RELIABLE SUPPLY NETWORK
INDUSTRY LEADING SOLUTIONS
You deserve a partner who understands the pressures you face. That’s why CHS gives you easy access to expert account managers, insightful market intelligence and proven price risk tools. You have industry-leading propane control room technology, plus equipment purchasing power and technical expertise from major manufacturers. And a safety commitment second to none. With CHS, you get propane solutions to drive your profitability.
Visit CHSpropaneinsights.com, contact Donna Smith at donna.smith@chsinc.com or call 651-355-8409 to start planning your supply needs today.
MATT SOLAK
NEW EXCITEMENT WITH SOME OLD CHALLENGES
While the last few winters haven’t been what we have wanted, it was nice to have a bit more of a normal winter this year. This summer will also be busy. As you read this, a team from the PPGA will be arriving in DC for the annual NPGA Propane Days. With the return of the Trump Administration, our industry has a great opportunity to advance opportunities for the propane industry.
Shortly after we return, we will have our Summer Conference in Santa Rosa, CA. The Summer Conference is always a great time to relax from the winter before we get busy in the fall. I hope to see everyone there, learn more about the Summer Conference on pages 5-11.
Some members have asked for an update on I-2066 in Washington State. We continue to monitor but remain in a bit of a holding pattern as the appeals process continues. After significant delay Judge Widlan’s finally issued her order holding I-2066 unconstitutional on Friday, May 9th. Per the court rules, notice of appeal within must be filed within 30 days of entering the final order. Once the notice of appeal is filed, the court rules give 15 days to file and serve a statement of grounds for direct review by the supreme court.
A superior court decision holding a law unconstitutional is one of the express cases in which the supreme court has authority to directly review the decision without going through the intermediate courts of appeal. After filing the statement of grounds, the respondents (climate groups) have 14 days to file a response. While no court rule exists to limit the time the supreme court may take to decide whether to take the case on direct review, the coalition remains confident that if the court accepts review, we can get a hearing on the fall calendar.
The coalition remains in regular and working contact with our partners at the Attorney General’s office and we are working together to submit the notice to appeal within the required deadline. I will continue to keep you posted.
I want to thank you all for your involvement and commitment to our industry. Please reach out with any feedback or thoughts.
Summer Conference Summer Conference
August 13-15
Flamingo Resort & Spa
Santa Rosa, California
Summer Conference Summer Conference
Join us August 13-15 at Flamingo Resort & Spa as the Pacific and Western Propane Gas Associations come together for the PPGA & WPGA Summer Conference. This event provides the opportunity to make new business contacts and connect with colleagues, old and new, and learn from experts about those topics that are most important to our propane industry. Bring family and enjoy your stay in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country.
LOCATION AND HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS
Flamingo Resort & Spa 2777 4th St. | Santa Rosa, CA 95405
Flamingo Resort & Spa is offering special rates of $199 (Tue.-Fri.) and $299 (Fri.-Sat.) for conference guests. This rate is available until July 13, 2025 or until sold out, whichever occurs first. We recommend reserving early to help ensure availability. Applicable taxes and $35 daily resort fee will be applied to rates.
Visit the conference page at www.pacificpga.com to access our booking link or call 707-545-8530 and reference group name 2025 PPGA & WPGA Summer Conference.
GOLF REGISTRATION
*Advance registration required by July 16. To register, visit the conference page at pacificpga.org or scan the QR code. Per Golfer ........................................................ $125
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
The registration fee includes education and evening events. Separate registration is required for golf outing. To register, visit the conference page at pacificpga.org or scan the QR code.
REGISTRATION FEES
Early registration ends July 16, 2025. After July 16, an additional $25 will be added to all registration fees.
Flamingo Resort & Spa
Santa Rosa, California
Sponsor Opportunities
The Pacific Propane Gas Association and Western Propane Gas Association are coming together to host the PPGA & WPGA Summer Conference to be held August 13-15 at Flamingo Resort & Spa in Santa Rosa, California. Together, we are asking for your help to sponsor this special event by committing to one of the opportunities below. Your continued support is appreciated and vital in making this a successful event.
