Iowans rely on their vehicles to get to work, pick up groceries, drive their kids to school and more. This includes those living with disabilities, who want to live independently and with dignity. That is why the Senate voted to strengthen the state law for assistance with fuel pumps at Iowa gas stations.
People with disabilities can find it difficult or impossible to gas up their vehicles if they are unable to use the controls, hose or nozzle of a fuel pump. They may not be able to get their gas at self-service stations, and may be forced to use full-service stations, where fuel is more expensive.
The federal Americans with Disabilities Act, authored by Iowa’s very own U.S. Senator Tom Harkin, gave civil rights protections to people with disabilities. It required gas stations to provide equal access for their customers with disabilities by
• Providing refueling assistance upon the request of an individual with a disability.
• Letting customers know that those with disabilities can obtain refueling assistance by signaling an employee.
• Providing refueling assistance without any charge beyond the self-serve price, if the customer wants only fuel.
To ensure access to fuel for all Iowans, the Senate approved Senate File 2284. This bill would encourage stations to add a large call button and signage. The call button would be more accessible to the driver and could be operated with a closed fist. The signage would let disabled drivers know when there are more than two workers on duty so that someone is available to pump their gas.
The bill mandates these changes if a station is installing new pumps or retrofitting their pumps. Otherwise, it is only encouraged. Either way, small businesses can receive a $500 tax credit for installing this new equipment, which will benefit those with disabilities, the elderly and veterans among others.