Garden State Times

Prominent figures in New Jersey have shared their thoughts on the Transportation Trust Fund and the ongoing discussions regarding its reauthorization. Christopher Emigholz, Chief Government Affairs Officer at NJBIA, expressed gratitude for considering reforms within the transportation system while addressing New Jersey's affordability and high taxes. Emigholz stated, "We look forward to the continued dialogue about how we increase investments in our transportation infrastructure in a responsible manner."

Christina M. Renna, President & CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey, emphasized the importance of infrastructure investment in the economy. Renna highlighted concerns about tying transportation projects to an increased gasoline tax, stating, "If we want to make New Jersey more affordable, the tax and fee increases have to stop."

Eileen Kean, NJ State Director of the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), expressed reservations about additional taxes burdening small businesses. Kean suggested an independent audit of New Jersey Transit to address spending issues rather than imposing further taxes on businesses.

Eric Blomgren, Chief Administrator and Director of Government Affairs at the New Jersey Gasoline, C-Store, Automotive Association, raised concerns about the impact of escalating fuel taxes on businesses near state borders. Blomgren advocated for funding infrastructure needs without increasing fuel taxes to benefit consumers.

Regina Egea, President of the Garden State Initiative, endorsed the New Jersey Transit Accountability Act's approach of conducting a third-party audit to identify cost-saving opportunities. Egea stressed the importance of fiscal responsibility and urged legislators to make tough decisions to steer New Jersey in the right direction.

Former State Senator Steve Oroho, a key figure in the 2016 TTF reauthorization, acknowledged the fund's improved financial health in 2024 compared to its previous insolvency. Oroho highlighted the success of past actions in addressing structural issues within the TTF and proposed measures to boost local transportation funding without raising the gas tax.

Andrew Sidamon-Eristoff, Former Treasurer of the State of New Jersey, criticized the current public finance strategy, expressing concerns about the long-term financial implications of diverting funds from the Debt Defeasance and Avoidance Fund. Sidamon-Eristoff warned about the potential financial burden on taxpayers in the future.

Mayor Deb Buzby-Cope of Bass River Township voiced support for Senator Tiver's plan to fund the Transportation Trust Fund without increasing the gas tax. Buzby-Cope emphasized the importance of maintaining crucial state and local grants for road repairs without imposing additional tax burdens.

The diverse range of opinions from these prominent voices reflects the ongoing discussions and considerations surrounding the reauthorization of the Transportation Trust Fund in New Jersey. For further inquiries, individuals can reach out to Kyle Fischer, SRO communications director, at [email protected].