Whenever I embarked on a road trip through Oregon, I found it puzzling that self-service gas pumping was prohibited. Almost invariably, I’d pull up to a pump, start the refueling process, and then be promptly reminded by an attendant that self-service was against the law. I’d often forget this unique rule during my initial fill-up after entering the state.
Curious, I once inquired if the attendant had a special permit or license to pump gas. The young man, seemingly taken aback by my question, responded with a succinct “no.” Probing further, I asked, “Did you receive any specialized training for this?” He chuckled, indicating the apparent absurdity of my question, and said, “No.” I pressed on, “So, what distinguishes you from me in this task?” The answer was clear: nothing, except for an archaic law designed to create employment opportunities, even if they seemed unnecessary. This regulation also inadvertently acted as a hidden tax, with drivers shouldering higher fuel prices to compensate for labor costs. I had been skeptical about the law’s repeal, assuming politicians wouldn’t want to impact employment figures. However, in August of 2023, the Oregon Governor proved me wrong by signing its repeal into law.
For the first time in 72 years, Oregon motorists have the freedom to pump their own gas. This change leaves New Jersey as the sole state where drivers can’t self-serve at gas stations.
Oregon’s prohibition on self-service fueling always struck many as peculiar. Notably, self-service diesel pumping was never restricted. Farmers, truck drivers, and those with access to commercial stations via special cards have always been exempt. But perhaps this isn’t too surprising; after all, Oregon has a penchant for unique legislation.
While Oregon Democrats opposed the new law, citing potential job losses, the state’s residents and visitors can now rejoice in the removal of what many saw as a regressive tax and an inconvenient rule. It wasn’t uncommon for drivers to wait several minutes for an attendant, and in rural areas, station owners often struggled to staff their pumps around the clock.
What’s your take on Oregon’s recent legislative change, allowing drivers the autonomy to pump their own fuel? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Regarding the reason for the original law: Oregon’s self-service ban was primarily rooted in safety concerns. The belief was that professional attendants would handle fuel more safely than the general public, reducing the risk of fires and spills. Over time, however, advancements in pump technology and safety features made these concerns less relevant.
