HARTFORD – The Connecticut Legislature has okayed a proposal that removes the requirement for gas stations to have vapor recovery equipment, the Waterbury Republican American reports. The bill is with the governor for his signature.

Upon enactment, retailers will be able to remove the Stage II vapor recovery systems attached to their gasoline pumps. With most vehicles manufactured after 2000 having their own systems to keep gasoline vapors from escaping, the pump systems are no longer needed. 

Bob Duff, chairman of the state Senate Energy and Technology Committee, said the bill “is a win-win for consumers, businesses and the environment.” House Bill 6534, An Act Concerning Gasoline Vapor Recovery Systems, passed the Senate this week after being approved by the House. Both approved the bill unanimously.

“Once we had more than 50% of the vehicles built with onboard vapor controls, the onboard system actually rendered the (Stage II) system useless,” said Michael Fox, executive director of the Gasoline and Automotive Service Dealers of America Inc. “So keeping Stage II is actually polluting, because one system counteracted the other.”

Fox pointed out that getting rid of the Stage II equipment will save money because the cost for removing the system is less than mandatory yearly maintenance. For example, stations with the system in place should save between $3,000 and $5,000, the cost of yearly tests.

Retailers also should see savings when replacing hoses and nozzles. “A Stage II hose costs anywhere from $175 to $190; a regular hose is $80,” said Fox. “A Stage II nozzle is $300, while a regular nozzle is $85 to $90.”

Under the bill, gas stations must make all Stage II systems inoperable by sealing above and below ground pipes. Below ground vapor recovery equipment can be left alone once the sealing is complete.