Senator Gallivan Co-Sponsors Bill Allowing Hands-Free Gas Pumps

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan, (R-C, Elma) is co-sponsoring legislation (S.7418) that would make it possible for self-service gas stations to provide hands-free gas dispensing by installing hold open clips on their gasoline and diesel fuel pumps. 

The bill would do away with the outdated regulation, which has been on the books for several decades. 

“New technology and updated safety features on gas pumps makes the restriction on hold-open clips unnecessary,” Senator Gallivan said.  “Given the harsh winter weather New Yorkers face, allowing for hands-free gas pumps is safer and more convenient for drivers.”     

New York's Fire Code allowed for some but not all pumps at gas stations to be equipped with hold open latches. However, the way the regulation is written is confusing and outdated considering new technology and updated safety features at pumps.

As of June 2025, 49 of 50 states in the nation allow for the use of these hold clips. Recently, Massachusetts lifted its last restrictions, which has left New York as the only state with a restrictive ban.

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