. Yes we are treating driving as an activity which should not be expected to pay for itself but needs financial support. It boils down to a net transfer of wealth from those who drive less to those who over-use roads and fossil fuels, expect their mega-commutes to be fast and convenient. As a bike commuter it makes me furious to think that I have no choice but to subsidize this from my income taxes.
Our use of fossil fuels is harming our health, scarring and dividing our communities as more multi-lane highways rip through communities (mostly poor ones by the way), and destabilizing our climate. Why do my income taxes and yours have to subsidize it?
4
"As a bike commuter it makes me furious to think that I have no choice but to subsidize this from my income taxes. "
I feel the same way about bikeways that steal a lane, or even two, of traffic off busy roads. And you won't even submit to proper traffic regulation, and mandatory insurance.
I feel the same way about bikeways that steal a lane, or even two, of traffic off busy roads. And you won't even submit to proper traffic regulation, and mandatory insurance.
1
Tolls in this city alone subsidize mass transit to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars a year, not the other way around, including $400 million alone for the money shredding PATH system. They also paid to build the multi billion dollar world trade center and transportation hub. Pray tell, how much are bicylists, who demand all the rights yet none of the responsibilities, willing to kick in to subsidize either the roads or the rails or public real estate? You say you're "infuriated" that a miniscule portion of your income taxes goes to these areas. Join the club.
This was a political joke until it resulted in this week's tragedy. Everyone wants something for nothing. However, gas taxes are the most regressive form of taxation there is, hitting those who are poor the hardest. When do the Republicans end their class warfare and their fealty to the most rich and powerful? Disgusting.
17
You do realize that both houses of NJ's legislature are controlled by democrats don't you?
1
You do know that the top 10% of earners already pay more than 80% of all income taxes collected in this country. You do know that, don't you?
Reality check we have techolgy to create mass transit system once played in show Jetsons . Unforently it wil never happen because to much money to be made on fuel cars presently ruining our invirment an childrens health an future.Build the hyper loop an save our childrens future its our responibiltys to give our children better life
2
We also have spell check technology now....
Commenters look at 23 cents as though it is merely a drop in the bucket for them. There are middle class folks who drive to work and an extra $250.00 a year for gas is not the only thing they will have to pay more for. Rents go up, gas will not be this low forever, food prices increase, the price of clothing increases, and the price of car insurance and medical insurance increases every year as well.
It's nice for some people to say they support this because the roads in New Jersey are in such bad need of repair. They are. But to a Social Security recipient whose monthly check from the government did not increase by one penny over 2015 in 2016 it could mean having to choose between food and medicine. If you're a millenial making $75 to $100,000 a year the 23 cents is something you laugh at. You would not be laughing if you were in your sixties or seventies.
Go to a local supermarket and department store and you will see people working in their their 60's and 70's not because they are bored but because they need to survive. A caregiver driving to an assisted living center or nursing home or private home just had the government take another couple of hundred of dollars from their wallets.
Not everyone affected by this tax increase is a lawyer, doctor, accountant, or businessperson. Sometimes we forget that the people working hard and playing by the rules are the ones who must suffer the most and bear the largest burden and that is not fair.
It's nice for some people to say they support this because the roads in New Jersey are in such bad need of repair. They are. But to a Social Security recipient whose monthly check from the government did not increase by one penny over 2015 in 2016 it could mean having to choose between food and medicine. If you're a millenial making $75 to $100,000 a year the 23 cents is something you laugh at. You would not be laughing if you were in your sixties or seventies.
Go to a local supermarket and department store and you will see people working in their their 60's and 70's not because they are bored but because they need to survive. A caregiver driving to an assisted living center or nursing home or private home just had the government take another couple of hundred of dollars from their wallets.
Not everyone affected by this tax increase is a lawyer, doctor, accountant, or businessperson. Sometimes we forget that the people working hard and playing by the rules are the ones who must suffer the most and bear the largest burden and that is not fair.
16
There are certainly discrepancies of wealth among different age groups but in general, those over 65 have more wealth and younger people have significantly less for a variety of reasons. As a parent of a millennial, I am concerned. I am not looking for older people to suffer, but it is far time we help our young people. This means things like Medicare for all, looking at ways to lower the cost of college, invest taxes in community colleges and state universities (this requires corporations to actually pay their fair share) and renegotiate college debt to tie into current interest rates. A college education should not be a money making venture for a bank. Young people are the ones paying into Social Security and Medicare. Failure to invest in them destroys the future for all of us.
1
Boo hoo. People in their 60s and 70s got us into this infrastructural mess, and no, they don't need to survive past the age of their parents.
Having an excellent road and transportation system is paramount to our success and competitiveness in the world and certainly a convenience to any car driving citizen. Using taxes to pay for it is (shocking) very socialist. ;) And yet, that's what needs to be done. Now as a NJ driver I am not thrilled about a 23c increase, they certainly could have raised it a nickel or dime a few times over the last 30 years. And if they had, a minor increase at this time would not have been such an issue. But that's politics - and trust me, the negative news stories about accidents within the transportation system is what pushed this resolution, nothing else.
8
The increase is only warranted if it does not contribute to more " traffic studies" on the GW Bridge. Sad indeed that employment of political mendicants rather than an apolitical professional cadre controls the Bridges and Tunnels between the two States. Perhaps a reduction of Tolls might be able to save Commuters funds now going to the increased gas tax if patronage was taken out of the equation.
5
Perhaps Christie's close association with Trump played a role in this "deal"; you know, as in, "we will make them pay for it".
But both parties deserve blame on this one - we saw Democrats and Republicans, working together to cut a deal that is, apparently, designed to re-create the 19th Century.
No more Estate Tax, in return for a regressive tax on the working poor - a sweet deal for the 1%, to be sure!
Of course, the Democrats might claim that their real constituency is those who can't afford a car. Any more of these maneuvers, and that will be all of us in the 99%.
Long live the 1% - our democracy would fail without them - who else would pay for the election campaigns?
But both parties deserve blame on this one - we saw Democrats and Republicans, working together to cut a deal that is, apparently, designed to re-create the 19th Century.
No more Estate Tax, in return for a regressive tax on the working poor - a sweet deal for the 1%, to be sure!
Of course, the Democrats might claim that their real constituency is those who can't afford a car. Any more of these maneuvers, and that will be all of us in the 99%.
Long live the 1% - our democracy would fail without them - who else would pay for the election campaigns?
19
The estate tax kicks in at 650K . That's not 1% territory, it's the average homeowner. And why so many people retire to a state other than NJ. Read up and figure it out
3
The long period since the prior gas tax increase (almost 3 years) shows the shameful cowardliness of political leaders. Cars (whether gas or electric) impose enormous costs on society, far beyond just road maintenance. Any gas tax less than something in the $3 to $5/gallon range is, in effect a subsidy when total public costs are considers.
The silliness of federal fuel efficiency standards can be viewed as perhaps a byproduct of the irrational gas tax policies. If all social costs from the use of gasoline for fuel for cars were reflected in the gas tax, there would be no reason to interfere with consumer choice on fuel efficiency.
To the extent higher gas prices discourages driving, a higher gas tax can be expected to save lives (far more lives in fact that the theoretical number, which can by no means be proved, that the EPA claims to benefit from shutting down coal plants).
The silliness of federal fuel efficiency standards can be viewed as perhaps a byproduct of the irrational gas tax policies. If all social costs from the use of gasoline for fuel for cars were reflected in the gas tax, there would be no reason to interfere with consumer choice on fuel efficiency.
To the extent higher gas prices discourages driving, a higher gas tax can be expected to save lives (far more lives in fact that the theoretical number, which can by no means be proved, that the EPA claims to benefit from shutting down coal plants).
5
What many don’t realize is that New Jersians are among the nation’s highest-taxed populations. Our state regularly comes in at or close to the top of studies that determine the least-business-friendly in the country. The ONLY tax we had left that was below the national average was our gas tax. EVERY other one – income, property, sales, sin taxes, were among the highest. Our property taxes are the highest in the country.
The gas tax also is even more regressive than the sales tax, because we don’t tax food or clothing; and almost EVERYONE in NJ drives, often distances, to get to work. This increase will add a very significant burden to the cost of living of our low-income population.
What this says is that we’ve achieved the status of Illinois – we can’t afford to pay any longer for infrastructure maintenance (or anything else discretionary) because of the mandated and state-specific costs of social welfare; and we have their problem of unfunded and unaffordable public sector retirement benefits, as well. These costs increase every year. What other taxes that are already too-high will need to be increased in the next few years to barely stave off Illinois-like insolvency?
The gas tax also is even more regressive than the sales tax, because we don’t tax food or clothing; and almost EVERYONE in NJ drives, often distances, to get to work. This increase will add a very significant burden to the cost of living of our low-income population.
What this says is that we’ve achieved the status of Illinois – we can’t afford to pay any longer for infrastructure maintenance (or anything else discretionary) because of the mandated and state-specific costs of social welfare; and we have their problem of unfunded and unaffordable public sector retirement benefits, as well. These costs increase every year. What other taxes that are already too-high will need to be increased in the next few years to barely stave off Illinois-like insolvency?
5
The real answer, at this point, is a reversal of the boroughitis of 1894. New Jersey cannot afford 600 plus municipalities. Phase out state aid to municipalities under 50,000 people and watch the merger mania begin.
Well, you don't have the highest estate tax (in this deal it is now ZERO)! Christie seems to be doing his best to ensure the highest tax rates per household is shouldered by the middle class. Why are you so worried about social welfare? How can someone in good conscience be so worried about what the poor and downtrodden are receiving when the wealthy are getting yet another free pass?
1
Well, the gas party's over. The state desperately needs the money to keep its infrastructure basted together. However, NJ does have pretty much the highest taxes in the nation. One of the problem with having the highest tax rates is that taxes will only go up, as we see with the gas tax increase.
