Nj state law. You can’t pump your own gas.”
In the “olden days” no one pumped their own gas - laws had nothing to do with it and there wasn’t an extra per gallon charge for a long time. They also checked your oil, put air in your tires and washed your windows. Great place for high school and college kids to work. Owners were on a first name basis, sponsored ball teams, towed your car out of the snow and really gave great service. Women particularly loved the service.
That’s back when they had gas stations, not mini marts with gas pumps. If you broke down, they could help you.