These regulations follow on the heels of a recent federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rulemaking that tightened air quality regulations for fuel dispensing facilities nationwide. Oregon's tougher standards go beyond the federal rules to reduce benzene, a known carcinogen, by an estimated 28 tons per year and volatile organic compounds by an estimated 1,610 tons per year, the Environmental Quality Commission said.
The federal standard applies only to facilities that dispense 100,000 gallons per month, and does not address topping off at the pump.
In addition to estimated emission reductions from gas dispensing facilities, the state estimates greater toxic emission reductions and cost savings to consumers from banning "topping off" at gas stations statewide. Topping off during fueling can cause gasoline to spill and release benzene and other toxic air pollutants into the air, which is a health concern for workers and drivers alike.
"Topping off the tank helps no one, resulting in a high level of benzene exposure for anyone in the immediate area, and increased costs to consumers," said Environmental Quality Commission chair Bill Blosser. "It is clear that through a simple change in procedure at Oregon gas stations we can better protect public health and the environment."
Oregon is one of only two states (the other being New Jersey) that does not allow self-service refueling at retail outlets.
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