Peter C. Harvey, Attorney General

Division of Consumer Affairs
Reni Erdos, Director

For Immediate Release:
March 1, 2004

For Further Information Contact:
Genene Morris, Jeff Lamm
973-504-6327

NEWARK - Governor James E. McGreevey has proclaimed March 1-7 Weights and Measures Week in New Jersey.

"Starting from colonial days, the importance of the control of weighing and measuring to preserve equity in the marketplace has been essential," Governor McGreevey said. "This week recognizes the indispensable work of the dedicated men and women of the New Jersey Office of Weights and Measures in enforcing the laws governing the accuracy and use of weighing and measuring devices and the attentive preservation of standards."

Established by Governor Woodrow Wilson in 1911, the New Jersey Office of Weights and Measures is celebrating its 93rd anniversary. Part of the Division of Consumer Affairs, the office, among other things, oversees the testing of pumps at gas stations, dryers at laundromats and price scanners in stores. In addition, its inspectors examine and approve scales used to weigh produce at supermarkets; jockeys at racetracks; lottery balls; tractor-trailer trucks; and even bungee jumpers. The office also runs the state-of-the art Metrology Lab, where staff members test radar and laser guns utilized by law enforcement officers to detect speeding vehicles and check equipment, such as weight kits and "test cans," that are used to certify any weight or measure.

"The State Office of Weights and Measures plays an important role in the protection of New Jersey consumers," Attorney General Peter C. Harvey said. "Because of the hard work carried out each and every day by these devoted professionals, New Jersey consumers can have confidence when shopping in the marketplace."

"Most of us take for granted that the scales at the supermarkets are accurate; that the scanners at department stores are ringing up sale prices properly; and that when pumps at gas stations charge us for a full gallon of gas that we have, indeed, received a full gallon of gas." Director Erdos said. "Thankfully, the inspectors at the State, county and municipal offices of weights and measure don’t take these things for granted. The work they do ensures that we get what we pay for."

As part of Weights and Measures Week, New Jersey Office of Weights and Measures Superintendent Louis E. Greenleaf and his staff will host an Open House on Tuesday, March 2nd, from 10:00 AM until noon at 1261 Routes 1 & 9 South in Avenel. During the Open House, Director Erdos will present Governor McGreevey’s proclamation to the New Jersey Weights and Measures Association.

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