HELENA- Governor Steve Bullock has declared a state of energy emergency.
The declaration follows a severe storm that dumped a record amount of snow on parts of the state and left sub-zero temperatures in its wake.
The order suspends, temporarily, hours-of-service regulations for drivers who deliver home heating fuels. Normally commercial drivers are only allowed a maximum of 11 hours of driving during a 14-hour on-duty period
According to the order from the Governor’s Office, the declaration will make it easier for carriers to supply propane, heating oil and diesel fuel to communities.
The Governor’s order does require drivers to operate commercial vehicles in a safe manner and that they follow the hours-of-service if a driver needs immediate rest.
You can find the details of the state’s hours-of-service requirements on the Montana Department of Transportation website.
Click here to read the proclamation from Gov. Bullock. (pdf)
