There are more than 9,000 gas stations in Florida, but only 350 of them offer any type of help for someone who might not be able to pump their gas on their own.
Two lawmakers, however, are looking to change that — and are using Hillsborough County as a model.
State Rep. Mark Danish, D-Tampa, has joined forces with state Sen. Jeff Brandes, R-St. Petersburg, to introduce H.B. 185, which would require gas stations to post blue decals on pumps, providing information on how to “call for assistance.” Hillsborough County passed a similar ordinance in 2012, and some other counties have followed suit. However, just 4 percent of gas stations currently have such decals, according to lawmakers.
“This is a cost-effective option that will assist countless persons with disabilities across the state who struggle to refuel their gas,” Danish said in a release.
The bill already has received support from several organizations, including the Florida Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association, Paralyzed Veterans Association, Disabled American Veterans and AARP, according to a release.
The House version of the bill cleared its last hurdle Thursday, and is expected to head to the floor for a vote.
The law, if passed, won’t cost taxpayers any money. Instead, gas stations will have to pay for the stickers, estimated to cost less than $1 each. Gas stations will not be required, however, to provide any additional staffing to accommodate customers with special needs, however.
