Essex County urges state to restore corporate surcharge to shore up NJ Transit funding

The Essex County Board of Commissioners on Monday adopted a resolution urging state lawmakers and the governor to extend and dedicate the corporate business tax (CBT) surcharge as a revenue source for New Jersey Transit and infrastructure projects.

The resolution, sponsored by Commissioner Gill and the board president, passed by acclamation and roll call. Eric Benson, who identified himself as a housing, environmental and labor advocate and a retired Essex environmental commissioner, told the board the corporate surcharge’s lapse on Dec. 31 reduced state revenue by about $1 billion and that NJ Transit is facing an estimated $800 million deficit even after a 15% fare increase earlier this year. “Any increases in fares and or cuts to service would have drastic impacts on our residents,” Benson said.

The board framed the resolution as a request that state officials dedicate new or restored corporate revenue to NJ Transit and related infrastructure projects so county residents, many of whom rely on transit to commute to work and school, are not further burdened by reduced service or higher fares. Commissioners voiced support in the meeting and moved the resolution by acclamation; a roll call recorded the measure as approved with several members absent.

Why it matters: Essex County leaders said they rely on stable state transportation funding to preserve service for densely populated, transit-dependent neighborhoods and to protect regional economic links to New York City. The resolution asks state officials to consider the CBT surcharge extension as a funding solution, but it does not bind state lawmakers.

What’s next: The resolution is a formal expression of the county’s preference; any change to the corporate tax structure or its dedication to transit would require action by the state legislature and governor.