Prohibits membership club from limiting sale of motor fuel to members of club.
If enacted, A2217 would directly impact the operations of retail, wholesale, and merchandise clubs that sell gasoline, mandating that they serve all consumers, not just members. The bill stipulates civil penalties for violators, which range from $1,000 for first offenses to $10,000 for subsequent violations. This regulatory change is presented as a means to balance the needs of these clubs with the broader public interest, reinforcing the notion that accessibility to gasoline should not be restricted to a select few.
Assembly Bill A2217 aims to ensure greater accessibility to motor fuel by prohibiting membership clubs from limiting the sale of gasoline exclusively to their members. The bill acknowledges the significant dependence of New Jersey residents on gasoline, particularly due to long commutes, and aims to enhance the availability of gasoline stations across various urban, suburban, and rural areas. By preventing exclusive sales to club members, the bill seeks to promote convenience for all consumers, including visitors, thereby supporting the tourism industry.
While the bill promotes public welfare by enhancing access to fuel, it may face opposition from membership clubs that could see this as a restriction on their business model. Critics may argue that allowing all consumers to purchase fuel would undermine the exclusivity that drives membership sales, impacting the financial viability of these clubs. Therefore, discussions surrounding the bill may center on the balance between public convenience and commercial interests.