Federal Emergency Declaration Eases Trucking Restrictions Amid Fuel Shortages in Central U.S.
TOPEKA — In response to fuel shortages affecting Kansas, Iowa, and Nebraska, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association has issued an emergency declaration allowing commercial truck drivers to extend their working hours. This comes as fuel supply disruptions have led to long lines at gas stations and delivery delays throughout the region.
The declaration builds on an earlier state of disaster proclamation by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, which expired on May 13. Linda Berry, spokesperson for the Kansas Corporation Commission, noted that the ongoing fuel scarcity is primarily attributed to planned maintenance in pipelines and refineries, coupled with heightened demand from farmers during the planting season.
Under the emergency order, drivers involved in the fuel delivery system can temporarily work longer hours to expedite fuel distribution. The measure aims to mitigate the impact of the shortages on agriculture and the national food supply, as well as address potential risks to public safety and welfare.
While the disruptions have predominantly affected diesel fuel supplies, they have not yet had a significant impact on consumer access to gasoline. The agency emphasizes that these short-term adjustments are crucial to restoring normal fuel availability in the affected states.
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