Mock announcement to end self-serve ban draws criticism from residents and users
Trenton, NJ – A social media post from New Jersey’s official government account announcing the end of the state’s self-service gas ban quickly drew backlash Wednesday, after many users reacted before realizing it was an April Fools’ Day joke.
Update: residents upset after state-funded account used for non-official business.
New Jersey is the only state in America that bans the public from pumping their own gas. It has been a source of debate for New Jersey residents long before the current governor showed up on its shores.
The post, shared from the @NJGov account associated with Governor Mikie Sherrill’s administration, claimed the state would immediately allow drivers to pump their own gas starting April 1. The message encouraged residents to “familiarize themselves with gas pumps,” a shift in a state that has long prohibited self-service fueling.
The announcement, however, was not real—and the reaction was immediate. While some users recognized the joke, others criticized the tone and timing, arguing the message created confusion or touched on a policy issue many take seriously.
Online reactions range from humor to frustration
Key Points
- NJGov account posted April Fools’ joke about ending gas pump ban
- Some users found it humorous, others criticized it as misleading or tone-deaf
- New Jersey remains one of the only states prohibiting self-service gas
Social media responses ranged widely. “Nice April Fool’s joke, wish they would lift the ban partially,” one user wrote.
Another added, “It’s not a good joke if all of your constituents are excited about it and then it’s just a big joke to you.”
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Others questioned why an official government account would post satire at all. “I can’t believe an official state account is joking about this kind of thing. What a waste of time,” another user commented.
Some responses were more lighthearted, with users joking about New Jersey drivers learning to pump gas for the first time or defending the state’s long-standing full-service model.
Blocked pumps
Another commenter noted the vast amount of blocked pumps at every gas station in New Jersey because the companies cannot afford to pay the staff to man them.
Long-standing policy remains unchanged
New Jersey remains one of the only states in the country where drivers are not allowed to pump their own gas, a policy that has been debated but remains in place.
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The April Fools’ post underscores how even lighthearted messaging from official accounts can generate strong reactions, particularly when it involves longstanding laws or widely discussed policy issues.
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