In a move that is certain to spark renewed controversy, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority on Tuesday approved its 2024 budget, which includes a 3% toll hike.
The toll increase, which has been criticized by both parties as unfairly burdening struggling New Jersey residents, is now set to take effect later this year, pending any potential veto from Governor Murphy.
This development comes amid ongoing affordability issues and just months after the initial veto, which some saw as a politically motivated move ahead of the November elections.
The fate of the toll hike remains uncertain, as the governor’s office has yet to indicate whether he will veto the budget again, but Republicans are already lashing out at Democrats over it.
“Toll increases will be the latest broken promise by Governor Murphy and fellow Trenton Democrats,” said Sen. Anthony Bucco. “From talks of reinstating the corporate business tax surcharge and increasing the sales tax, to NJ Transit fare increases, and now toll increases – Democrats continue to talk about affordability to entice hardworking New Jerseyans for their vote and then stick them with the bill for their failing policies and budget mismanagement. Republicans want a seat at the table to help avoid these burdensome increases but unfortunately, we are seeing the result of one-party rule as millions of New Jerseyans struggle to make ends meet.”