Would Update State’s Archaic Credit Card-Only Laws
TRENTON – Legislation Senators Bob Gordon and Jim Beach sponsored to update New Jersey’s antiquated gasoline credit card laws to allow consumers to redeem points earned from debit or rewards-card purchases made elsewhere for reduced prices at the gas pump was today released by a Senate committee.
Under current law, at-the-pump savings can only be realized through a gas purchase made with a credit card marked for that purpose. The Gordon/Beach bill (S-2927) would allow points earned by consumers through debit or rewards card purchases elsewhere – such as at supermarkets or other retailers – to translate into motor fuel rebates.
“Consumers want flexibility, and they want the ability to enjoy the same benefits as consumers in other states,” said Gordon (D-Bergen). “Current law has our customers chained to laws that haven’t been updated in decades, and is putting New Jersey consumers at a disadvantage.”
“Our law hasn’t been updated since the days of carbon paper and MasterCharge,” said Beach (D-Camden). “Consumers now have various ways to earn rebates at the gas pump, but are blocked by 1960’s era laws. This update is long overdue.”
The bill was released 5-0 by the Senate Commerce Committee, and now is poised for a vote in the full Senate.