Assemblymen Christopher DePhillips and Al Barlas criticized on Mar. 30 a legislative proposal to impose new taxes, surcharges, and fees during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in New Jersey, urging Governor Mikie Sherrill to reject the plan.
The lawmakers said the proposed tax increases would hurt businesses and visitors while reinforcing New Jersey’s reputation for high taxes. The bill, introduced by Senator Paul Sarlo, would temporarily raise sales taxes by 3% in the Meadowlands region, add a 2.5% hotel surcharge in most counties, increase fees on transportation to and from MetLife Stadium, and implement a 10% surcharge on sports betting related to the tournament.
“In October, the governor said she would not raise the sales tax. That’s exactly what this does,” DePhillips said. “If we truly want to make New Jersey a destination, we should be lowering taxes, not raising them during one of the biggest international events we’ve ever hosted.”
Barlas also raised concerns about how these changes could impact businesses already operating under what he described as difficult conditions. “Changing the rules of the game after the fact is wrong,” Barlas said. “Businesses made investments and commitments based on one set of expectations. Now Trenton wants to move the goalposts to cover its own spending. That’s a huge disservice to both large and small businesses already trying to survive under bad policy.”
Supporters of the bill argue that additional revenue is needed for infrastructure improvements around MetLife Stadium as well as costs tied to security and event preparation for hosting World Cup matches.
DePhillips countered that more economic activity—not higher taxes—would better serve residents: “New Jersey taxpayers have already spent more than $300 million to host these games,” he said. “The way to make that money back is by encouraging people to come here, spend here and come back again — not by taxing them the moment they arrive.”
Barlas warned that unpredictable policies could deter future investment: “When government shows it’s willing to change the rules midstream, future investors take notice,” he said. “That’s how you lose opportunities before they even start. If we want growth, jobs and investment, we need predictability and lower taxes — not another cash grab.”
John DiMaio has been involved with state politics for many years; he served with Warren County Board of Freeholders from 2000 through 2009 according to his official legislative roster. DiMaio represents District 23—including Hackettstown—and joined New Jersey’s General Assembly in 2009 before becoming Minority Leader in 2022 according to official records. He previously held roles such as Appropriations Officer (2012–2017) and Budget Officer (2018–2019), was mayor of Hackettstown from 1991 through 1999 as documented, and continues his work as legislator today.
The debate over temporary tax increases highlights ongoing discussions about balancing fiscal needs with economic competitiveness during major international events.
