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Bloomberg: Odd-Even Gas Rationing Could Remain In Place 'For A While'

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - New York City will continue its odd-even gas rationing system which was implemented late last week, Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced Monday.

Bloomberg said the system, which limits people to filling up only on even or odd days, depending on the last digit of their license plate.

WCBS 880's Rich Lamb reports

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"It's hard to measure but it looks like there are a handful more gas stations open than there were yesterday and the day before. Anecdotal evidence is that lines are shorter and hopefully that's true," Bloomberg told reporters including WCBS 880's Rich Lamb. "I see no harm in leaving it in for a while. It's not that much of an inconvenience, people have gotten used to it already. Let's ride with it."

Bloomberg said it is hard to get accurate numbers to show how effective the gas rationing is, but said all evidence points to success in New York City.

"It's also true that if people think the lines are shorter, then they're going to behave differently. They're not going to try to fill up when they're down only a quarter of a tank," Bloomberg said.

The mayor also said the rationing is helpful while all gas stations get back to full functionality.

"With time, the distribution facilities that haven't been functioning will come back online," he said.

Also Monday, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie announced the odd-even rationing put in effect on Nov. 3 will be lifted as of Tuesday morning.

Have you noticed a positive difference because of the gas rationing system? Share your comments below...

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