WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer is urging New Jersey officials to reject proposed tax increases tied to funding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, warning the measures could place an added burden on residents and small businesses.
In a letter sent to Gov. Mikie Sherrill, Senate President Nicholas Scutari, Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin and NJ Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri, the congressman expressed concern over proposals that could raise taxes and transit costs in areas near MetLife Stadium.
Gottheimer specifically criticized a plan that would increase the state sales tax for those living within a 30-square-mile radius of the Meadowlands.
“People in our state are already stretched too thin, and we should not ask them to cover even more costs tied to FIFA World Cup,” wrote Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “New Jersey taxpayers should be excluded from all fare hikes and tax increases related to the games.”
Under the proposal, the sales tax could rise from 6.625% to 9.625% in the affected area. Gottheimer said the plan would shift the financial burden of hosting the international event onto local communities.
“These communities didn’t ask for higher taxes; they shouldn’t be punished for living near an event venue,” Gottheimer added.
The congressman noted that he has worked to secure federal resources to support World Cup planning and said the event should generate economic benefits without increasing costs for residents.
“Hosting the World Cup is an incredible opportunity, and I have no doubt our state will shine under the spotlight,” Gottheimer wrote. “But, we must ensure that success does not come at the expense of families and small businesses.”
Gottheimer serves as a member of the Congressional Soccer Caucus and vice chair of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Caucus.
