Atlantic City, NJ State Takeover Legislation Has Expired: What’s Next?

We had an informative on-air interview this morning with New Jersey Senator Vince Polistina, R-2, including a wide-ranging segment about Atlantic City.

State Takeover Of Atlantic City Legislation Has Expired

As of December 1, 2025. By state law, the state’s absolute power over the day-to-day operations of Atlantic City is lifted.

However, Senator Polistina advised that the state still has certain agreements in Atlantic City that remain in place.

For example, there’s transitional aid. The state has been providing Atlantic City with tens of millions of dollars of transitional aid each and every year.

Should Atlantic City try to change the status quo, they have much to lose.

The City of Atlantic City would face the prospect of having to make massive cuts should the state discontinue the transitional aid for the city and the local Board of Education.

Polistina Discussed The New Atlantic City Legislation

That will be introduced on Monday, December 8, 2025, as Atlantic City is currently not able to operate under the normal rules of self-governance.

The new legislation will be for a 5-year period. Polistina would have preferred the legislation to be for a 10-year term … “in order to achieve stability for the City of Atlantic City, along with business and industry,” said Polistina.

The Legislation Has Been In Effect For The Past Decade

It was officially called The New Jersey Municipal Stabilization and Recovery Act (MSRA) of 2016.

This has provided for state oversight and a casino revenue framework (PILOTs) payments in lieu of taxes, in order ensure stable funding,

Polistina Wants To Diversify The Atlantic County Regional Economy

The overall importance and strength of the Atlantic City Casino industry cannot be overstated.

However, Polistina wants Atlantic County to have a diverse economy, which he is convinced can and will happen.

One example of this is the Federal Aviation Research Park. “We want to transform the economy for the best interests of the residents of Atlantic County,” said Polistina.

Polistina on 2016 & A New Governor

Polistina enjoyed a positive and very effective working relationship with Governor Phil Murphy. Polistina is planning to achieve the same with new Governor Mikie Sherrill.

I came back in 2021 and ran for office in order to win and get things done,”said Polistina.

SOURCE: Senator Vince Polistina — Harry Hurley on-air interview (December 5, 2025).