CARSON CITY --  Yesterday afternoon, Governor Brian Sandoval, declared a state of emergency due to extreme winter conditions in Nevada.

Prolonged periods of freezing temperatures have increased the demand for propane in the State of Nevada.

This declaration addresses the current demand for propane that exceeds the capability of private sector efforts. It suspends Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation 49 CFR 395.3 and Nevada Administrative Code (N.A.C.) 706.247 that mandate the number of hours an operator can drive in a given shift.

This state of emergency is in effect for fifteen (15) days for any motor carrier or driver operating a commercial motor vehicle that supplies propane in response to this emergency.

Declaring a state of emergency ensures resources from the local, state and federal level are available to assist as needed during this emergency.

“The declaration is a precautionary measure to ensure propane truck operators can support the needs of Nevada citizens during this prolonged cold weather pattern,” Sandoval said.

The Governor, under his constitutional and statutory authority, can declare a state of emergency when events occur that threaten the health and safety of Nevada citizens.