An antidote is public transportation, which Jersey has and dwarfs any other state with the exception of NY; however, it's not good enough. The massive amounts of commuters who have moved to the Jersey Shore over the many years can find busses, and a train, but most still drive. The gas tax increase affects their bottom line.
On the other hand, if the roads and bridges deteriorate, and they do, that affects their bottom line as well.
It looks like when I drive to Ohio I'll reminisce on lower gas prices.
An antidote is public transportation, which Jersey has and dwarfs any other state with the exception of NY; however, it's not good enough. The massive amounts of commuters who have moved to the Jersey Shore over the many years can find busses, and a train, but most still drive. The gas tax increase affects their bottom line.
On the other hand, if the roads and bridges deteriorate, and they do, that affects their bottom line as well.
It looks like when I drive to Ohio I'll reminisce on lower gas prices.
3
Tax someone else, not me!
5
What we should do is dedicate the estate tax, part of the sales tax and the fees/taxes collected by the motor vehicle commission to the highway trust fund and outlaw using highway trust fund at the discretion of the governor. I'm a little guy who drives 100s of miles a day, at my expense, every day for work.
9
The gas tax should be higher, and only a portion of the gas tax should go to roads. The support of roads is destroying the environment, and the more the cost is borne by drivers, rather than everyone else, the better. Even then, much of the gas tax should be directed toward better mass transit. Suburbs, and the car culture it engenders, need less support as we move into the 21st century.
2
You better rush down to Toyota and buy a new or used Prius
Wow! If lived in New Jersey, such a tax increase increase would make me think twice of continuing to live there. I would immediately begin looking for more reasonable places to live. I would look for a state without a state income tax as well. I live in the Volunteer State. For those of you who don't know, the Volunteer State is Tennessee! Tennessee does not have a state income, and somehow manages to run a budget surplus on sales taxes alone. So the liberal argument for state and other local taxes goes out the door when you look at Tennessee. So if you folks in New Jersey want to move down here to Tennessee to avoid high taxes, such as this onerous gas tax, we will welcome you with open arms. Come on down!
14
NJ regular gas is $1.98 per gallon. TN regular gasoline is $2.14 pe gallon.
With a 23-cent per gallon tax increase, NJ regular gas will be $2.21 per gallon, still on the low side nationally. Plus, all gas stations in NJ are full service; it is against the law to pump your own gas.
With a 23-cent per gallon tax increase, NJ regular gas will be $2.21 per gallon, still on the low side nationally. Plus, all gas stations in NJ are full service; it is against the law to pump your own gas.
7
Check the facts. They portray a different image of Tennessee. With only a couple small exceptions, its volunteers live in one of the harder places to live in the United States, while New Jersey’s residents fair much better, population density not considered. That difference in quality of life is partly a reflection of the return on investment by each state’s tax policies. Cultural expectations, such as the “don’t tax me” mindset that pervades the rural south, yield substandard education systems, are less attractive to companies seeking skilled employees, and result in lower overall income per household numbers. Appalachia is no model for a great America. Check your facts: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/26/upshot/where-are-the-hardest-places-to...
10
I am originally from Tennessee and left at nineteen. My sister called yesterday, just out of a meeting concerning our autistic brother. Such services for the population of that state are being reduced, yet again. Thanks be that those already in the system will have their level grandfathered in. Tennessee, a place where the poor needing dialysis may die for lack, and that level of caring is reflected in these new cuts. Some surplus. Tennessee, a great place to be FROM, for this Volunteer for self exile.
9
So, "the need to maintain the State's transportation infrastructure is so critical" now? Has it been less critical for Governor Construction Cone during the preceding seven years? If so, New Jersey train passengers and bridge and tunnel users might disagree.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
www.endthemadnessnow.org
15
Good for NJ for unwittingly demonstrating environmental responsibility for the public good. The universal, long term benefit of a gas tax that is not discussed here is the influence the cost increase will have on driving behaviors. There is an indisputable positive correlation of the cost of gasoline and the number of miles driven by car owners. And many, many people on the choked NJ highways do have an alternative public transportation option they have not exercised simply because it wasn't financially imperative. If a 23 cent tax on a gallon of gas is a game changer that forces them to park their car and take public transportation, then it is a very good thing.
14
More often than not there is no practical public transportation alternative if one is trying to get from one place in NJ to another place in NJ. Very easy to get into and out of Manhattan, very hard, if not impractical or impossible, to get from point A to point B intra-New Jersey. A half hour car ride can easily turn into an hour and a half public trans ride that still strands you far from your destination. The people who will be most affected are the poor and the New York drivers who fill up on their way back home through NJ. New Jersey residents will continue to drive because basically it's the only game in town. There is a reason that pretty much every adult in the state needs his/her own car.
7
The gas tax increase might even influence a few people to buy a 2500 pound car which will serve their purposes quite well,, instead of a 6000 pound truck, when they buy their next vehicle.
Try riding New Jersey Transit sometime and get back to me on that.
And Christie could care less about the environment.
And Christie could care less about the environment.
1
I love the giant streak of bird droppings on the car in this photo. Well done!
11
I am all for better roads but mismanagement by the Christie administration makes it hard to like this tax increase on hard working New Jersey residents. Christie has had no problem wasting our tax payer dollars on his legal defense, his failed for President and the helicopter rides to his kids baseball games. Probably could have avoided this tax increase if he reigned in those expenses.
30
As Christie might say, Stop whining, you have been paying the lowest gas tax on the East Coast for thirty years. Shut up, sell your guzzler, and buy a Prius.
Hey NJ voter.
Did you vote for Christie three years ago?
Did you vote for Christie three years ago?
1
Purchase an electric car. Electric car technology in the past two years have propelled cars from 25 miles to one charge to over 200 miles per charge.
These 200+ cars will make their debut later this year and next. Therefore, there will be a fire sale on models that currently achieve 25-145 miles per charge and perhaps even the hybrids that usually average 40 miles per gallon.
So the next time you are in a traffic jam trying to cross one of those bridges after having paid a toll, you will enjoy the fact that you paid NO gas tax for that EV you drive.
Interested? Follow the 'Green Report'.
These 200+ cars will make their debut later this year and next. Therefore, there will be a fire sale on models that currently achieve 25-145 miles per charge and perhaps even the hybrids that usually average 40 miles per gallon.
So the next time you are in a traffic jam trying to cross one of those bridges after having paid a toll, you will enjoy the fact that you paid NO gas tax for that EV you drive.
Interested? Follow the 'Green Report'.
12
Nobody ever talks about where electric cars get their power. That would be from the power companies, which generate their electricity from coal, oil and natural gas power plants. So much for electric cars being green.
4
Here in Ohio, you can opt to purchase electricity from renewable sources directly from the power companies. Everyone I know who drives an EV does that.
Actually, Paul, here in NY we have an option to have our power come from green sources.
We made the choice to have our home powered via wind a few years ago. Here is more information: http://www.conedsolutions.com/GoGreen/Residential/NewYork_Green_Resident...
We made the choice to have our home powered via wind a few years ago. Here is more information: http://www.conedsolutions.com/GoGreen/Residential/NewYork_Green_Resident...
How long before this tax hike gets diverted into the ''general fund'' or goes to pay for the pols grandiose pet projects?
26
Five minutes,
Adjusting the estate tax downwards to keep the massive flight of retirees from leaving NJ is going to be a tremendous boon to the state. These retirees are a great source of spending and state and local taxes and the current threshold of only $675K is insanely low. Conversely now, if I read it correctly it is being eliminated entirely in 2018 - this could result in NJ ATTRACTING retirees, in particular from New York, who want to stay in the region but don't want to spend tens of thousands of dollars creating trusts and paying lawyers to protect their children's inheritance or their business assets from being broken up and sold.
Whatever you think of the "morality" of the estate tax - whether it's unfair to tax people who have already paid taxes on this money, or whether it's a fair form of redistribution - it's really ineffective. It doesn't raise much money because the people who would pay large taxes avoid it by moving or creating trusts to get around it. It's just not going to raise much money. So getting rid of it is a win-win. It wasn't going to pay for transportation infrastructure - ever - and the new fix will help the state in the coming years.
Whatever you think of the "morality" of the estate tax - whether it's unfair to tax people who have already paid taxes on this money, or whether it's a fair form of redistribution - it's really ineffective. It doesn't raise much money because the people who would pay large taxes avoid it by moving or creating trusts to get around it. It's just not going to raise much money. So getting rid of it is a win-win. It wasn't going to pay for transportation infrastructure - ever - and the new fix will help the state in the coming years.
6
Sales taxes tax people who have already paid (income) tax "on that money" and not even libertarians mention it. The point is all of these taxes (property taxes being the exception) tax specific economic activity, not money.
"With the proposed increase, to 37.5 cents, New Jersey’s gas tax would be considerably higher than the national average of about 21 cents."
Call it GREED. Christie cannot run for re-election. He expects to have a golden parachute into a cozy corporate cushion because he knows his dreams about heading a Trump transition team are going down in flames. He doesn't care anymore about his ratings because they are already at their lowest anyway (Bridgegate blew up in his face and he's not laughing so much anymore).
All of us know that the tax needed to go up. But it did not have to go that high... unless you are Chris Christie and you care less about gouging your constituents and more about helping yourself to the trough.
Call it GREED. Christie cannot run for re-election. He expects to have a golden parachute into a cozy corporate cushion because he knows his dreams about heading a Trump transition team are going down in flames. He doesn't care anymore about his ratings because they are already at their lowest anyway (Bridgegate blew up in his face and he's not laughing so much anymore).
All of us know that the tax needed to go up. But it did not have to go that high... unless you are Chris Christie and you care less about gouging your constituents and more about helping yourself to the trough.
12
Look out for more "tunnels to nowhere" and other crony projects. Watch more items taxed (remember the Toilet Paper Tax?)
