Oregon is one of the last two states where drivers are still not allowed to pump their own gas. That is, unless they’re driving in one of the 18 rural counties where it’s permitted. Or they’re refueling a diesel vehicle or motorcycle. Or they’re seeking to fill up their tanks during one of the public health or natural disasters over the past three years in which the state allowed motorists to pump their own gas statewide. Polls have consistently shown that Oregonians are ready for this change to become permanent. It’s time for legislators to give them the green light. In the session now underway, we’re proud to sponsor – bipartisan legislation that would allow Oregonians to fill up their own tanks at gas stations statewide, or to have an attendant do it if that’s what they prefer. This solution carefully balances the needs of Oregon consumers, businesses and employees. The bill ensures access for elderly customers, people with disabilities and anyone else who would rather be served by an attendant. It would simplify the current patchwork of rules drivers now encounter as they travel across the state. Importantly, it also protects existing jobs. Allowing self-service refueling isn’t just about convenience. Over the past two years, we have heard from many gas station owners struggling to recruit and retain enough employees to consistently serve their customers. Because of these difficulties, Oregonians in many parts of the state have encountered closed pumps or long lines as they attempt to refuel while traveling to and from their jobs or school. By easing the requirement that gas must be dispensed by an attendant, HB 2426 will provide necessary relief. We’ve also heard frustration and confusion about Oregon’s existing rules, which vary based on location, time of day and whether a gas station is connected to a convenience store or other business. For example, someone driving east from Boardman to Wallowa may be allowed to pump their own gas in either of those locations, but not if they stop to refuel when crossing through Umatilla, where self-service gas is prohibited. In Tillamook County on the Oregon Coast, drivers are allowed to refuel on their own if they arrive at the gas station at 6 p. m. – but not if they arrive five or 10 minutes earlier. For people driving in these areas, this simply does not make sense. And our bill does not allow self-service gas at the expense of those who want or need an attendant. Rural counties would continue to be allowed to offer self-service gas, and gas stations in other counties would be required to designate at least 50% of their pumps for attendant-provided service. Gas stations would also be required to offer attended service for the same price as self-service gas. A poll conducted by The Nelson Report in October 2021 found strong support for providing Oregonians the option of self-service or service from an attendant with 68. 8% of registered Oregon voters favoring a choice. An earlier poll by DHM Research showed that such majority support exists across all age groups, political parties and regions of the state. Oregon drivers have already been safely pumping their gas in many parts of the state. Every day, people all over the country do it, too. It’s time to give all Oregonians this choice. .