Report: New Jersey Self-Service Gas Bill Gaining Momentum

FORT LEE, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- Could people in New Jersey finally be allowed to pump their own gas?

For 66 years, New Jersey gas stations by law have been exclusively full service. The law was passed in the name of safety, although it was backed by small station owners who feared losing business to big retailers.

But big oil no longer poses a threat, and station owners have changed their minds.

The Record newspaper reports that support is growing for a bill that would allow drivers to pump their own gas.

One gas station attendant told WCBS 880's Sean Adams he doesn't think everyone wants to pump their own.

"Some people like it; some people don't like it," he said. "It is most comfortable when there's a rain, when there's snow coming, when it's very hot. People like to sit in the car, and they feel very comfortable."

Another gas station attendant told 1010 WINS' Rebecca Granet that he's worried about losing his job.

"I tell you, it's no fair," he said. "I want to stay at my job."

It's unclear how many part-time gas station attendant jobs might be lost.

Gov. Chris Christie has not yet taken a position.

State Assemblyman Declan O'Scanlon, R-Red Bank, is among a bi-partisan group leading the effort to end the ban on self-serve. He said convenience is one aspect.

"It really irks me when I pull into a gas station and have to wait," O'Scanlon said.

Backers also said self-service would be cheaper.

The proposal would not do away with full service altogether. Under the proposal, gas stations would have to keep at least one full-service island for three years.

State Sen. Gerald Cardinale said there's a plan in the works to retrain attendants for other jobs that could provide the opportunity for better pay.

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