Source: NCDA&CS, 8/10/11

The N.C. Board of Agriculture today approved a proposal that simplifies regulations for the posting of fuel prices at gas stations. The rule change is aimed at making sure consumers know when a gas station charges different prices for cash and credit card purchases of fuel.

In rural areas of the state, there still are mechanical or analog fuel dispensers that can calculate only one price. Generally, these pumps display the cash price. The station may take credit card purchases inside the store, but the customer needs to know before buying fuel that there are two prices, said Jerry Butler, manager of the Measurement Section at the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Standards Division.

The rule change will require clearer labeling to draw customers’ attention to the difference in price for credit card payments, Butler said.

The change still must be approved by the state Rules Review Commissioner before it can take effect.
The board also welcomed a new member today. Mark Peters, president of Piedmont Carolina Nursery in Colfax, will represent the green industry on the board. Two other members have been reappointed to the board. They are Maurice Berry of Elizabeth City and Jeff Turner of Pink Hill. All three appointments are for six years.

The Board of Agriculture is a policy-making body that adopts regulations for many of the programs administered by the department. Its 10 members are appointed by the governor. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler serves as chairman of the board.