What’s So Bad About Pumping Our Own Gas, New Jersey?

Don't you think it's time we handle our own pumps at the station?

A couple of months ago, a bill was proposed to allow New Jersey residents to pump their own gas.  It was met with a lot of criticism and ultimately didn't pass.

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I understand the hesitation behind introducing self serve to the Garden State.  With anything new, comes fear.

Having gas attendants creates more jobs, which helps the economy.  And on a less serious note, it's nice not to have to leave your car during New Jersey's harsh winters and humid summers.

To put it plainly, I really think we messed up on this one, New Jersey.

I've lived in a couple of states where I had to pump my own gas, and it's really not as bad as it seems.  I actually prefer having my own control over being able to leave once I'm done instead of waiting for a busy attendant to wrap up with other customers.

If the bill passed, gas stations could have had both full service and self serve options.  It was shocking to see that people still opposed it even though it seemed to make everyone happy.

The most baffling thing about New Jersey opposing self-serve gas is the money it could have saved us.  Gas prices are at record highs right now.  So many people complain about the prices.  Why turn down something that could have potentially provided us some financial relief?

If the bill ever comes back on the table, I really think we should reconsider.