To participate, please register online at www.pacificpga.org or scan the QR code. For assistance, contact Lauren Concannon at 844.585.4940 or lauren@kdafirm.com. The deadline to be included in printed items is July 15.
Half Page Ad in Virtual Program (deadline July
Featured Newsletter Article for 2025 Fall Issue of Propane Post P (500 words max, deadline Aug 25)
*Signage with your company’s name or logo will be posted at these events.
Additional Sponsorships
Wednesday Golf Outing Beverage Cart Sponsor
Includes signage on the beverage cart and the opportunity to provide donated promotional products (i.e. tees, balls, sunscreen, etc.) Wednesday Welcome Reception Live Entertainment $550 Includes company logo in program, special recognition at the event and shout-outs from the band
Welcome Reception Drink Ticket Sponsor ......................................................................................................................... $800
Includes company logo on drink tickets and special recognition at event
Summer Conference Summer Conference
Schedule of Events
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13
8:00am – 1:00pm
Golf Outing (18 holes)
Join us at Bennett Valley Golf Course, 3330 Yulupa Ave., Santa Rosa, CA 95405. Located at the base of Bennett Peak, where Matanzas Creek meanders throughout the tree-lined course. Native oak redwood and pine trees enhance the course’s beauty and create a classic, natural setting. Take this opportunity to enjoy with your employees, customers and fellow industry partners. Arrive at 8:00am for registration with a shotgun start at 8:30am. Registration includes 18 holes of golf with cart, practice balls, drink ticket and lunch. Transportation on your own. *Advance registration required by July 16.
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Welcome Reception & Registration
Kick off the conference at this outdoor social networking event and enjoy light appetizers, drinks and live entertainment.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 14
7:00am – 7:30am
Breakfast & Registration
7:30am – 7:45am
National Propane Gas Association Update Mike Hopsicker, NPGA Chair
7:45am – 8:00am
Propane Education & Research Council Update Tucker Perkins, President & CEO, PERC
8:00am – 8:45am
PEP Transition Discussion
Bridget Kidd, Chief Operating Officer, PERC
Discover how the PERC Education Program (PEP) delivers function-based, modular, and customizable training for employees. We will share how this training system focuses on essential job-specific skills to ensure employees learn what truly matters.
8:45am – 9:00am Break & Visit Sponsor Display Tables
9:00am – 10:00am
Markets and Mandates – How to Protect Your Business Mik Skvarla, Partner, CA Lobby
States across the West have adopted California-like regulations regarding emissions markets or low carbon fuels standards affecting the propane industry, but without pausing their efforts to ban or otherwise restrict the use of gas-powered appliances. Learn how to take advantage of market-based mechanisms that utilize credit pricing to protect your business line, take advantage of low carbon fuel programs, and better understand how to comply while halting aggressive anti-gas mandates.
10:00am – 10:15am
Break & Visit Sponsor Display Tables
Schedule of Events
10:15am – 11:45am
PPGA Board & Membership Meeting
Learn from local and national experts about those topics that are most important to the propane industry.
11:45am – 1:00pm
Break/Afternoon Free Time
1:00pm – 4:00pm
WPGA Board Meeting
Meeting to cover committee updates, policy discussions and strategic planning.
6:00pm-9:00pm Dinner
Join us at Paradise Ridge Winery located at 4545 Thomas Lake Harris Dr., Santa Rosa, CA 95403. Enjoy this special event of networking, award-winning wine and dinner while taking in the breathtaking Sonoma Country views. We will hear briefly from PPGA and WPGA leadership, announce winners from our Golf Outing and 50/50 Scholarship Program Fundraiser and thank our conference sponsors. Transportation on your own.
August 13-15
Flamingo Resort & Spa
Santa Rosa, California
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15
7:30am – 8:00am
Breakfast & Registration
8:00am – 8:45am
Autogas and Autogas for Industry Fleets Market Opportunities and Updates
Joel Stutheit, Autogas Business Development Mgr, PERC
Explore the latest trends and opportunities in the autogas market. Joel Stutheit, Autogas Business Development Manager, will provide key insights on market growth, emerging technologies, and how businesses and the propane industry can benefit from propane-powered fleet solutions.
