State Budget Provides Grants To Gas Stations In The Event Of A Superstorm

ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- The New York state budget will give grants to gas stations for generators so that if another superstorm like Sandy hits, there will not be interminable lines at gas stations.

As WCBS 880's Sophia Hall reported, most of us remember the nightmares at the pumps last fall, with long lines of drivers sitting parked in their cars for blocks leading up to gas stations. But with the new state budget set to be approved next week, gas stations will be required by April of 2014 to have backup capability so that even if the lights are out, you can still fill up your tanks.

"Any gas station on Long Island, New York City, Westchester and Rockland County that's within half a mile of an evacuation route or a limited-access highway exit will be required to be pre-wired to receive a generator," said state Sen. Charles Fuschillo Jr. (R-Merrick.)

And gas station owners will get help with the costs.

"Through the federal government, New York State has made an application that any gas station that conforms with this law will receive funding to be pre-wired up to $10,000," Fuschillo said.

Governor Andrew Cuomo and legislative leaders reached a state budget agreement on Wednesday. Among other provisions, it will raise the minimum wage to $9 an hour over three years, and keep spending increases just under 2 percent while cutting taxes on businesses and families.

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