1978 CJ7 rollover gas tank valve question

Okay... there is a valve of some sort that comes off the left side of the gas tank attached with rubber fuel lines. Apparently (according to Chiltons) it is some kind of a shut off value in case the jeep rolls over?? Anyway, there were gas lines attached to it that also ran forward to engine compartment into some kind of filter where vacuum lines ran in and out of. I'm sure it has something to do with emissions. Anyway, in the process of the rebuild I didn't reconnect the lines that go to the front. The valve (or whatever) is leaking gas from where those lines. Wondering if I can just stub the lines off at the tank and get rid of it entirely? Do I have to reconnect it??

Suggestions?

muffler shop needs it fixed before they try to weld a new muffler on in that location (something about not wanting to die in a ball of fire... whatever!)

1978 CJ7 rollover gas tank valve question