DC changing law that requires some gas stations to provide a bicycle pump

As I'm sure everyone knows, DC's Retail Service Station Act of 1976 mandated that no gas station operating in DC after April 17, 1977 that wanted to convert from full-service to nonfull service could do so, nor could they stop providing maintenance or repair services or the retail sale of motor oil or other automotive products UNLESS they get an exemption from the Mayor which can only be granted if they agree to a small set of improvements. This is, of course, widely known, as it was in all the papers at the time. Anyway, not to keep boring you with stuff you already know, but one of the conditions for an exemption is

By improving customer conveniences including separate restroom facilities for men and women, a working air hose for automobile and bicycle tires, and water for windshield cleaning equipment.

Well, now the District is considering legislation to expand the types of changes that require an exemption to include stations that want to stop being gas stations all together.  Luckily I don't think this will reduce in any way the number of available gas station-provided, bicycle tire-applicable air hoses. 

[This is, however, an example of a small way in which we favor automobiles - by locking in land use exclusively for automobile service stations. By telling gas station owners that they can't close or reduce service unless there is another gas station providing the same service close by (one of several conditions) we are basically zoning land for the near exclusive use of high-service gas stations. We don't do this for cyclists by, for example, preventing bike shops from closing or offering less service. This is a very very small "subsidy" for driving - but a hidden subsidy nonetheless.]

Comments

[dynaryder]

A reminder I give the folks at my clinic;car/motorcycle tires tend to max out around 40psi,low pressure for bike tires. Some stations will limit the compressors to around that so people won't blow up their tires. Also,some air chucks won't properly compress the valve on a Presta(w/adapter). So it's always a good idea to have your own pump. There's also the site http://www.freeairpump.com/map/ which shows where you can find a public pump.

[contrarian]

What it is about DC and gas stations? Why is it considered an issue for the power of the state whether a gas station is full serve or not? I remember a few years ago when the landlord of Parker's Exxon on MacArthur Blvd was considering selling the land, and Mary Cheh introduced emergency legislation that essentially prohibited it. I just don't get it.

It's like a 1930's statist paradise.

PS: 40 PSI may not be optimal but it will get you home.

[Washcycle]

I heard That a council member is worried that their gas station of choice may be closing. That's why this law is being proposed.