Why Do They Pump Your Gas in New Jersey?
New Jersey is one of only two states in the United States where it is illegal for customers to pump their own gas. This unusual law has been in place since 1949, and there are several reasons why it has not been repealed.
One reason is that the New Jersey Gasoline Retailers Association (NJGRA) has lobbied heavily against any changes to the law. The NJGRA argues that self-service gas stations would lead to job losses, increased gas prices, and safety hazards. Some critics of the law, however, believe that the NJGRA is simply protecting its own financial interests.
History of Self-Service Gas Stations in New Jersey
Self-service gas stations were first introduced in the United States in the 1950s. They quickly became popular due to their convenience and lower prices. However, there were also some safety concerns about self-service gas stations, as they allowed customers to handle gasoline, which is a flammable liquid.
In 1949, New Jersey passed a law prohibiting self-service gas stations. The law was passed in response to a fire at a self-service gas station in Elizabeth, New Jersey, that killed two people. According to the website nj.com, the two men were filling a can of gasoline when it spilled onto the ground and ignited, causing the fire.
The Debate Over Self-Service Gas Stations in New Jersey
There has been some debate over the years about whether or not New Jersey should repeal its ban on self-service gas stations. Proponents of self-service gas stations argue that it would lead to lower gas prices and more convenience for customers. Opponents of self-service gas stations argue that it would lead to job losses, increased gas prices, and safety hazards.
In 2021, a bill was introduced in the New Jersey Legislature that would have allowed self-service gas stations in the state. However, the bill was not passed by the Legislature. It is unclear whether or not the ban on self-service gas stations in New Jersey will be repealed in the future.
Tips for Finding a Gas Station in New Jersey
If you are visiting New Jersey and need to get gas, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you will need to find a gas station that offers full-service gas. Second, you should be prepared to pay a slightly higher price for gas in New Jersey than you would in other states. Finally, you should be aware that some gas stations in New Jersey may not accept credit cards.
Expert Advice on Gas Stations in New Jersey
Here are some expert tips for finding a gas station in New Jersey:
- Use a gas station locator app to find the nearest gas station that offers full-service gas.
- Call ahead to the gas station to make sure they accept credit cards.
- Be prepared to pay a slightly higher price for gas in New Jersey than you would in other states.
FAQ About Gas Stations in New Jersey
Q: Why is it illegal to pump your own gas in New Jersey?
A: It is illegal to pump your own gas in New Jersey due to a law that was passed in 1949 in response to a fire at a self-service gas station that killed two people.
Q: Are there any self-service gas stations in New Jersey?
A: No, there are no self-service gas stations in New Jersey.
Q: How much does it cost to fill up a tank of gas in New Jersey?
A: The cost of filling up a tank of gas in New Jersey varies depending on the type of gas and the gas station. However, you can expect to pay a slightly higher price for gas in New Jersey than you would in other states.
Conclusion
New Jersey’s ban on self-service gas stations is a unique law that has been in place for over 70 years. There are several reasons why the law has not been repealed, including lobbying by the New Jersey Gasoline Retailers Association and safety concerns.
If you are visiting New Jersey and need to get gas, you will need to find a gas station that offers full-service gas. You should also be prepared to pay a slightly higher price for gas in New Jersey than you would in other states. Finally, you should be aware that some gas stations in New Jersey may not accept credit cards.
Are you interested in learning more about gas stations in New Jersey?
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Oregonians and People in New Jersey Aren’t Allowed to Pump Their Own Gas Aug 6, 2023As Gothamist reports, New Jersey is now the only state in the country where drivers cannot pump their own gas. Oregon, which had been in a similar situation, recently enacted a law allowing driver the option of pumping their own gas or having it pumped. As for the odds of New Jersey joining Oregon, that seems less clear — as Gothamist noted