8:45am – 9:15am
Planning a Bulk Plant Installation
Adam Schultz, Vice Pres. Operations, LPG Specialties, LLC
Planning a Bulk Plant Installation? Learn the basics of building a storage plant, to ensure safe and effective operations for years to come. We will cover the basics in tank sets, pump and compressor installs and maintenance, vaporizer and regulator installs and maintenance, remote emergency shut down systems and proper piping methods for the industry.
9:15am – 9:30am
Break & Visit Sponsor Display Tables
9:30am – 10:15am
Exploring Market Trends in Renewable Fuels and the Role of Renewable Propane
Tucker Perkins, President & CEO, PERC
Join us for an insightful session where we explore the latest market trends in renewable fuels development. Get updated on how producers and refiners are targeting these markets and learn about the growing role of renewable propane within the global renewable fuels landscape. We will examine what makes renewable propane an attractive option, as well as the challenges that may limit its adoption. Finally, we’ll discuss strategies for encouraging forwardthinking approaches to renewable propane. This session will provide valuable insights for anyone looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving renewable fuels market.
Summer Conference Summer Conference
Experience Sonoma County
Sonoma County boasts over 425 wineries, inviting you to immerse yourself in the rich culture of wine country. Beyond the vineyards, you’ll find world-renowned culinary destinations, charming boutiques, artisan fairs, and breathtaking natural beauty intertwined with rich history. For ideas and more information, visit flamingoresort.com/area-activities/
As a guest of the resort, indulge in the exclusive Flamingo Flights program, offering complimentary tastings at 8+ local wineries. For more information, visit flamingoresort.com/area-activities/.
August 13-15
Flamingo Resort & Spa
Santa Rosa, California
Scholarship Fundraiser
PPGA DICK START SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FUNDRAISER
The PPGA Board of Directors is organizing a 50/50 raffle to raise funds for the PPGA Dick Start Scholarship Program which raises money for graduating seniors who have a parent employed by a PPGA member and are or plan to attend any community college, university, vocational or technical school. Please plan now to help us raise money for these scholarships by purchasing 50/50 raffle tickets at the conference. The winner will be announced during dinner on Thursday evening.
2025 PPGA REBATES AVAILABLE
For more information and applications, visit pacificpga.org and click on Rebates.
The PPGA has rebate funds available for you and your propane customers to take advantage of in 2025. Rebates include:
• Propane Safe Appliance Installation (Residential) Rebate
• On Road Propane Vehicle Rebate
• Regulator Rebate
• Hawaii Safe Appliance Installation (Commercial) Rebate
• Duty to Warn Rebate
• DOT Compliance Education Rebate
Rebates are available until December 31 or while funds are available.
JENNY DRESLER
OREGON LEGISLATURE ADRIFT WITH LACK OF CLEAR PRIORITIES
Last month marked the mid-point of the Oregon legislative session. This session is best characterized as aimless. Policy priorities have not yet been identified, and democratic leaders have struggled to narrow the scope of bills under consideration this session. Legislators claim their focus is on a transportation package (billions of dollars of need), but that also seems nebulous as we near the final six weeks of session. Without the sideboards of take-home priorities, a few themes have emerged:
• Electricity affordability and ratepayer protections
• Wildfire suppression costs
• Labor union / trial lawyer requests (lots of new private rights of action across the spectrum)
Oregon’s budget is also lean this year. The next revenue forecast is May 14th, which will inform the budget prior to sine die on June 29. Legislators will likely default to “baseline” or continuing service level funding in anticipation of federal funding cuts later this session. In addition to funding basic services, legislators have submitted nearly $2 billion in additional funding requests.
As we head into the final weeks of session, we expect tensions to rise as the final budgets and policies are identified and passed. We are also hearing that Oregon is likely to return to special session this fall to address any forthcoming federal cuts to K-12, Medicaid, etc.
2025 POLICY ISSUES
Legislators did not focus much on issues impacting PPGA this year except for new PRAs against fossil fuel companies or climate superfund legislation. That said, Public Affairs Counsel continues to elevate the conversation around needing to fix the Climate Protection Program and hopes to gain traction for a legislative solution in the near-term. We are working with a small coalition of industry lobbyists towards a solution.
