CHEYENNE – Due to potential propane shortages, Governor Mark Gordon has signed an executive order putting in place temporary, emergency rules for the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) that allows drivers to make extra propane deliveries to heat homes and businesses for 20 days.

“I didn’t sign this order lightly. I put these emergency rules in place in recognition of how harmful it would be to not be able to heat your home,” Gordon said. “I have also asked WYDOT to meet with the trucking industry to find ways to make sure this order is rarely needed again in the future.”

Frigid temperatures across the state and region have caused an increase in the demand for propane, which many people use to heat their homes. The emergency rule suspends regulations on driving hours to allow drivers to meet the increased demand but still says drivers cannot be on the road when they are fatigued. The propane delivery companies are specifically asked to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of both the public and drivers.

This order is specific to drivers bringing propane to Wyoming or doing in-state deliveries. The order also puts Wyoming in line with other surrounding states, which have implemented similar executive orders. The executive order is in effect until the emergency is over or March 31, 2019 at midnight.