NJ Self-Serve Gas Bill Could Solve Staff Shortages: Assemblymember

NEW JERSEY — A new bill allowing self-serve options at New Jersey gas pumps will reduce staffing shortages while still giving drivers a choice, one of the bill’s sponsors said.

Current state law says it is in the public interest for station attendants to pump gas, to reduce fire hazards. Anyone who violates state law can be fined $50-250 for a first offense, and no more than $500 for further violations. This law has been in effect since 1949.

A new bill, dubbed the Motorist Fueling Choice and Convenience Act, would give gas stations the option of offering self-serve pumps while still requiring stations with more than four dispensers to continue to offer full-service gas pumps.

Assemblymember Carol Murphy (D-7) says some New Jersey residents are concerned there would only be self-service options under the new bill. In an interview with Patch, Murphy emphasized drivers would still have a choice to get full service at the pump.

“If you don’t want to pump your own gas, you don’t have to,” she said.

The bill is sponsored by Murphy, Ned Thomson (R-30) and Annette Chaparro (D-33). It's co-sponsored by Robert Clifton (R-12). The bill was introduced Monday.

In 2015, Senator Declan O’Scanlon Jr. (R-13) proposed ending the ban on self-serve; former Senate President Steve Sweeney blocked the measure.

So, why is now the time to try again?

“It’s mainly because of our staffing shortage,” Murphy said.

Murphy said the bill would help ease the pressure on gas station employees.

The labor shortage has hit gas stations and convenience stores, too, and customers could wait a long time if there are not enough attendants.

Also, attendants who are overworked may be more likely to leave – so Murphy said the bill could help keep jobs, as well.

“That’s what this bill is about, making sure that gas station attendants aren’t working so much that they quit.”

The New Jersey Gasoline, C-Store, and Automotive Association (NJGCA) released a statement in support of the bill. Several members who are gas station owners said it would help their businesses.

Joe Ocello, president of the NJGCA, said the current law is hurting his business.

“When I got into the business years ago it was a great way to make a living, a pathway to the American dream,” said Ocello, who also owns a gas station. “But increasing prices and labor shortages are making it more and more difficult to run a gas station.”

An Assembly committee will review the bill before it goes to the full legislative body. If it is passed, it will not go into effect for 90 days. Murphy said she will take time to speak with business representatives, the Governor’s office, and especially the public as the bill moves forward.

“It’s not going to be passed tomorrow,” she said.

Patch has also reached out to Assemblymember Thomson's office for comment.