Hudson County Chamber of Commerce Urges State Delegation to Oppose FIFA World Cup Surcharge Bill

The Hudson County Chamber of Commerce is urging the state’s legislative delegation to oppose A4838/S4111, a bill that would impose temporary surcharges on hotels, dining, retail purchases, transportation, and entertainment transactions to fund preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a public letter to the Hudson County state delegation, Chamber CEO Emory Edwards said the bill’s approach risks undermining the economic activity it is meant to support.

“While we support New Jersey’s role in hosting global events and recognize the opportunity they present, this bill uses a flawed approach that risks undermining the economic activity it seeks to generate,” the letter states.

The Chamber argues the surcharges would put New Jersey at a competitive disadvantage against neighboring markets, particularly New York, and would fall unevenly on Hudson County residents and businesses depending on whether their municipality falls within the Meadowlands District. Communities specifically cited include Jersey City, Kearny, North Bergen, and Secaucus.

The letter also raises concerns that revenues generated by the surcharges would flow into the state’s General Fund without a dedicated connection to World Cup infrastructure, public safety, or tourism investments.

“Businesses and consumers should not be asked to shoulder additional costs without transparency and accountability regarding how those funds are used,” the letter states.

The Chamber also flagged administrative burdens on businesses required to collect and remit the surcharges, including absorbing credit card processing fees on the added charges.