Declaration allows longer hours for heating fuel drivers
Congresswoman Chellie Pingree announced today that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is waiving hours-of-service limitations for the delivery of propane and other heating fuel as prolonged arctic cold has increased demand. The federal declaration extends Maine’s state of emergency, originally set to expire on February 8, until March 1.
“With Maine being racked by such cold weather week after week, we need to do whatever we can to ensure that people get the fuel they need to heat their homes. The high demand, rising prices and current propane shortage has made it especially critical for drivers to have the ability to keep working when a supply comes in,” said Pingree. “I’m glad the federal government is helping clear the way so that it can continue to happen. Even a short time in this weather without heat could put people in an unsafe situation.”
As a period of arctic cold has increased demand for heat, Maine and much of New England is also experiencing a shortage in propane delivery.
The Governor originally issued a limited state emergency proclamation on December 13, 2013, and it has been extended twicesince then. It was set to expire this Saturday, February 8. The declaration covers both home delivery and bulk transportation.
