KCC order grants temporary waiver to assist propane deliveries

TOPEKA - Following the State of Disaster Declaration issued yesterday by Governor Laura Kelly related to propane delivery delays, the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) voted this morning to temporarily waive federal regulations limiting the hours of service for motor carriers operating in the state who are providing direct assistance in the delivery efforts. Extending driving hours will help alleviate supply disruptions and long lines at fuel terminals that could jeopardize propane delivery to Kansas residents.

The KCC is the agency that regulates motor carriers operating in the State. Kansas statute K.S.A 77-536(a) gives State agencies the authority to act when there is immediate danger to public health, safety or welfare requiring immediate state action.

"Due to propane supply issues within Kansas and surrounding states, our Staff received a request from industry requesting relief from certain hours of service regulations, said KCC Transportation Director Mike Hoeme. "We thank the Governor for acting quickly to issue an emergency declaration and KCC Commissioners for issuing the temporary waiver. The state recognizes need for these propane deliveries, and we believe all involved have acted swiftly and efficiently to support motor carriers in our region."

Federal motor carrier hours of service regulations 49 CFR 395.3 and 395.5 will be waived through December 31 to protect motor carriers providing direct assistance during the state of emergency. All other applicable state and federal regulations will remain in effect during the waiver period.