Pump Your Own Gas? Here's What Basking Ridge Drivers Say

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — As some legislators continue to push for a self-serve gas fueling option, many drivers, including in Basking Ridge, would prefer to sit tight in their car and be served.

A new bill introduced last month, dubbed the Motorist Fueling Choice and Convenience Act, would give gas stations the option of offering self-serve pumps while still requiring stations with more than four dispensers to continue to offer full-service gas pumps.

Supporters of the bill argue that allowing a self-serve option would cut the cost of gas in the state. The New Jersey Gasoline-Convenience-Automotive Association estimated that stations could reduce prices by 15 cents per gallon if they're allowed to offer self-service. Read More: Most NJ Drivers Against Pumping Their Own Gas: Patch Survey

Patch asked drivers whether they would like an added self-service option to gas stations. The responses were mixed among Basking Ridge drivers, yet with more leaning towards not wanting the change.

In total, the Patch question received more than 70 comments. Here are some of the responses:

"Yes! I'd rather pump my own gas. It is usually faster. And if the attendant is busy (or just slow) I do it anyway with a head-up to him that I am doing it," said one driver.

"I’m from Maryland so I pumped own gas for many years but I prefer not to have that gasoline smell on my hands or to get out of car in freezing temps and rain. If they put self serve in, those pumps will be cheaper than full service so most people will opt for self serve. That’s how it is in most states," said another driver.

"If the bill passes, the only good news will be that I will be more motivated to go electric," said a driver.

"No. I prefer to sit in the comfort of my car while someone else is doing it," said a driver.

"I do when I travel out of NJ, but definitely prefer not to. It will NOT lower prices, don't believe the lies," said another driver.

"I do when I travel out of NJ, but definitely prefer not to. It will NOT lower prices, don't believe the lies," said a driver.

An NJ bill would add self-service options to gas stations. How do you feel about it? Would you pump your own gas? Comment below, or join the conversation on the Basking Ridge Patch Facebook page.

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