A measure being considered by New Jersey lawmakers is intended to help avoid the kind of gas supply problems that occurred after Hurricane Sandy.

The bill would create a pilot program that would provide no-interest loans to install wiring for generators at gas stations near evacuation routes

The loans of up to $10,000 would have to be repaid within ten years.

The money for the program would come from the ‘9-1-1 System and Emergency Response Trust Fund.’

Assemblywoman Annette Quijano believes it would be a good investment.

 “It’s the safety of the New Jersey residents. You want to make sure that you have gas if you need to evacuate, and if you need to go to work while we have an emergency you need to be able to get to your job.”

Sal Risalvato, the executive director of the New Jersey Gasoline and Convenience Store Association, says getting fuel from their distributors was the big problem for most gas stations after Sandy.

He says more stations with generators doesn’t necessarily mean it would be easier for drivers to find gas during emergencies.

 “I’m not sure it will actually help mitigate any problems in a future storm. There are some small some small business owners that are will to take the rise. This will ease that a little bit and maybe prompt them to do it.”

Sponsors of the legislation say it’s just one of the steps they’re taking to help the state be better prepare for future emergencies.