And watch for the list of taxable items to get longer to make up for the reduction in the sales tax.
And watch for the list of taxable items to get longer to make up for the reduction in the sales tax.
1
A regressive tax that makes the poor and middle class pay while the rich continue to be "smart", as Donald Trump says by not paying any tax.
12
Don't buy gas, don't pay the tax. That's smart.
1
Ride your bike! Bikes are fun!
Save money, reduce pollution, stop a car from killing, reduce the noise. A side benefit of the tax increase might be keeping more cars off the road.
Ride your bike! Bikes are fun!
Save money, reduce pollution, stop a car from killing, reduce the noise. A side benefit of the tax increase might be keeping more cars off the road.
Ride your bike! Bikes are fun!
10
Yes, it's fun to endanger pedestrians and speed through stop signs because you are too lazy to stop. Accept licensing, registration, and fines, and we'll talk.
Year BB, but good safe bike lanes are needed and up until now there has been scant money in NJ alloted for them.
People get killed on bikes too....
People get killed on bikes too....
2
This is great news for New Yorker, we don't have to stop in Jersey for gas. Let's bring those tax dollars back to where they belong
4
For every change in rules there is a dead body. Mr Christie has little political leverage now so he has pulled that lever. What courage!
6
Excellent. That is exactly what the Federal Government should do.
Gasoline prices fluctuates sometimes by 10 cents a gallon in one week. We gladly pay it when prices are $175/gal in South Texas. Prices generally hover around $2.
Now is exactly the time the Federal Government should increase the gas tax. Every year money for roads, etc, add to the deficit because the current tax collection is insufficient. Raise the price now while gas prices are low.
But the Republicans, always the Republicans, refuse because of their pledge not raising taxes.
Like Daddy Bush, sometimes you have to do what you have to do and raise taxes.
Gasoline prices fluctuates sometimes by 10 cents a gallon in one week. We gladly pay it when prices are $175/gal in South Texas. Prices generally hover around $2.
Now is exactly the time the Federal Government should increase the gas tax. Every year money for roads, etc, add to the deficit because the current tax collection is insufficient. Raise the price now while gas prices are low.
But the Republicans, always the Republicans, refuse because of their pledge not raising taxes.
Like Daddy Bush, sometimes you have to do what you have to do and raise taxes.
9
the Governor's action is a little to late. The horse was already out of the barn. it would not come back.
1
The N.J. Estate tax of 16% starts at $675,000. I do not think that is a zillionaire level. The N.J. estate tax starts at the lowest level of any state that taxes estates. And only 15 states tax estates, not even California. Finally, this tax forces average people to leave New Jersey for the South--not just the wealthy. Why force people to uproot themselves from their family and friends in their final years?
9
I didn't realize that the estate tax started at such a low level. Thanks for the info. It might have made sense to keep it but start it at a much higher level.
1
I thought "the American Way" was supposed to be that people succeed by their own efforts, not their parents'.
The state tax is a credit against the federal tax.
I am a New York resident who travels to New Jersey once weekly and always, like so many other New Yorker's, fills up my gas tank before returning home. I can't say I'm happy that my annual gas prices have increased about $170. However, I think this will be very good for New York State!
4
Not mentioned in this article is what this will do to communities like Penns Grove along the state borders, which have a number of gas stations and large travel plazas, even hotels. With gas now going to be cheaper in Delaware, I expect a boom further south.
Who among us truly believes that money will be earmarked for infrastructure? How quickly we forget that the GSP originally was supposed to be a toll road for only a few years just to pay back the construction expenses, but look how that funding is used today. If I never drive on a state road I still must pay more now to fund those roads? Why not increase tolls on those roads?! I HIGHLY doubt this new gas tax will only go into roads. It's simply easy money being presented as just another smokescreen excuse to raise the state coffers after incompetent politicians demonstrated their fiscal irresponsibility. Mark my words. For many people in this state, their car and gas are their biggest expense next to rent. Yet another example of making the lower income carry more of the weight while their employers sit back and gloat that the little guy is literally paving the way to the business owner's profit. Is Christie also planning on a significant expansion to the public transportation system so that middle and low income commuters have an affordable alternative so they can still get to work to earn their barely "living wage"? NJ just lost one of its main reason to live here. So what's next? Can't raise property tax again, so maybe air tax? Beach tax? Flood zone tax? God forbid the politicians would impose a water tax, luxury tax, or high income bracket tax. How sure are we that our legislature is actually educated to think critically?
6
I have a brochure from the time of construction saying that the tolls would be removed once the bonds were paid off. Of course, in practice, they charge everything conceivable to the toll roads, including the cost of policing (the traffic fines, though, do not go to reduce that cost) and maintenance and the new projects plus the EZPass, which while needed cost way too much.
Parkway tolls used to be reliably 35 cents. How is it they doubled in a time of low inflation?
Parkway tolls used to be reliably 35 cents. How is it they doubled in a time of low inflation?
2
" the GSP originally was supposed to be a toll road for only a few years just to pay back the construction expenses, but look how that funding is used today."
Back in the 1950s, the toll on the George Washington Bridge was $0.50 and was supposed to be eliminated once the bridge had been paid for. Then the corrupt politicians of the Port Authority decided to use motorists as a cash cow to fund their projects like the World Trade Center and Port Authority Bus Terminal. Proof indeed that politicians can not be trusted with the public's money.
Back in the 1950s, the toll on the George Washington Bridge was $0.50 and was supposed to be eliminated once the bridge had been paid for. Then the corrupt politicians of the Port Authority decided to use motorists as a cash cow to fund their projects like the World Trade Center and Port Authority Bus Terminal. Proof indeed that politicians can not be trusted with the public's money.
2
In NY we pay one of the highest gas tax in the country and most of that money goes into the general revenue. The increase gas tax is just another way for the politicians to increase your taxes!
12
A quintessential Republican tax increase. The wealthy will have no problem paying 23 cents – or, for that matter, twice the number. The middle class and the poor will feel the bite, and it will hurt. Coupled that with the phaseout of the estate tax. What a wonderful thing for the poor! Think of the millions they'll save! Add lowering the sales tax by half a penny and life will just get better for the lower 99%. We'll able to afford that skiing trip to Aspen. And a slope-side condo to stow our gear.
Maybe there's an alternate plan. How much could be raised for transportation infrastructure if Chris and his friends paid their fair share of income tax?
This is Christie at his Trumpish best: give a handout to the 1 percent. Stick it to the rest of us.
Maybe there's an alternate plan. How much could be raised for transportation infrastructure if Chris and his friends paid their fair share of income tax?
This is Christie at his Trumpish best: give a handout to the 1 percent. Stick it to the rest of us.
155
don't forget the tax cut for the !% -
Still wondering when the liberals will define "fair share" and "middle class"?
Goatta love taxes that disadvantage the poor.
9
It is clear that after the awful rail accident on Thursday, the underfunding of NJT including holding back payments out of the TFF and a history of diverting funds under the Christie administration would become issues in the investigation. Budgets and safety should not be in the same sentence. In many areas (e.g. NJ Rt. 20) where construction stopped driving conditions are tenuous at best, showing safety risks. If Christie and the legislature acted years ago (the depletion of the fund was well known) the amount of the tax would have been lower. Now we pay the price (again) for the incompetence and petty politics of those we elect to the legislature and governors office. When will we learn?
9
The Estate Tax is onerous. The estate tax taxes money that was already taxed when it was earned.
1
No it doesn't and even if it did so what? Every dollar I earn is taxed multiple times and so are your dollars most likely.
8
Low gasoline tax was the only good part of NJ
Now that's gone. Folks, nothing is going to improve. Most money will go to pay for administration
Now that's gone. Folks, nothing is going to improve. Most money will go to pay for administration
4
So now we won't bother filling up in New Jersey as we pass through.
My guess is that prices will rise by less than the 23¢ increase because some of the increase will be absorbed by the gasoline sellers.
My guess is that prices will rise by less than the 23¢ increase because some of the increase will be absorbed by the gasoline sellers.
3
Why would they not pass along the full increase, when they can just blame it on the politicians? I would not be surprised if prices rose by $.25-$.30 just because the gas stations can point fingers elsewhere.
They won't be able to drop it below what Delaware stations charge. This will kill Salem County.
In exchange for Mr. Christie’s acceptance of the higher gas tax, the Democrats agreed to lower the state’s sales tax by less than half a penny and to phase out the estate tax by 2018.
Take that peons! Meanwhile kiss! kiss! to you Mr and Mrs One Percent.
Take that peons! Meanwhile kiss! kiss! to you Mr and Mrs One Percent.
8
Exactly...the estate tax should not be onerous but by no means phased out...
2
He's helped the rich with tax cuts and now that he no longer has a political future, he's agreed to a tax increase that will hurt the poor the most. I am not against this increase but his tax relief for the rich should be repealed as well. He's such a corrupt man that he should resign immediately for dereliction of duty during his failed campaign. Perhaps there's still time to impeach him for his Bridgegate activities before he leave office thereby putting a final cap on his political career.
12
You do understand that governors don't have the power to act unilaterally don't you?
Everyone caved. Eliminating the estate tax is just another gift to the wealthy. Shame on Christie for being a holdout while citizens die on his neglected infrastructure. Worst governor ever.
23
What's the point of raising more money for maintaining bridges if you are just going to close them off for personal political point scoring?
20
Exxon vs. Christie in 2015 - $225 million vs. $9 Billion.
15
Perhaps the state of New Jersey should get in step with the rest of the world and allow self-service pumps. There would be a savings of several cents per gallon.
6
Nope. Self-service prices would be the same as the current prices. Full-service prices will be higher (i.e. a surcharge).
That's exactly right. The price at the self serve would be what is now and the full serve would be 25 cents more. I am so tired of people thinking self serve would reduce prices. Not only would it not, but then we here would have to get out of the car in freezing weather, rain and whatever else to pump gas, and then walk to a cashier and wait in line to pay. Even with the raise we will still have some of the lowest prices in the nation. Full serve is one reason I have always liked my state.
