Problem: Two lawmakers from New Jersey have both introduced bills to make retail membership clubs sell gasoline to the public in New Jersey. This past summer Costco discontinued selling their gasoline to the New Jersey public and now restricts purchases to club members just like it does in other states. Sen. Gopal states that he believes "...gas is a public commodity, just like food and energy," and "I don't believe there should be membership costs to get things generally in the public good." Based on this statement, since food is a public commodity should Costco allow individuals to purchase food at Costco without a membership? Being able to shop at Costco without a membership, even if it is just for gas or food, defeats the purpose of having a club type membership. If passed, could this be the beginning of the end of club membership stores like Costco in NJ?
What are your thoughts on this matter?