New Jersey's law preventing self-serve gas stations stems from safety and job concerns

New Jersey remains the only U.S. state where drivers cannot pump their own gas. This law, dating back to 1949, is rooted in safety and job preservation. The Retail Gasoline Dispensing Safety Act mandates trained attendants to handle fuel dispensing, citing concerns over fire risks, health hazards from fumes, and ensuring safety rules like turning off engines are followed. This full-service model also supports approximately 10,000 jobs in New Jersey for auto and watercraft service attendants, contributing to the state's economy.