Orange, NJ
Orange, NJ
Christie, showing characteristic Republican unwillingness to effectively run government, deprived the state of much needed revenue, stole money from the tunnel to pay for his budget gaps, used the GWB as part of his patronage/intimidation system, and has effectively led to the death of a person in Hoboken. I cannot wait for that lout to leave office.
21
A lot of people complaining about the removal of the estate tax. If you live in NJ you know that pretty much everyone who would get hit with the estate tax has retired to states without the estate tax long before their passing.
6
It is important to have fiscally "conservative" (I would say prudent instead of conservative) people in office, but the Republicans are not fiscally conservative. The extreme parsimony of the Republican party and their lack of pragmatism has our led infrastructure to second world levels. Sometimes it's more expensive *not* to raise taxes than it is to raise them when you have your public institutions and infrastructure decaying so far that you're sliding towards the precipice. Since we have not been maintaining these things we are now experiencing deaths and accidents that would have easily been preventable. It is now more expensive to replace all of this stuff than had we been properly maintaining these things all along. The same goes for other public programs the Republicans have gutted. Yes, it's expensive to provide quality education and healthcare to people, but the cost of not doing these things is even higher when you have a debilitated population who cannot reach their full potential.
13
I'm sorry, that's ideology, not economics.
So NJ shouldn't have raised taxes to pay for its infrastructure?
The shift to hybrid and electric vehicles increasingly makes fuel taxes an unsustainable way of generating revenue to support transportation infrastructure costs. It also shifts the burden to those who cannot afford those more expensive vehicles.
Fuel taxes need to be replaced with use fees.
Fuel taxes need to be replaced with use fees.
8
A New Jersey tradition comes to an end? We always try to by gas in New Jersey when traveling back and forth between here and New York because it is so much cheaper there. Ultimately, however, the people of the state suffer. Roads, aside from a few other things, are what I mainly know about the state and I hate the way they are arranged and disarranged. It's a mess. If there is any logic to how the roads and rules are laid out, it defies my ability to understand it.
Do you think the "Jersey barriers" and the requirement in most areas to make a right turn around a short loop to go left is about safety? Think again. It is also about avoiding the expense of expanding the roadway to create left turn lanes and paying for new traffic lights with left turn timing.
The area around Newark Airport is one of the most confusing sets of messed up roads I have seen anywhere in the world. This can't be fixed because there are too many spaghetti strands of interconnecting and not connecting roads as to make reinvention a multi-billion dollar, all but impossible project.
When you neglect infrastructure you neglect the basic health of a community or state. As you fall behind, catching up becomes more and more difficult and nearly impossible. There are states, like Texas, where the road is king and everything else comes last. Not good. It is all about balance. New Jersey has been out of balance in this regard for a very long time. I try to avoid the state whenever possible because of this.
5
The right turn requirement prevents traffic wanting to turn left from impeding the main roadway, which it would, given Jersey traffic, if you established a left turn lane.
What disturbs me the most, is that Governor Christie already cost NJ at least a trillion dollars by canceling freight train tunnel projects between NY and NJ,, and now it is the drivers who must suffer and pick up the tab, with this most regressive type of tax on the middle class.
38
Don't forget the nice $25 million tax deal Christie arranged for Donald Dumpster!
13
The train tunnel, while necessary, was a typical pork project. It would have cost taxpayers a lot more when, as is inevitable with these gov't funded projects, cost overruns would trigger tax increases to cover the project, we the people would be on the hook for that unknown cost.
NJ, like the rest of America, definitely needs infrastructure improvements, but it should be part of a national plan similar to the interstate highway development under Eisenhower.
We can argue funding, but the need is obvious and a 23c gas tax increase while not perfect, is probably the only way we can begin to move the ball forward. Maybe now we can begin to get NJ jobs that pay a living wage. If not, let the political buffoons have the crumbling roads.
NJ, like the rest of America, definitely needs infrastructure improvements, but it should be part of a national plan similar to the interstate highway development under Eisenhower.
We can argue funding, but the need is obvious and a 23c gas tax increase while not perfect, is probably the only way we can begin to move the ball forward. Maybe now we can begin to get NJ jobs that pay a living wage. If not, let the political buffoons have the crumbling roads.
2
You're assuming the tunnel project would be the first government project in history to be completed on time,under budget and deliver exactly what the pols promise.A trillion unicorns is more likely.
It takes a death and many injuries to get a Republican to agree to do something about infrastructure. I wonder what disaster would prompt Christie to reopen the Hudson tunnel project.
40
It would take taxpayers demanding the Hudson tunnel and accepting the liability of tax increases for the project cost overruns. Are you in? Call your representatives and get out your checkbook.
3
23 cents per gallon in exchange for a phase out of an estate tax??? Really??
63
If NJ does the sane thing and votes for a Democratic Governor in 4 years the Estate Tax will come back. In the meantime, there will be $ to repair the crumbling infrastructure. It appears to be the best the Democrats could do stuck with pay-to-play Christie as Governor-- and he wouldn't even agree to the gas tax increase until the deadly tragedy in Hoboken forced his hand.
35
For those not keeping up or paying attention, it called Trickle-down Economics. Disgraceful. Happy to report that he never got this vote.
2
Christie the Incompetent..Loud and confidently said lies is not governance
13
At least wait until the NJ legislature VOTES before you give this pig wings. If they vote yes--it will be the worst day in NJ political history: tax cuts for NJ's most privileged on the backs of the working class (gas tax hike). Despicable.
33
It's a done deal. The Governor, Senate president and assembly speaker don't do a joint public appearance like this if they don't have the votes.
3
"it will be the worst day in NJ political history"
Worse than November 20, 1776, when the British captured Fort Lee?
Worse than November 20, 1776, when the British captured Fort Lee?
2
Recentism. What about Hurricane Sandy, the Red Bank school killings, Brendan Byrne's establishment of an income tax in 1975, the Hindenburg disaster ...
Too little, too late. Won't keep Christie out of jail.
9
He has good lawyers and Wildstein is just as corrupt and vindictive as Christie.
Christie is praying for a Trump victory so he can become A.G.
The general election will be over before Christie faces any legal problems from Bridgegate...
Christie is praying for a Trump victory so he can become A.G.
The general election will be over before Christie faces any legal problems from Bridgegate...
1
Of course we don't know if the revenue will actually go for infrastructure. Christie is a never ending disaster. Cuomo is just a run of the mill sleaze. What a pair!
7
The immediacy of the agreement, of course, comes on the heels of one death and many injuries in Hoboken. Is the governor to be held accountable for the delay in agreeing to this compromise that would benefit transportation safety in New Jersey? Is that death and are those injuries his fault? Make you think for sure!
4
Great, more monies to fund boondoggle projects and to parcel out to their favorite campaign contributors. Where is the lock box that specifies that the collected funds will to be used only for essential roadwork, bridges and tunnels?
5
Corrupt to the Core Chris Christie has literally run NJ into the ground, using the Port Authority as his big personal piggy bank, putting his foot down on a cross-Hudson transit tunnel that would have eased road traffic, burdening middle- and lower-class residents with higher tolls while diverting funds for his ambitious presidential tailpipe dreams, wasting other monies through poor or no investments to infrastructure, railroads and public transportation and beyond, all while making a negligible cut to NJ's sales tax....
He would not have made ANY move to fund much-needed transportation projects had it not been for the Hoboken train tragedy that has put him under even more scrutiny than the Bridgegate debacle. Can't wait for this rude, crude, risible excuse for a governor to hit the road permanently.
He would not have made ANY move to fund much-needed transportation projects had it not been for the Hoboken train tragedy that has put him under even more scrutiny than the Bridgegate debacle. Can't wait for this rude, crude, risible excuse for a governor to hit the road permanently.
41
This is a regressive tax deal.
16
'Bout time! Christie has left billions on the table for too many years. Now he just needs to make sure the $'s put to good use (and not paying any upcoming legal fees).
5
NJ Gas Tax Being jacked by Trenton who prop up the American Dream Development w 4.1 billion. whose ur daddy now ? does NJ really need a government subsidized indoor ski slope in the meadowlands ?
12
It took a death to wake him up, but Christie's fiscal irresponsibility far outweighs the effects of the gas tax. New Jersey is a wealthy state that's broke. How does that happen? Elect a Republican with fantasies of grandeur. While he'll go on to a long career as a talking head and lobbyist, the state may never recover from his fiscal ineptitude.
39
If I understand the context correctly it takes a major accident injuring or killing people for the legislator and especially Christie to get essential legislation done.
And then the politcal leaders stand in front of cameras with one of them saying Sorry but we have strong personalities .....
That is rich and shows dysfunction on a state level.
On a national level it gets even better when the leader of the congress feeling remorse about a bill for which they lobbied and get an override for the president's veto blame the president that he should have explained the implications better and worked with congress. My question is has the GOP gone entirely nuts?
And then the politcal leaders stand in front of cameras with one of them saying Sorry but we have strong personalities .....
That is rich and shows dysfunction on a state level.
On a national level it gets even better when the leader of the congress feeling remorse about a bill for which they lobbied and get an override for the president's veto blame the president that he should have explained the implications better and worked with congress. My question is has the GOP gone entirely nuts?
30
Well, look no further than who their candidate for President is.
9
The answer is evident in their nominee for president.
8
I'm assuming that if a Christie-like governor takes office next year, the money from the transportation fund (like money from the lottery and other funds) will be diverted to the general fund to cover other urgent services. Education spending has been declining, for example, and other critical services. We will get what we pay for.
4
If they were serious it would be an extra $2.30 per gallon not 23 cents - and gas would still cost less than in most other developed countries.
