Few people know it but Oregon and New Jersey are the only two states in our union that forbid people from pumping their own gas. In all fairness, each has exceptions. Oregon has limited exceptions for commercial drivers and motorcyclists. In New Jersey, you can pump your own gas if you are a politician, know Governor Chris Christie, or are a member of the Mafia.
That may soon change, folks. Oregon's moving into the latter quarter of the 20th century
Today's Oregonian reports that our legislature passed a bill allowing us to pump our own gas in counties with fewer than 40,000 residents (half of our 36 counties) between the hours of 6 PM and 6 AM. The bill now goes to Governor Kate Brown for her (presumed) signature.
One concern: in a state that just legalized marijuana, perhaps this is not a good idea.
"Today I voted for limited self-service gas in extremely rural areas late at night. Am I still a real Oregonian?" - Sen. Sara Gelser, D-Corvallis
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