NJ proposes sales tax for duration of FIFA World Cup in Meadowlands area: What to know

The FIFA World Cup is less than 100 days out and New Jersey lawmakers are proposing a sales tax that would go into effect during the world’s biggest sporting event.

The proposal is aimed at tourists and looks to offset the costs of bringing the World Cup to the state, which many locals are excited to host.

“I just feel that the World Cup is, it’s the enthusiasm, people cheering for their country,” soccer fan Alex Corrado told NBC New York. “That’s how I feel. It’s been instilled in me since a young age, I bleed Italian blue!”

Among some lawmakers, there’s concern after a pair of new bills were introduced in Trenton in late March. If passed, they could increase the overall cost for those in town to take in the spectacle.

According to Assembly Bill 4838, there would be an increase in the sales tax by 3%, add a hotel occupancy tax of 2.5%, add 50 cents for rideshare trips and a 10% tax on sports gambling.

This would only occur from mid-June to late-July, solely in the “Meadowlands district,” assuming it passes.

The sponsors of the bills were not made available for comment Tuesday.

In a statement, the governor’s office said: “This is a once-in-a-generation event, and Governor Sherrill is committed to ensuring that the FIFA World Cup is safe, successful and showcases the best of New Jersey. Governor Sherrill will also work with the legislature to ensure the FIFA World Cup brings real economic benefits for the state of New Jersey, our businesses, and most importantly keeps costs down for residents.”

Speaking of economic benefits, the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce says businesses in the region are expected to be booming in the weeks ahead.

“With this opportunity, Rutherford can take advantage of the added traffic,” President of the RCC, Dan Meredith, said. “That’s going to increase the local economy.”

The FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11, with the first game between Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City. MetLife Stadium’s first game will be on June 13, between Brazil and Morocco.