The Quirky Gas Pumping Laws of Oregon
When it comes to pumping gas, most Americans are used to doing it themselves. However, in the state of Oregon, the law requires that gas station attendants pump gas for customers. This may seem like a small detail, but for those who are not used to it, it can be quite a shock. In this article, we will explore the quirky gas pumping laws of Oregon and why they exist.
The Law
The law requiring gas station attendants to pump gas in Oregon dates back to 1951. At that time, the state was concerned about the safety of its citizens and wanted to prevent accidents caused by inexperienced drivers pumping their own gas. The law was also intended to create jobs for gas station attendants.
Today, the law remains in effect, but there are some exceptions. Motorcyclists and those driving vehicles with a fuel capacity of 1,000 gallons or more are allowed to pump their own gas. Additionally, some rural areas of the state have exemptions that allow customers to pump their own gas during certain hours.
The Controversy
Despite being in effect for over 70 years, the law requiring gas station attendants to pump gas in Oregon is still controversial. Some argue that it is an unnecessary regulation that creates jobs that could be filled by machines. Others argue that it is a safety measure that prevents accidents and protects jobs.
In 2018, the controversy reached national attention when a video of a woman in Oregon went viral. In the video, the woman was upset about having to wait for a gas station attendant to pump her gas and argued that she was perfectly capable of doing it herself. The video sparked a heated debate on social media, with some supporting the woman’s argument and others defending the law.
The Benefits
While the law requiring gas station attendants to pump gas in Oregon may seem quirky to outsiders, there are some benefits to the system. For one, it creates jobs for gas station attendants, who are often paid minimum wage or slightly above. Additionally, it ensures that customers receive assistance with their gas needs, such as checking oil levels and tire pressure.
Another benefit of the law is that it can prevent accidents caused by inexperienced drivers. Gasoline is a highly flammable substance, and accidents can occur if it is not handled properly. By having trained professionals pump gas, the risk of accidents is reduced.
The Drawbacks
Despite the benefits, there are also some drawbacks to the law requiring gas station attendants to pump gas in Oregon. For one, it can be inconvenient for customers who are used to pumping their own gas. This is especially true for those who need to fill up during off-hours when attendants may not be available.
Additionally, the law can be costly for gas station owners. They must pay for attendants to be on duty at all times, even during slow periods when there may not be many customers. This can cut into profits and make it difficult for small gas stations to stay in business.
Conclusion
The law requiring gas station attendants to pump gas in Oregon may seem quirky to outsiders, but it has been in effect for over 70 years. While there are some benefits to the system, such as job creation and accident prevention, there are also drawbacks, such as inconvenience for customers and increased costs for gas station owners.
Ultimately, whether or not the law should be repealed is a matter of debate. Some argue that it is an unnecessary regulation that creates jobs that could be filled by machines. Others argue that it is a safety measure that prevents accidents and protects jobs. Regardless of where you stand on the issue, one thing is clear: pumping gas in Oregon is a little different than it is in the rest of the country.
