Several state-mandated changes will take effect on January 1 that may impact business operating costs and household expenses across New Jersey.

Beginning January 1, New Jersey drivers will pay an additional 4.2 cents per gallon in fuel taxes, increasing the state’s per-gallon levy to 49.1 cents for gasoline and 56.1 cents for diesel fuel. This adjustment is required under state law to ensure adequate funding for ongoing transportation and infrastructure investments. Each fall, state public-finance officials review fuel-consumption trends and determine whether the existing rate will generate sufficient revenue to support planned annual transportation spending.

In addition, New Jersey’s statewide minimum wage will automatically increase to $15.92 per hour on January 1, reflecting the annual cost-of-living adjustment required by the state Constitution. Agricultural workers will see their minimum hourly wage rise to $14.20, up from $13.40, as part of a gradual phase-in that will continue through 2030.

The minimum cash wage for tipped workers will also increase on January 1, rising to $6.05 per hour from $5.62. Under current law, if a tipped employee’s cash wage plus tips does not equal at least the full state minimum wage, the employer is required to pay the difference.