TRENTON, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — Tolls are going up a bit on the New Jersey Turnpike after the turnpike authority unanimously approved the 2024 budget this week.
The $2.6 billion New Jersey Turnpike budget calls for 3% toll increases. Gov. Phil Murphy says he’ll sign off on the budget soon.
Murphy vetoed the same budget in late October. Both Democrats and Republicans in the legislature celebrated the move at the time, saying it would make the state more affordable for middle and low income families.
But Murphy will now greenlight those same toll increases. A Murphy spokesman says, “By investing in the maintenance of our state’s highways and mass transit, we are continuing to prioritize the safety and mobility of all New Jersey residents and commuters.”
Republicans say the initial veto was nothing but a political stunt to grab votes ahead of the election.
“Democrats continue to talk about affordability to entice hardworking New Jerseyans for their vote and then stick them with the bill for their failing policies and budget mismanagement,” said Senate Minority Leader Anthony Bucco.
“Republicans want a seat at the table to help avoid these burdensome increases, but unfortunately, we are seeing the result of one-party rule as millions of New Jerseyans struggle to make ends meet.”
Murphy’s press office didn’t provide an answer when asked what changed his mind to go from veto to approval on the same budget.