At New Jersey Gas Pumps, Life Returns to Normal

Life is returning to normal in post-Sandy New Jersey — at least at its gas stations.

Governor Chris Christie announced on Monday (November 12) the state would end gas rationing in 12 New Jersey counties, signaling the state’s major progress in restoring power and fuel delivery to areas devastated by the October 29 superstorm.

The rationing policy, which Christie ordered 10 days ago to reduce lines at stations and ease pressure on a damaged gas distribution network, was considered a success, garnering praise from city officials, gas station owners and even motorists.

“This would not have been possible without the great work and efforts of first responders, private businesses, state and local governmental leaders, and all citizens of New Jersey,” Christie said in a statement Monday.  “I thank them for that work and our ability to return to pre-Sandy fueling practices, another important step in returning to normalcy in the aftermath of the storm.”

The policy officially expired at 6 a.m. Tuesday.

Meanwhile, an identical rationing system continues in New York City and Long Island’s Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

Power had been restored for 99.8 percent of the 2.7 million who lost it after Sandy, Philly.com reported Monday.

Also on Monday, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said he’ll ask the federal government for about $30 billion to aid the state’s storm recovery. The request could be a tough sell, as the New York Times notes, because the Federal Emergency Management Agency has just $12 billion in its coffers, and other states are seeking a slice.  

To meet Cuomo’s full request would require action by Congress, which has been reluctant to dole out funds for much of anything.