Atlantic County Executive Proposes Statewide Tax Shift

Atlantic County executive Dennis Levinson has called for changes to how certain gaming taxes are funded statewide. Levinson presented his 2026 budget address to the Atlantic County Board of Commissioners, arguing that it is unfair for Atlantic County taxpayers alone to absorb financial obligations associated with Atlantic City casinos when the industry’s benefits extend throughout the state.

The Gambling Sector Remains a Significant Revenue Driver

Levinson pointed out that the entire state benefits from Atlantic City’s casino industry. In January alone, casinos, racetracks, and their partners reported $586.4 million in revenue, a 5.9% increase over the same month the previous year. Gaming taxes for the month reached $86.5 million. Industry stakeholders remain optimistic that this momentum will continue through 2026.

The casino industry represents one of New Jersey’s primary economic drivers. In FY 2024, it contributed an impressive $572 million to the Casino Revenue Fund, which finances programs for some of New Jersey’s most vulnerable residents. More than $541 million went to housing for individuals with developmental disabilities, while additional funds supported senior services, pharmaceutical assistance, and personal care programs.

Casinos benefit all state taxpayers, yet only those living in Atlantic County are required to support them with their tax dollars. Why should one county foot the entire bill for something that benefits all?

Atlantic County executive Dennis Levinson

Levinson believes that the state should raise its tax base to match its existing dependence on those funds. According to him, all 21 New Jersey counties should contribute taxes to support Atlantic City casinos. Levinson also proposed a program to more accurately assess property values and mitigate the need for PILOT agreements that create unnecessary burdens.

New Jersey Could Experience a Significant Economic Shift

According to WPG Talk Radio, the proposed 2026 Atlantic County budget totals $283 million, with a $198.5 million tax levy. Levinson said the general-purpose tax rate would be reduced by 2 cents, marking his 18th tax rate cut throughout his 26 years in office. He plans to use $22.5 million in surplus funds, more than half of the available surplus, to help balance the budget.

These discussions coincide with a time of economic change for the state. New Jersey started 2026 with a 43% increase in its minimum wage, which now stands at $15.92 per hour. The higher wage will affect thousands of workers in the hospitality and gaming industries that form the backbone of Atlantic City’s economy.

Any shift in how casino-related taxes are distributed would require legislative action and approval beyond Atlantic County. The Board of Commissioners must first review Levinson’s proposal. After that, New Jersey lawmakers will also consider whether the state’s gaming success story should carry a more evenly shared financial responsibility.