Michigan Gov. Declares Emergency Over Propane Shortage

LANSING (WWJ/AP) - Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has declared an emergency because of a temporary shortage of heating oil and propane caused by increased demand in recent subzero weather.

Snyder said Friday the shortage also is due to heavy snowfall that delayed delivery of heating oil and propane.

The governor's executive order suspends regulations to allow fuel trucks to be on the road more hours and more days in a row to deliver heating oil and propane, in an effort to better reach those in need.

Capt. Chris Kelenske, Deputy Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security in Michigan, says regional propane inventories are 30 percent below average.

"People are using more because they have to heat their homes, and it's taking longer for the drivers to get there," Kelenske told WWJ Newsradio 950. "The lines are longer where they get the propane, and that makes it harder for them because they're sitting in lines waiting to get their trucks filled up, they can't deliver because they time out in their hours of service.

Snyder's order is effective immediately and will stay intact until Jan. 31 or until it's rescinded, whichever occurs first.

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