St. Paul, MN (NNCNOW.com) --- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and John Thune (R-SD) are trying to pass the Reliable Home Heating Act. This act aims to better prepare for propane and heating fuel shortages and regional supply disruptions.

The legislation would allow governors more self-sufficiency as to when they can declare emergencies. They would not need the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to declare that a disaster exists beyond the existing 30-day declarations.

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The governor of a state would be able to extend the state of emergency for two additional 30-day periods, for a total of 90 days without FMCSA action.

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) would also have to provide early warnings to governors if the inventory of residential heating fuel (propane, natural gas and home heating oil) falls below the most recent five-year average for more than three consecutive weeks.

Ramona Marozas