In an unexpected ruling, the Supreme Court of the United States held that New Jersey could withdraw from the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor. It was a 9-0 unanimous decision announced Tuesday.
The commission was established in 1953 by both New York and New Jersey to combat the mob at their joint port. At the time, organized crime had become an intimidating and potent force in the area.
The two-member commission—with one commissioner from each state—manages licensing and inspections at the Port of New York and New Jersey. Employing around 70 people, it even has its own police force.
But since the 1950s, New Jersey has argued that the threat of organized crime has gone away and so being a part of the commission hurts economic growth for the state.
In a majority opinion by Justice Brett Kavanaugh, the nation’s highest court agreed.
“We hold that New Jersey may unilaterally withdraw from the Waterfront Commission Compact notwithstanding New York’s opposition,” he wrote for the court.
New Jersey had wanted out since 2018 when Chris Christie signed a bill beginning his state’s withdrawal. New York subsequently went to court to keep New Jersey in, arguing that they had no authority to leave and thereby dissolve the commission. The issue lingered on for years until being resolved now. Kavanaugh cited the vague language of the contract; it could indeed be terminated “at the will of either party.”
Most of the cargo now goes through New Jersey, whereas 70 years ago it was the other way around.
NJ Governor Phil Murphy was “thrilled” at the ruling. For every New Jersey politician who has wanted to see this move go through, it was truly the ultimate vindication.
Meanwhile, NY Governor Kathy Hochul and AG Letitia James were “disappointed.”