14
Estate taxes are the most painless taxes of all: they only affect the affluent, and they only affect them when they are dead. So why is anyone against them? I know of one gazillionaire who maintained that he believed in personal responsibility: he gave his children the best start on life he could. From then on, it was up to them. He did not intend to leave them anything. He made his own way in the world, and so should they.
The problem is that parents too often bribe and manipulate their children with the prospect of them getting an inheritance, and the children end up thinking themselves entitled to the property and/or money that someone else earned accumulated.
I'm not talking about getting granddad's desk, or grandma's wedding ring. The estate tax has never been about things like that. It has always been about the accumulation of capital in one lineage through generations. Money is power; inherited money is inherited power. As in monarchies and aristocracies of old.
Estate taxes support the nation while decreasing artificial inequality. They are a blow against the privilege of the few, as only the few are affected by them.
My parents have money. Good for them. They started with very little, and were skillful and lucky enough to be able to live well and provide for themselves a very comfortable retirement. I am not as well off. But why should I be entitled to any of their money when they're gone?
The problem is that parents too often bribe and manipulate their children with the prospect of them getting an inheritance, and the children end up thinking themselves entitled to the property and/or money that someone else earned accumulated.
I'm not talking about getting granddad's desk, or grandma's wedding ring. The estate tax has never been about things like that. It has always been about the accumulation of capital in one lineage through generations. Money is power; inherited money is inherited power. As in monarchies and aristocracies of old.
Estate taxes support the nation while decreasing artificial inequality. They are a blow against the privilege of the few, as only the few are affected by them.
My parents have money. Good for them. They started with very little, and were skillful and lucky enough to be able to live well and provide for themselves a very comfortable retirement. I am not as well off. But why should I be entitled to any of their money when they're gone?
236
Unfortunately in NJ, the estate tax limits were much lower than almost any state and federal levels, so they did not impact only the affluent, but most estates. Eliminating the tax is long overdue, as many look to leave NJ in their later years. Inheritance tax limits can still be an issue that the Assembly has not dealt with, again an outlier compared to other States and the federal tax rules.
I agree with you about the estate tax being one of the less painful ways to raise tax revenue. I have two objections, however. The first is that much of the income has already been taxed. Say I build a business and sell it for $10 million. If I invested $2 million of my money along the way, I pay tax on $8 million. When I die, 'though, that $10 million (minus unified credit, etc.) is subject to estate tax. If I invested that $10 million in stocks and bonds, any income I earned on it would be subject to income tax. If I die having invested the $10 million in stocks and bonds that have increased in value by $1.5 million, my investments would be liquidated and my posthumous tax return would have me paying tax on that gain.
My big issue, 'though, is that I think our government money is very poorly spent. It's not "waste, fraud, abuse" to which I'm objecting -- it's our warped priorities. Yes, every train in America will be equipped with costly "automatic train control" technology (and the people to run it). Yes, every policeman will wear a body camera and we'll have extensive systems to archive it. But poor people will still be walking down the street with abscessed teeth, their kids with uncorrected poor vision, elder care will still be our last priority, etc. I don't like how the government chooses to spend my money, that's why I'd rather leave it all to a charity who will.
My big issue, 'though, is that I think our government money is very poorly spent. It's not "waste, fraud, abuse" to which I'm objecting -- it's our warped priorities. Yes, every train in America will be equipped with costly "automatic train control" technology (and the people to run it). Yes, every policeman will wear a body camera and we'll have extensive systems to archive it. But poor people will still be walking down the street with abscessed teeth, their kids with uncorrected poor vision, elder care will still be our last priority, etc. I don't like how the government chooses to spend my money, that's why I'd rather leave it all to a charity who will.
2
The NJ estate tax had a very low threshold (500,000) to apply, impacting middle class families as well as upper class ones. The threshold should have been raised instead of removing the tax completely. There's no guarantee that the tax won't return in the future though.
4
Chris Christie is the quintessential slimeball politician (see, e.g., BridgeGate). But . . . raising the NJ gas tax is the right thing to do. And if every State had the kind of high tax on gasoline that Europe does, we'd be driving on decent roads and over safe bridges -- and there would be more jobs.
180
No it's NOT! Raise the taxes that need to be raised; especially those for the uber wealthy. There's your infrastructure money.
3
"And if every State had the kind of high tax on gasoline that Europe does, we'd be driving on decent roads and over safe bridges -- and there would be more jobs."
And fewer people would be driving these gas-guzzling, carbon-spewing SUV monstrosities.
And fewer people would be driving these gas-guzzling, carbon-spewing SUV monstrosities.
2
Read the rest of it, obviously you haven't.
I had to read down a few paragraphs to see where the Democrats sold out their constituents. And sure enough, there it is, a reduced sales tax and a phasing out of the New Jersey Estate Tax.
17
Raise the gas tax in NJ by about a buck and a half or 2 dollars, keep it rising every year and hope every other state will follow and do the right thing. We need to make driving EXPENSIVE to curb excess driving, and use the money to improve our roads and other infrastructure.
5
What about the working poor? THis hits them the hardest - and they don't do much excess driving. It'll just cost more to get from one minimun wage job to other.
2
I'm sorry that you share my initials, because we certainly don't share the sentiment.
This isn't Europe. This is a much larger country that requires vehicles for transportation. For any foreseeable future, there are no alternatives and pragmatism is what we need.
Now if you said we are raising the gas tax to put in high speed electric charging stations throughout the state so we can drive electric vehicles without ever getting stuck, we might have something to talk about. There's plenty -plenty- of money in the taxes already collected to pay for infrastructure. So if the tax is to pay for something we already paid for, I'm against it. If it's for something creative that might actually take us into the next century, bring it on.
This isn't Europe. This is a much larger country that requires vehicles for transportation. For any foreseeable future, there are no alternatives and pragmatism is what we need.
Now if you said we are raising the gas tax to put in high speed electric charging stations throughout the state so we can drive electric vehicles without ever getting stuck, we might have something to talk about. There's plenty -plenty- of money in the taxes already collected to pay for infrastructure. So if the tax is to pay for something we already paid for, I'm against it. If it's for something creative that might actually take us into the next century, bring it on.
I'm old enuff to remember, from my New Jersey youth, when the Garden State Parkway tolls were supposed to end after the construction costs were paid off, about 1960-something. No, really. Was not a dream.
4
I remember that. And the lottery was supposed to go for education... Hahahah!
4
NJ needs the boost this money will provide.
2
Chris Christie is a crook. That's all.
9
Most of the Comments on this article articulate what a horrible governor Christie is for the masses and how generous he is to the very few super-rich. So how did Christie get elected?
4
I don't know. I voted for Barbara Buono. My conscience is clear.
14
The people of NJ's stupidity imposed this bully to the Country. How many? 70-80% of them?
I bet now nobody will admit it. "Me? I didn't vote for him."
Sure.
I bet now nobody will admit it. "Me? I didn't vote for him."
Sure.
1
Bill--the first time he was elected, people were voting not so much for him, but against his predecessor Corzine and those so-called "tax and spend" Democrats. The second time--well, the Dems left their candidate Buono twist in the wind and didn't support her.
2
Was this increase in the gasoline tax the outcome of Christie's famous transportation study?
8
A horrible accident had to happen for Christie to finally raise the fuel tax. A woman died because of his stubborn attitude
8
When rich men like Trump fail to pay their fair share of taxes those revenues must be made up elsewhere. Trump thinks he's smart not to pay taxes. See if you can get away with that at the pump.
17
Badly worn roads and damaged bridges will be fixed, and gas will still be around $2.00 a gallon.
Stop whining, or elect better people with more creative solutions than worshiping the 1%.
Stop whining, or elect better people with more creative solutions than worshiping the 1%.
6
Isn't this just the perfect example of inaction by government and perpetuating elected officials selfish self interests. Instead of spreading the costs of transportation fairly over a large group of users, over a long period of time, we get this knee jerk reaction to a crisis that has been building for years. Now the greater costs fall in a lump onto the next generation of users.
Roads need to be maintained. We all understand that things will cost more in the future. A penny increase in the gas tax over the last 25 years is a no brainer, but not apparently to those that draw lines in the sand over taxes with their political partners.
Roads need to be maintained. We all understand that things will cost more in the future. A penny increase in the gas tax over the last 25 years is a no brainer, but not apparently to those that draw lines in the sand over taxes with their political partners.
6
Just a few days too late, eh Christie?
15
The cruel joke on New Jersey commuters is that Gov. Christie killed the desperately needed and long-planned Hudson river transit tunnel between New Jersey and New York in 2010 so that he could divert $3 billion of highway toll increases and Port Authority funds to bail out Jersey's finances, and he did so precisely to keep an election pledge not to raise the gas tax. The "ARC tunnel" that Christie killed would have been completed by 2018. Instead, commuters are stuck with a century-old tunnel badly damaged by Hurricane Sandy that will soon have to be closed for repairs, a major dispute about how to raise the $14 billion a new tunnel will require, and a threatened collapse of rail service. And now they are getting the gas-tax increase anyway. The price of putting Christie in the governor's mansion -- in part because so many people were so attracted by his bullying attitude -- is turning out to be very high. This is also an object lesson in the folly of indulging Republican antitax attitudes, to which Christie was playing with his candidacy for President in mind.
132
And why is he getting a pass on his horrendous record on Hurricane Sandy recovery.
NJ lost recovery funds to NY because Christie's administration did not get paperwok in on time.
Why are there still people living in tailers along the Jersey shore 3 years after the storm ??
And do not forget the million dollar complete scam report NJ residents had to pay for in his defense of his part of the Bridge Gate fiasco. Now we know for sure he knew. though hardly anyone believed other.
He is just another incompetant con-man with no personal integrity as he follows around Trump like a puppy dog hoping to save his political life/future.
NJ needs to make a law that prohibits it's sitting governor to work on the stump of a Presidential campaign keeping him out of the state and not giving 100% of his concentration and time to his state and its residents. What a joke.
