MADISON, NJ — A recent poll by Fairleigh Dickinson University reveals that New Jersey voters support additional fees on electric vehicles (EVs) by a wide margin, with 65% in favor versus 29% opposed. The poll, conducted for the Fuel Merchants Association of New Jersey, indicates a strong preference for using gas tax and vehicle registration revenues exclusively for roads and bridges rather than for New Jersey Transit subsidies. The survey, which took place on Tuesday, also shows that 58% of voters prefer that these funds are not used to subsidize NJ Transit.
The new fees, endorsed by majorities across both major political parties, will be implemented starting July 1, adding an annual $250 fee on top of normal vehicle registrations for EV owners, which will increase by $10 each year until it reaches $290. This legislative move, signed earlier this year by Governor Murphy, aims to ensure all motorists contribute to the state’s transportation infrastructure costs.
Eric DeGesero, Executive Vice President of the Fuel Merchants Association, commended the decision, emphasizing that EVs, exempt from gas taxes and sales taxes, use heavy batteries that exacerbate road wear and tear. He noted that the revenue is crucial for the Transportation Trust Fund as the state pushes to double its EV numbers by 2025 to meet environmental goals.