NEW YORK (WCBS 880) – The age-old debate is being dredged up once again in New Jersey: Should drivers be allowed to pump their own gas?
There are some things you just don’t want to debate in New Jersey: Is it pork roll or Taylor ham? Is there such a thing as Central Jersey?
For Gov. Phil Murphy, it’s talking about ending full-service at gas stations. He was asked his opinion about it this week.
“I’m not going near who pumps the gas,” the governor said. “I will not commit political suicide.”
New Jersey is now the last state in the country where it’s illegal to pump your own gas.
The question could be raised again soon as the state nears another potential gas tax increase.
“It’s too early to tell when that comes out, but that will be a decision the treasurer makes in August as she made last year,” Murphy said.
Sal Risalvato, of the New Jersey Gasoline, C-Store, Automotive Association, is ready to see self-service.
“There will be a huge convenience factor. And there will be a cost-savings as well,” he said.
Risalvato told WCBS 880 after the last gas tax increase that letting drivers pump their own gas could mean the price per gallon dropping 10 to 15 cents.
“We think the time has long passed where that should happen,” he said.