CASAGRANDE LEGISLATION TO CRACK DOWN ON GAS STATION VIOLATIONS

In response to the Attorney General’s recent investigation of retail gas stations, and the multitude of violations uncovered by this crackdown, 12th District Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande has introduced legislation that would require the publication of these violations in the newspaper and on the Internet. 

“New Jersey citizens are at their breaking point with the high price of gas”, said Casagrande.  “We need to be able to make sure that they are not being ripped off at the pump.  The majority of gas station owners are honest small businessmen. This is one more incentive for gas station owners who may be tempted to cut corners to stay honest with their customers – or to risk losing them.”

Assemblywoman Casagrande’s legislation would establish an additional surcharge on violators of laws concerning the retail sale of motor vehicle fuels, including proper signage identifying price for cash and credit sales, only one price change per 24 hour period, and proper measurement for distribution of fuel.  “Currently there exists no provision for consumers to easily find out who has violated this law.  That is only half a deterrent,” said Assemblywoman Casagrande. 

“In order for New Jersey drivers to make informed decisions about where to get the best deals for gasoline, they need to know which stations have violated the law,” said Casagrande.  “Consumers need to know if a station has been cited for pouring less than a gallon and charging the full price.  Having the violator pay an additional surcharge to cover the cost of publishing is an efficient way to both deter the behavior and educate the consumer.”

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