New Jersey lawmakers have introduced legislation that would impose temporary surcharges on hotels, retail purchases, rideshare trips, and sports betting during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament, which will feature eight matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, is expected to draw a massive influx of visitors beginning in June 2026.
Governor Mikie Sherrill has backed plans for these temporary fees, but the specific bill—Assembly Bill A4838—was introduced by Assemblyman Michael Venezia on May 4. The proposal adds a 10% surcharge on sports betting operators’ net revenue during the World Cup, along with other fees. A matching Senate bill has also been filed.
According to reports, the bill would add:
– A 2.5% surcharge on hotel rooms across most of New Jersey
– A 3% sales surcharge on shopping, food, and tickets within the Meadowlands district (about 30 square miles)
– A $0.50 surcharge on Uber and Lyft trips to and from the stadium area
– A 10% surcharge on online sports betting operator revenue (not directly on bettors)
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While the legislation would lead to higher prices, the additional charges are only temporary—in effect through July 20, when the World Cup ends. The fees apply only to the Meadowlands area. The goal is to offset hosting costs such as expanded bus and train services, increased police presence, and additional cleanup.
New Jersey lawmakers argue that local residents should not bear the financial burden of hosting the tournament alone. According to the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP), host cities are expected to lose millions in tax revenue due to FIFA-related exemptions while still facing significant public expenses—estimates range from $100 million to $200 million for infrastructure, security, and logistics.
If the bill passes, residents who pay extra during the event may be eligible for reimbursement through tax credits. However, the proposal has drawn bipartisan criticism.
Rep. Josh Gottheimer has urged Governor Sherrill and legislative leaders to reconsider, stating in a letter that residents never asked for higher taxes. “In October, the governor said she would not raise the sales tax. That’s exactly what this does,” said Assemblyman Christopher DePhillips. Assemblyman Al Barlas argued that businesses near the stadium had already made plans and investments based on different expectations. “Changing the rules of the game after the fact is wrong,” Barlas added, criticizing the rushed timeline.