NJ lost recovery funds to NY because Christie's administration did not get paperwok in on time.
Why are there still people living in tailers along the Jersey shore 3 years after the storm ??
And do not forget the million dollar complete scam report NJ residents had to pay for in his defense of his part of the Bridge Gate fiasco. Now we know for sure he knew. though hardly anyone believed other.
He is just another incompetant con-man with no personal integrity as he follows around Trump like a puppy dog hoping to save his political life/future.
NJ needs to make a law that prohibits it's sitting governor to work on the stump of a Presidential campaign keeping him out of the state and not giving 100% of his concentration and time to his state and its residents. What a joke.
5
I think this is unfair to those of us who pass through the state between DC and MA. Where do we get a break. We pay a pretty high toll on that turnpike plus bridges. Another rip-off by the rich
6
This is laughable. A 23 cent increase is peanuts and will generate no where near enough revenue to do the job.
I live in Austria. Gasoline is 7 dollars a gallon and nearly 60% of that is tax.
Moreover in order to drive the national highway system you must buy a sticker for your windshield which costs about 100 dollars per year.
I can tell you the roads, bridges, tunnels as well as the rail, bus and tram systems here are second to none.
The projects never end as there is always adequate funding and the jobs these projects create are good ones which help keep the economy stable-especially during down-turns.
We could do this in the US as well if we had a population that demanded it and leaders with the courage and vision to implement it.
I live in Austria. Gasoline is 7 dollars a gallon and nearly 60% of that is tax.
Moreover in order to drive the national highway system you must buy a sticker for your windshield which costs about 100 dollars per year.
I can tell you the roads, bridges, tunnels as well as the rail, bus and tram systems here are second to none.
The projects never end as there is always adequate funding and the jobs these projects create are good ones which help keep the economy stable-especially during down-turns.
We could do this in the US as well if we had a population that demanded it and leaders with the courage and vision to implement it.
67
Train crash, raise taxes? Wow dems never let a crises go to waste to raise taxes.
1
New Jersey's rails, roads, and bridges are necessary for its citizens. Perhaps Mr. Christie expected them to fix themselves. Donald Trump must expect the same thing because apparently he doesn't pay federal taxes that would improve infrastructure.
12
The article leaves out the pertinent math. Is a .375% reduction in the sales tax over 2 years, coupled with the elimination of the state's estate tax, going to be an equal offset to the increase in the gas tax? The numbers are out there, public records I believe, they're not state secrets. Actuaries could have provided us the answer easily, had the NYT bothered to ask. I suspect this will be a net loss for NJ, and by moving money from one pocket to another, further provide Christie with the means to exercise his discretion on more state spending. Those road building and paving projects are lucrative, and there are some folks in that business with less than stellar reputations. I can only imagine where they'll be sending their political donations in the near future. At least at the Port Authority he had to reach some level of detente with Cuomo, but here he's got the ball, playing field and goal posts in his own pockets and nobody else's. What appears as a feel good headline with a short and shallow fluff piece is in fact a future boondoggle being born. I predict much of the newly raised money will never see a road or rail project. Wait and see.
4
Actually Eric, I suspect the new and old taxes mentioned here will change post-Christie and likely not for the better. There is no reason to believe the gas tax wont go up every year from this point forward.
1
LOL. This is truly laugh out loud funny.
You can be Christ and what you'd say as a politician would be a stone lie.
Christie PRE-PRESIDENT: NO tax increases. NONE! OUTRAGE!
Christie POST-PRESIDENT RUN:
Drop the reciprocal tax deal with PA so South Jersey residents now pay 2 state taxes: Result 4% Income Increase.
Raise the Gas tax .23 cents.
Look, here's better arrangement: I'm sending my paycheck directly to the State and you take what you'd like and send the rest if there's any left. Let's not kid each other shall we? I get you are my master.
See, what bothers me more than the endless hand in my pocket is the fact the politicians lie reflexively about it.
Chris Christie is simply a failure and a fraud. Par for the NJ course.
You can be Christ and what you'd say as a politician would be a stone lie.
Christie PRE-PRESIDENT: NO tax increases. NONE! OUTRAGE!
Christie POST-PRESIDENT RUN:
Drop the reciprocal tax deal with PA so South Jersey residents now pay 2 state taxes: Result 4% Income Increase.
Raise the Gas tax .23 cents.
Look, here's better arrangement: I'm sending my paycheck directly to the State and you take what you'd like and send the rest if there's any left. Let's not kid each other shall we? I get you are my master.
See, what bothers me more than the endless hand in my pocket is the fact the politicians lie reflexively about it.
Chris Christie is simply a failure and a fraud. Par for the NJ course.
4
What about the inheritance tax? Is that also to be phased out?
sorry but Donald trump is the perfect example as to why we need to have the estate tax
8
Well, looking on the bright side, it may keep people from Pennsylvania and New York from clogging our roadways when they cross over to buy cheap gas.
2
Cristy is such a loser. Why raise the funds now that he may go to jail? A distraction? If a democrat raised the gas tax 3 cents, he would be all over them. Such a hypocrite. And did I say loser? Note: gas taxes are "regressive taxes" -that is, they hurt the poor more than the rich since the rich are better able to pay the difference. In that sense, it's a very Republican tax. Again, did I say he was a loser bully, and a criminal who should be in jail right now for endangering the welfare of children and those seeking medical care? Jail.
10
And he bargained the gas tax in exchange for eliminating the estate tax...
2
why not just close a few lanes at the GW tolls. The taxes on the additional gasoline burned and then purchased by all the backed-up cars should easily fund the infrastructure improvements and modernizations. Geez, Chris, turn this lemon into lemonade, whydontcha?
3
And they will also raise your property tax. NJ loves corrupt goverment
4
Someone needs new pylons for the GWB?
2
Now taise income taxes to Eisenhower levels: 90%
3
raise not taise.
Electric cars people! No gasoline. No oil changes. Amazing acceleration. Made in America. HOV lane access. Take the hint.
6
Which currently pay no fuel tax, and thus are using the roads for free (just a slight exaggeration).
It might be noble to drive electric, but as the percentage of these vehicles increases, we will have to come up with another road user tax mechanism.
It might be noble to drive electric, but as the percentage of these vehicles increases, we will have to come up with another road user tax mechanism.
Yes, that is true. I drive one and realize that I am not paying for the roads I drive on. I view it as an incentive that will need to be phased out when they are more common. However, in the short term, I really encourage people to switch to electric.
Last I looked, an electric car cost some bucks. ($32,000 for a Tesla, right?) I'm doing good to keep my '89 Honda on the road--forget springing for an e-car.
NJ needs a Democrat to win the next governors race - so they can renege on the tax cuts for the 1%.
11
Considering the very low prices of gasoline, there has been a lost opportunity to increase the gasoline taxes nationally, and put the money into repairing roads and bridges, not to mention investments that move us away from the fossil-fuel economy and global climate change. Thank the Republican Congress for years of gridlock and head-in-the-sand stupidity.
9
I really don 't understand why it has to be raised 23 cents. It just seems like too much. I think they should raise it, but how about 15 cents and leave the estate tax and the sales tax alone. They probably want to use money for pensions and everything else. As usual it makes no sense.
Orange, NJ
Orange, NJ
5
There is no excuse in 2016 for a rail system not to have protective systems in place to prevent a train from rolling at speed onto a dead-end track in a terminal station just yards from a river. The money to install them should have been spent long ago and suitable adjustments to transportation-earmarked tax revenue sources made incrementally - say over the last seven years of Christie's administration - to provide the dollars.
That aside, imagine the mess that will result from failure of one or both of the two 108-year-old tunnels carrying heavy passenger rail under the Hudson? Who'll be hurt most? New Jersey residents. Of course had Christie not delayed the Gateway project by stonewalling it for years new tunnels would be well on their way to completion by now and there'd be a little less reason for concern. Loss of rail access to NYC other than by teh PATH subway isn't going to do much for property tax values in commuter towns either so revenue there will drop. Nothing like thinking ahead, eh?
That aside, imagine the mess that will result from failure of one or both of the two 108-year-old tunnels carrying heavy passenger rail under the Hudson? Who'll be hurt most? New Jersey residents. Of course had Christie not delayed the Gateway project by stonewalling it for years new tunnels would be well on their way to completion by now and there'd be a little less reason for concern. Loss of rail access to NYC other than by teh PATH subway isn't going to do much for property tax values in commuter towns either so revenue there will drop. Nothing like thinking ahead, eh?
16
You want money for transit improvements? Take it from the greedy extortionate public transit unions. The New Jersey Transit website reports Fiscal Year 2016 ticket revenue of $1.005 billion, but labor and fringe benefit costs of $1.256 billion. Of the 11,401 employees, 9.531 are unionized. Thank heavens taxes are mandatory, because no business that had to compete in the free market for revenue could survive with this kind of cost structure.
2
Horrible. This is a transfer of wealth from lower and middle classes to the top.
147
True that gas taxes are a bit regressive but a very appropriate method of funding transportation infrastructure like roads and bridges and addressing the externalities of pollution and climate change.
If you really don't want to pay gas taxes consider public transportation or electric cars.
If you really don't want to pay gas taxes consider public transportation or electric cars.
Ridiculous; if you don't like paying more to fix Transportation issues; buy a cheaper car like a Corolla instead of an SUV or light Truck. I want safe roads and decent public transit.
Remember we still have an Inheritance Tax, as well as the phased out Estate Tax. That is the price we pay for electing Christie by overwhelming margins.
The reduction in the Sales Tax will meaning something to poorer people; meaningless to me or any upper income people.
Remember we still have an Inheritance Tax, as well as the phased out Estate Tax. That is the price we pay for electing Christie by overwhelming margins.
The reduction in the Sales Tax will meaning something to poorer people; meaningless to me or any upper income people.
6
Folks in construction are going to get more work to do. Is that bad?
the 1% win again - what a shock.
