This is a rather harsh reality: New Jersey is not cheap.

Well Governor Phil Murphy is keeping up the  expensive trend so more money can be put into the public school system, NJ Transit, road repairs and other public issues.

Now, I am not saying that these are bad causes to invest in -- I am just not jumping for joy that our money is what is being relied upon to make these programs successful.

Gas Tax 

Overall, there has been a total of $.27 increase in gas tax that is being used to support the Transportation Trust Fund which pays for transportation infrastructure projects. To make this plan work, it must generate roughly $2 billion a year.

Higher Taxes on the Rich

There is now a higher tax for those earning more than $1 million per year. I am sure I am not the only one who supports this 100%....if you got the money, it is time to pay up.

Higher Taxes on Corporations 

Corporations that earn more than $1 million per year are now being taxed 11.5% instead of 9%. This is another one I am all in favor for. If you have the money, time to pay up.

Uber

No matter the app -- Uber, Lyft etc. -- customers must pay a $.50 surcharge for each trip because it is service that are part of the "sharing economy." (Whatever that means)

Airbnb

Looking to rent? Well now, it will cost you because this is another category that falls under the "shared economy." There is an 11.6% surcharge for short-term rentals, plus the state's 6.625% sales tax PLUS a 5% hotel occupancy fee.

And for certain towns -- there may be additional fees added on top of it all.

Vaping 

E-cigarette users are now paying a $.10 tax per milliliter on liquid nicotine. Is it really worth it?

Online Sales 

The state can now collect tax from online retailers meaning that your orders may be a bit more expensive. This law was passed back in November and is expected to rake in $212 million in its first year.

Rain Tax 

Taxed on rain -- next thing you know we will be taxed for the air we breathe. Property owners are now being charged depending on how much they contribute to run off. The hope is to upgrade storm water systems.

Guns/Ammunition 

It is now a lot more expensive to buy a apply for a permit to own firearms. The cost per application to purchase a firearm is going from $2.00 to $50.00  and the application for a concealed carry permit is going from $20.00 to $400.00. Why such a large increase? The fees have not been adjusted since 1966.

Plus, Murphy is hoping to add a 10% ammunition excise tax and, 2.5% tax for firearms excise and an increased fee on bear hunting.

I know...it is expensive to live in New Jersey and it doesn't look like it is going to be getting cheaper anytime soon.

Take a closer look at our added expenses at APP.com.

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