At the Policy Impact Roundtable on May 28, 2025, Greater Atlantic City Chamber members had the opportunity to ask questions and engage in lively conversation with Congressman Jeff Van Drew and fellow attendees. Congressman Jeff Van Drew—who serves on both the House Judiciary Committee and the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee—outlined a wide array of infrastructure investments, legislative initiatives, and economic priorities aimed at supporting Atlantic City, Atlantic County, and the South Jersey Region. Van Drew announced that South Jersey has received nearly $1 billion in federal investment across critical infrastructure sectors, including improvements to bridges, roads, and broadband expansion over the past several years.
Key road improvement projects in Atlantic City are moving forward. The repaving of Pacific Avenue has been approved, while the repaving of Atlantic Avenue is currently delayed due to grant funding application challenges. However, Van Drew expressed confidence that the project will advance.
The Congressman emphasized his continued commitment to defending Atlantic City’s gaming industry from potential threats posed by North Jersey casino expansion. It was noted that the Atlantic City Data Center currently supports 90% of New Jersey’s regulated online gaming.
The EnVision Center, focused on cybersecurity and electrical technician training, as well as professional development services such as resume writing and interview preparation, in Atlantic City, has expanded. A recently secured federal grant will enable new graduates of the center to have job opportunities in Atlantic City.
Van Drew also addressed the importance of coastal protection and beach replenishment efforts. He is working to lift environmental restrictions that delay jetty construction and beach replenishment projects. Collaboration is underway with Resorts Casino Hotel to conduct targeted studies for erosion “hotspots” along the Atlantic City coast. Additionally, Van Drew is working closely with the EPA to develop more effective building elevation regulations aimed at protecting coastal communities from hurricanes and flooding without imposing undue hardships on local businesses.
Van Drew confirmed that the FAA Technical Facility in South Jersey will remain in place under the FAA Renewal Plan. Enhancements in advanced aerospace technologies, including drone technology, are also expected, supported by increased federal funding.
The Congressman provided an update on the Lake Lenape Dam, which poses potential risks to Hamilton Township due to its degrading structure. A $4.6 million federal grant has been secured for its reconstruction, with completion expected by the end of the year.
Van Drew acknowledged concerns over how changes in the federal budget could affect state funding for healthcare, education, and vulnerable populations. The Congressman emphasized his goals of protecting vulnerable populations, helping hospitals, and preserving funding for NJ FamilyCare. He reassured chamber members that, under the House-passed Budget Reconciliation Bill, Medicare and Social Security will remain untouched, emphasizing that while budget adjustments are underway, they will be gradual. Furthermore, proposed changes in Medicaid federal guidelines will include work requirements for certain Medicaid recipients. However, exemptions will be made for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and ill individuals who provide physician certification. Those who are required to fulfill work mandates may meet them through employment (20 hours a week), volunteering, or pursuing education online (high school, college, or skill-based courses). Eligibility will be reviewed every six months rather than annually.
Van Drew spoke about reforms to penalize states with SNAP error rates above 10%. He noted that New Jersey currently ranks 49th in the nation in terms of error rate (36% in FY2023), indicating a strong need for reform to decrease misspending of taxpayer dollars.
Switching topics, Congressman Van Drew warned that the energy crisis could intensify as increased demand from AI technologies strains the grid, driving energy prices higher.
He also addressed concerns about the high state and local tax burdens on residents and businesses in New Jersey. To alleviate this, he supported the increase of the federal SALT (State and Local Tax) deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000 in the House Budget Bill. Additionally, Van Drew highlighted that the Budget Bill also includes the exemption of tips and overtime pay from taxation.
To address housing challenges, Van Drew is promoting efforts to incentivize the construction of modest, affordable housing. His approach includes relaxing regulatory barriers to accelerate building permits, without compromising environmental standards.
The Greater Atlantic City Chamber hosts unique opportunities, such as the Policy Impact Roundtable, for members to engage directly with policymakers to share their concerns and voice their perspectives to help shape policy decisions. For more information about upcoming chamber events and initiatives, please contact our office at (609) 345-4524 or visit our website.