103
Nope it's the .01 of 1% that win.
1
No- the 0.1% win- those that don't pay their fair share of taxes to support American infrastructure but sure know how to use those roads, etc. This is a very important decimal point. Between the top 1% and 0.1% are a lot of doctors and lawyers and well paid professionals who make as low as $250.000 which may sound like a lot if you are making $50,000 but these are real tax payers. They are salaried and pay the top income tax rates and then are further punished by what is called the "alternate minimal tax" which denies them deductions so that they end up with a "maximum" tax bill that taxes them on the taxes they have paid to the state, etc etc etc. Yet even Hillary wants to increase taxes on them. Trump claims that he made $650,000,000 last year, a disputed number but let's go with it. If he was taxed like the average physician, he'd have a tax bill of about $292,500,000. Instead he paid nothing. If the top 0.1% own about 22% of the nation's wealth- you do the arithmetic on that and what it means to our tax revenues and crumbling infrastructures.
1
Let's hope all the new tax revenue goes to transportation projects.
35
Are you kidding, the useless, parasitic, bureaucratic vermin that infest all levels of government will take their 10 to 20% off the top and the rest will be diverted to inner city democratic political machines so they can buy the votes of the residents.
5
The cheapest gas in the country New Jersey has lots of repairing to do on their roadways, but it seems the repair most needed is within the demographic itself who in the past fifty or so years has had a very hard time distinguishing what is right and what is ultimately wrong for their own well being, cutting off their nose to spite their face all in the name of growth and competition, New Jersey is sinking into a pile of its own waste and mismanagement.
5
Lovely. So us ordinary people will pay more in gas while rich people get to leave their estates tax free.
221
In fairness, that estate money has already been taxed when it was first earned. The recipient will also have to pay taxes on 401k's.
1
"In fairness, that estate money has already been taxed when it was first earned."
Capital gains passed through an estate have NOT been taxed. Sell an asset with $100,000 in capital gains, and you will pay $15,000 in taxes. Leave it to your heir who immediately sells it, and they pay nothing.
Capital gains passed through an estate have NOT been taxed. Sell an asset with $100,000 in capital gains, and you will pay $15,000 in taxes. Leave it to your heir who immediately sells it, and they pay nothing.
scott, you comment is a bit of a distortion. Different assets are taxed differently and the topic is a fairly complex one.
Us out-of-staters have usually waited to fill up with the low priced NJ gas, so there will be some drop in gas sales.
22
Christie eliminated the estate tax that benefits the few and the rich and has made up the difference by raising the tax on gasoline that hurts the average person and the not so rich.
Sound fair? I don't think so.
Sound fair? I don't think so.
233
It's an outrage.
So where are the protests? why are NJ residents taking this lying down?
So where are the protests? why are NJ residents taking this lying down?
4
SO, do both. Two wrongs don't make a right.
Put a Democrat in office and revisit it.
3
So first he stalled all sorts of transportation projects during the summer months when most of the work needs to be done so he could beat his chest and tell us how he was fighting to protect us from an evil tax. Now as the cold approaches and he hasn't got a snowball's chance in hell of growing his political future, he reaches an agreement that reduces the sales tax by a paltry almost insignificant amount for the average consumer which will probably be raised within the next political term AND gives a big old pat on the back to his rich friends by cutting the estate tax (most folks aren't in the .01 percent that would benefit much from this).
So basically, we got... well you know the expletive. Thanks Chris!
So basically, we got... well you know the expletive. Thanks Chris!
132
th problem raising taxes is that th money often doesnt go where its supposed to
if it did, people would not be so resentful of paying them
13
People would be resentful no matter what.
1
So Christie knows that he will either be impeached or have to resign. After vetoing the gas tax and closing all of the transportation projects, he's leaving NJ with is large tax. Not a bad thing, just a suspicious time.
9
He'll also leave a legacy of reneging on a deal to fund state pensions, following the precedent set by Christine Todd (the WTC air is safe to breathe) Whitman.
Eliminating cheap gas eliminates the most compelling rationale for visiting. My daughter went to college in Northern NJ, from 2007-2011. Gas used to be $0.45/gallon cheaper than NY. Even before the increase, that difference had slipped to about $0.25. Now Joiseyites can come to NY for cheap gas...
Eliminating cheap gas eliminates the most compelling rationale for visiting. My daughter went to college in Northern NJ, from 2007-2011. Gas used to be $0.45/gallon cheaper than NY. Even before the increase, that difference had slipped to about $0.25. Now Joiseyites can come to NY for cheap gas...
3
What a shabby, cynical deal. Phasing out the Estate Tax helps the wealthy and the Sales Tax "decrease" is not worth mentioning. Meanwhile, poor people get screwed, NJ solidifies its reputation as an awful and expensive place to live and the politicians get millions more to steal and waste.
64
Finally some clear thinking on the need to adequately fund our crumbling infrastructure. I wish we could pass something like this at the Federal level and raise the current 18 cent per gallon rate substantially. As long as we insist it only funds road and other transportation projects I would have no problem adding a dollar a gallon and drastically upgrading our bridges and highways.
Most Americans are unaware of the wonderful roads, tunnels, bridges and bike-paths the Europeans have built in the last 20 years (especially the Scandinavian countries) – we really need to step it up.
Most Americans are unaware of the wonderful roads, tunnels, bridges and bike-paths the Europeans have built in the last 20 years (especially the Scandinavian countries) – we really need to step it up.
13
As long as the democrats demand that all infrastructure repairs be restricted to union workers who kickback most of their dues tot he democrats the GOP would be foolish to approve such funding since more infrastructure funding means more union kickbacks to the democrats.
1
Yeah, this is some really "Berkeley" thinking alright. Raise, raise, raise taxes. Of course, you yourself probably pay little if any of these taxes. There is always "some other guy, behind that tree" on whom you can dump the tax burden.
Scandinavian population ALL TOGETHER is smaller than NY State, and geographically very compact. It is folly to compare tiny, all-white Scandinavian nations with the vast US and 320 million people.
Scandinavian population ALL TOGETHER is smaller than NY State, and geographically very compact. It is folly to compare tiny, all-white Scandinavian nations with the vast US and 320 million people.
2
Unfortunately, the hacks in Washington will use that money for White Elephants like high speed inter-city trains rather than for commuter trains.
2
I have mixed feelings on this. I agree that we need to fund repair and maintenance of our roads, bridges and rail system, but I do not trust our current government to spend the money fairly or wisely.
Through Bridgegate we have learned that the Christie administration is petty and vindictive. Will all of us share in these new transportation fund dollars or will the money just go to communities that support Trump?
We recently learned that New Jersey's underfunded public employee pension fund lost nearly 1 percent on its investments during the fiscal year that ended in June. This was one of the worst returns among the country’s large public pension funds. Could it be because of investments in volatile hedge funds with hefty management fees going to Christie cronies?
If we Garden Staters are paying too much money in sales tax, which must be the case since the Christie, Sweeney and Prieto have agreed to somewhat swap the gas tax increase for a sales tax decrease, why don’t they just use that sales tax giveback money for transportation needs and give us a smaller gas tax increase?
The New York Times story noted that the 23-cent-per-gallon increase over the current 10.5 cent tax would make New Jersey’s gas tax considerably higher than the national average of about 21 cents. We already have some of the highest taxes in many other categories. Do they have to make it every category?
Through Bridgegate we have learned that the Christie administration is petty and vindictive. Will all of us share in these new transportation fund dollars or will the money just go to communities that support Trump?
We recently learned that New Jersey's underfunded public employee pension fund lost nearly 1 percent on its investments during the fiscal year that ended in June. This was one of the worst returns among the country’s large public pension funds. Could it be because of investments in volatile hedge funds with hefty management fees going to Christie cronies?
If we Garden Staters are paying too much money in sales tax, which must be the case since the Christie, Sweeney and Prieto have agreed to somewhat swap the gas tax increase for a sales tax decrease, why don’t they just use that sales tax giveback money for transportation needs and give us a smaller gas tax increase?
The New York Times story noted that the 23-cent-per-gallon increase over the current 10.5 cent tax would make New Jersey’s gas tax considerably higher than the national average of about 21 cents. We already have some of the highest taxes in many other categories. Do they have to make it every category?
103
Eight years of zero interest rate monetary policy has blown out the projections of virtually all pension funds.
We need the money for safe transportation you desire; the modest sales tax reduction was made to pacify the Gov. & Hudson county politicians
Trust the NJ politicians to use the money wisely???
Of course you could have achieved the same thing by repealing the prevailing wage laws but when it comes down to benefiting all rather that benefiting some, the labor unions and their water carriers in both political parties, well you know who comes out on top.
13
What garbage that is, Michael F.
27
Of course not everyone hated unions as much as you.
6
Prevailing wages are the state mandated that every construction company pay union scale wages, which effectively mandates the union.
1
Yes, raise the gas tax and eliminate the estate tax. That's a win for the middle class who will see even more of our hard-earned pay disappear into the pockets of corrupt politicians. On the bright side, maybe some rich kid will buy another car with his inheritance?...
169
It is unfortunate that it apparently took a disaster to get Christie to move on the gas tax. But that is no different than here in Minnesota. In our case, it took a bridge falling down and killing 13 people. And even then, the governor at the time (Pawlenty) vetoed it. Fortunately, there were enough Republicans that had a conscience and joined the Dems to override the veto.
New Jersey has the second lowest gas in the nation and has not raised it since the 1980s. While 23¢ seems like a lot, given the condition of many of NJs roads, it seems reasonable and will only make up for part of what has been neglected for many years (I drive a quite a number of miles in NJ each year and they need lots of work).
New Jersey has the second lowest gas in the nation and has not raised it since the 1980s. While 23¢ seems like a lot, given the condition of many of NJs roads, it seems reasonable and will only make up for part of what has been neglected for many years (I drive a quite a number of miles in NJ each year and they need lots of work).
