Illegal to pump your own gas?

In Oregon it is illegal to pump your own gas unless you own the dispensing device and are properly trained. That’s right, not only must you actually own the machine but must also be able to properly pump other people’s gas.

This is neither fake nor an exaggeration. It is filed under a section of the law entitled “operation of gasoline dispensing device by public prohibited.” The law itself specifies even further, “No owner, operator, or employee of any filling station, garage, or other dispensary where Class 1 flammable liquids are dispensed at retail, shall permit any person other than the owner, operator, or employee to use or manipulate any pump, hose, pipe or other device for dispensing such liquids into the fuel tank of a motor vehicle or other retail container.”

So yes, it is illegal to pump your own gas in Oregon. This law is also found in New Jersey, strangely enough. Thank god we have “gas dispensing technicians” to help us with this extremely important and life altering work for us in both states. I have always wondered why this law even exists to restrict pumping of gas. I mean these are the only two states that I’ve ever heard of where this is true but the other 48 states seem to be doing just fine pumping their own gas so why does this law exist?

For this law I am simply baffled. I guess it could be a liability or insurance clause for the oil companies or the state to avert lawsuits or problems? But in this case I have no idea why this is still in effect in either or both places and it seems a little bit pointless to me, personally. I mean it’s not like chaos has resulted in any other state where this isn’t a law.

Anyways, enjoy being pampered in Oregon and New Jersey with car-side assistance from your very own technician due to this crazy law!