Governor Mike Pence has declared an energy emergency in Indiana as the state faces a severe propane shortage.
The state will provide more support for low-income Hoosiers facing increased energy prices:
High demand, extreme winter weather and transportation issues have combined to create a severe propane shortage in Indiana. Governor Pence says the series of steps the state is taking to address the shortage include extending an earlier proclamation easing restrictions on hours of service for propane transporters until March. Indiana will also expedite permit applications and waive fees on oversize and overweight loads carrying propane while suspending load limitations for propane suppliers.
Lieutenant Governor Sue Ellspermann says the state is also putting more dollars into the Low Income Housing Energy Assistance Program. LIHEAP provides money for energy costs to Hoosiers below a certain income level – around $35,000 for a family of four.
Ellspermann says farmers should check their propane supplies and encourages them to return any excess reserves to local suppliers. For Indiana Public Broadcasting, I’m Brandon Smith.