90
Perhaps you'd like to share in some of our other taxes on your next visit? Overall we pay some of the highest taxes in the nation. The problem isn't that we haven't collected enough tax, it's the misallocation of what we already pay.
19
NJ should be able to run on its share of the Port Authority bridge tolls without any other taxes but the Port Authority revenues are used to reward the friends of the respective Governors.
Why doesn't the NYT dig into that political sewer?
Why doesn't the NYT dig into that political sewer?
6
"New Jersey has the second lowest gas in the nation"
Not anymore.
Well it's about time! Now if only we can be sure the revenue will be used on transportation.
72
It's about time, but it comes too late.
Christie has devastated the economy in NJ while wasting away every opportunity to create jobs ( the tunnel was nixed ). On top of it all, he used the port authority budget as a personal slush fund while using it's power for vendettas.
Fiscal responsibility comes from negotiating good deals and saving money where you can ~ NOT from being backed into a corner and offloading onto the taxpayer when there is no other recourse.
Christie has devastated the economy in NJ while wasting away every opportunity to create jobs ( the tunnel was nixed ). On top of it all, he used the port authority budget as a personal slush fund while using it's power for vendettas.
Fiscal responsibility comes from negotiating good deals and saving money where you can ~ NOT from being backed into a corner and offloading onto the taxpayer when there is no other recourse.
284
This tax is going to heart, ems,fire,police,air lines,small business, do I need to go on, find the money someplace else, and oh ya this is the governor's approval rating is at 23 percent, he doesn't care his gas is free
7
TAXES should be progressive; they should fall most heavily on the wealthy and privileged.
The best way to do this is with a FAIR, PROGRESSIVE income tax.
Sales taxes of any kind, fall most heavily on those least able to pay -- the poor and working class, for whom EVERY DOLLAR they earn goes directly to pay for necessities.
The best way to do this is with a FAIR, PROGRESSIVE income tax.
Sales taxes of any kind, fall most heavily on those least able to pay -- the poor and working class, for whom EVERY DOLLAR they earn goes directly to pay for necessities.
3
Adios, cheapest gas on my trips between Virginia and New York. Next thing you know, Jersey drivers will be pumping their own gas.
The end of civilization as we know it.
The end of civilization as we know it.
38
My thoughts too. But if it improves some of the roads on the way, I won't complain too much.
What's wrong with pumping your own gas?? Just about every other state does it and it contributes to lower gas prices.
Having cheap gas for your trip thru NJ doesn't do you any good if pot holes destroy your car or a bridge falls while you go over it...
Having cheap gas for your trip thru NJ doesn't do you any good if pot holes destroy your car or a bridge falls while you go over it...
3
When the tax is raised so high that it creates a surplus that is used for a sales decrease or Estate tax elimination, it was raised too much. It should only have been raised only ten cents. Also, why is it three times more expensive per mile to construct a road than every other state. Even NY pays less to construct roads. Corruption is NJ's specialty.
67
Senior citizens, lower income families, and people on a fixed income will suffer from this increase. People living in Sussex County do not have mass transportation available to them. Owning a car is not a luxury, it is a necessity. It is a shame that our elected government representatives are again neglecting to fight for the lower income residents of this state. I guess NY and PA residents can fill up in their home state.
23
Never understood the complaints of the senior citizens and lower income people If you're retired there are MANY less expensive places to live than high cost coastal markets like NJ / the northeast. Same if you have very poor paying job. Go to place with a much lower cost of living.
As a New Jersey car commuter, I can only say: It's about time. I will GLADLY pay 23 cents more a gallon to help improve the dreadful quality of the state's roads and replace bridges that are ready to fall down.
373
Unfortunately for you, much of the money is going to be diverted to mass transit.
4
If that means less cars on the road then so be it.
28
Fares should cover the cost of mass transit and the gas tax should only go for road repairs. Motorists should not have to subsidize the automobile hating city people.
2
Has Grover Norquist written him out of the party yet?
Given that road damage goes with the 3rd or 4th power of the mass of the vehicle, the tax should be based on weight, not fuel use. Semi trucks cause 99.9% of the damage to asphalt roads. It's possible even that automobiles in any quantity cause no measurable damage at all.
Given that road damage goes with the 3rd or 4th power of the mass of the vehicle, the tax should be based on weight, not fuel use. Semi trucks cause 99.9% of the damage to asphalt roads. It's possible even that automobiles in any quantity cause no measurable damage at all.
63
djt: Very sensible, but nothing will be done (prediction).
2
The heavier the vehicle, the more gas it uses, the more tax it pays.
1
djt, a heavy vehicle sitting parked does no damage. You forgot to include the number of miles traveled in your formula.
And all vehicles do some "damage", including electric and plug-in hybrid cars. Drivers of these pay little to no fuel tax, and are getting a free ride.
And all vehicles do some "damage", including electric and plug-in hybrid cars. Drivers of these pay little to no fuel tax, and are getting a free ride.
Thanks Gov. That one eighth of one percent decrease in the sales tax will go a long way in offsetting the 23 cents per gallon increase. At $2 a gallon that's a 12 % increase in the price of gasoline.
9
I wish that people would do the math when they protest these "increases" (never mind that its been nearly 3 decades since the tax went up). Assume you drive 15,000 miles/yr and your car gets 25 mpg, you are basically paying $10/month for better roads, better bridges and hopefully less congestion. Contrast that with the money you lose (and your peace of mind) sitting in traffic or the repairs to your cars when you hit the potholes that arent fixed.
499
Newton, I get $12.50 a month with your numbers but maybe I pressed the wrong keys.
What you and other non-NJ folks do not understand:
The cost-of living in NJ is VERY high for working folks versus other parts of the USA. NJ has the highest property taxes -- no other state comes close. The retail sales taxes are high (they brought it down minimally for this gas tax to go thru -- not enough to matter). AND NJ people have to pay internet sales tax at Amazon, etc. Food and Groceries? High in NJ too. NJ state Income taxes? High.
So the low gas tax was arguably the **one thing NJ had over other states when comparing cost of living.**
When you look at the larger picture, this gas tax is really just another consumption tax that mostly falls on the working and middle classes.
What you and other non-NJ folks do not understand:
The cost-of living in NJ is VERY high for working folks versus other parts of the USA. NJ has the highest property taxes -- no other state comes close. The retail sales taxes are high (they brought it down minimally for this gas tax to go thru -- not enough to matter). AND NJ people have to pay internet sales tax at Amazon, etc. Food and Groceries? High in NJ too. NJ state Income taxes? High.
So the low gas tax was arguably the **one thing NJ had over other states when comparing cost of living.**
When you look at the larger picture, this gas tax is really just another consumption tax that mostly falls on the working and middle classes.
30
I'm sorry but tolls, fees and all manner of other percentage based taxes have grown exponentially. In a vacuum perhaps this may not seem too terrible but when viewed in the overall context of all taxes and fees we are forced to pay, this is an outrage.
11
K Henderson, part of what you say is true. But the sales tax is lower than here in New York. (So there!) And what's wrong with paying sales tax on the Internet? That should have become universal years ago; an Internet tax break is mainly a subsidy to Amazon and a few other Internet giants.
You have an expensive state; maybe there is too much corruption? Maybe Christie's diverting money to bribe elected officials to endorse him is part of the problem? I would look into that. Meanwhile, your state requires decent bus and rail service to survive. Don't knock it!
You have an expensive state; maybe there is too much corruption? Maybe Christie's diverting money to bribe elected officials to endorse him is part of the problem? I would look into that. Meanwhile, your state requires decent bus and rail service to survive. Don't knock it!
15
anyone but me wondering whether that money will really be used for infrastructure?
199
It will be (or to help service the debt raised for infrastructure). There is an evil, pernicious myth about the money--it's coupled with the illusory Koch-funded "study" that contented NJ spends 3 times per mile on road repair than the next highest state (they added in the debt service to the actual maintenance costs--that's double counting true construction expense).
Not Christie's thing. See ARC tunnel.
2
One way to better insure it is by getting rid of Christie and his corrupt, inane senior advisors like in the Bridgegate scandal.
Also have papers like the NY Times and others watch it.
Anything can be corrupted. It does not mean you should not do it.
Also have papers like the NY Times and others watch it.
Anything can be corrupted. It does not mean you should not do it.
2
Its a good compromise. Frankly I'm surprised it didn't happen sooner. I am also disappointed that the Democrats wanted so desperately to keep a grossly unfair and unjust and unnecessary estate tax. New Jersey will be better off for this agreement. The general sales taxes are also punitive and mostly hurt people in lower income brackets. I am not a fan of Mr. Christie but this is perhaps a start of further compromises and better results for the citizens of New Jersey.
5
Having an estate tax is never unfair, unjust, or unnecessary. An estate tax or equivalent is required to preserve any democracy against the tendency to oligarchy. It is indicative of the true centers of power that eliminating the estate tax, benefiting only the very rich, is the price for paying for long-overdue rail and road improvements.
Probably much of the money will be diverted anyway, unless Christie is tied to a pole and monitored day and night. What are a few dozen railway fatalities to a governor who cares nothing for 99% of his constituents?
Probably much of the money will be diverted anyway, unless Christie is tied to a pole and monitored day and night. What are a few dozen railway fatalities to a governor who cares nothing for 99% of his constituents?
41
unjust and unnecessary estate tax - the 1% wins again.
19
The estate tax in NJ affected way more estates than just the estates of the 1%. Maybe a future legislature will bring the estate tax back in a form that truly only affects the 1%.
5
23 cents more for every gallon is quite an increase.
I worry that the promise regarding these tax dollars will somehow be re-directed to fund other things. Because exactly that has happened before in NJ and under Christie.
61
I hope the tax usage is strictly audited indeed. He loves to take the low road (and block the high bridge).
16
You can say that about all sorts of taxes.