EV BUS MANDATE (HB 2945)
Local NGO, Climate Solutions, is championing passage of HB 2945, which would phase in an EV purchase mandate for school buses. During the public hearing in April, the proponents introduced an amendment to provide $20 million towards replacement of fossil fuel powered buses. Proponents have not indicated willingness to amend their bill to
mirror the EPA Clean School Bus program, but likely don’t have a path in a session that is as financially constrained as this one. The bill has had a hearing but has not been posted for a work session (which would indicate that appropriators would at least be asked to consider funding. At this point, this bill seems unlikely to move forward. PPGA testimony is linked here.
MARIJUANA ACCOMMODATION IN THE WORKPLACE (SB 176)
Provisions in the bill that would have required employers to accommodate medical marijuana use in violation of federal law were stripped out of the bill. PPGA joined coalition testimony against those provisions.
FEDERAL TAX RECONNECT (HB 2092)
HB 2092 would change Oregon’s connection to federal taxable income from its current automatic connection to one that is frozen to December 31, 2024. As Oregon’s closely aligns its
tax system with federal income taxes, this change would make Oregon’s tax system more complicated, increase government spending needed for its administration, and further erode the state’s tax competitiveness in the event we end up with significant deviations from federal tax code forcing Oregon taxpayers to keep separate books. This bill has not passed out of Senate Finance & Revenue yet, but seems slated to move forward with the “freeze.”
BALLOT REFERRAL FOR RIGHT TO A CLEAN ENVIRONMENT (SJR 28)
SJR 28 would put a measure on the ballot creating a “right to a safe, healthy, and clean environment,” setting up the state for immense litigation if this measure were to be referred and passed. Activists are working to pass similar laws, aka green amendments, across the United States, setting up these states for climate litigation. The Senate Rules Committee held a hearing on this proposed ballot referral but it doesn’t seem to have the momentum to pass this year.
JIM HEDRICK
WASHINGTON LAWMAKERS END TURBULENT 2025
SESSION WITH NEW TAXES, BUDGET DEAL, AND TRAGEDY
The 2025 Washington State legislative session has been one of the most tumultuous and emotionally charged sessions in recent memory, marked by significant political tension, major fiscal challenges, and the deaths of two beloved legislators. From the opening days, the atmosphere was fraught with division. Deep ideological splits over how to address the state’s financial crisis created a highly charged environment where lawmakers frequently clashed not only along party lines but also within their own caucuses.
The session was further shaken by the death of former House Speaker Frank Chopp (D-Seattle). A towering figure in state politics for decades, Chopp’s passing was mourned across party lines, with tributes highlighting his enduring legacy on affordable housing and social justice issues. Adding to the heavy mood, Senator Bill Ramos (D-Issaquah) passed away while in office a mere two weeks from the end of session. Other major family tragedies were Rep. Tom Dent’s (R Moses Lakes) son was shot in a police action and the Saturday before adjournment, the wife of Sen. Chris Gildon (R-Puyallup) very unexpectedly passed away.
OPERATING BUDGET
The most pressing issue was the staggering $16 billion budget deficit. The reality of the shortfall quickly consumed legislative discussions, setting the tone for the months ahead. Proposed cuts sparked widespread protests and added to the strain inside the building. In response, a range of revenue ideas were volleyed around the Capitol, from new taxes on capital gains to expanded sales tax bases and proposals for bond measures.
The final 2025-27 operating budget, Senate Bill 5167, appropriates $77.87 billion an 8.2% increase or nearly $6 billion more thank the 2023-25 budget. This 1,366 page document moved through the legislature from conference committee report to final passage in less than 30 hours. This budget passed the House on a 52 to 45 vote having 6 House Democrats cross-over with all 39 House Republicans to oppose the bill. The state Senate passed the budget on a more comfortable 28 to 19 vote with moderate Democrat in a special election swing district race this fall, Sen. Deborah Krishnadasan (D-Gig Harbor), the lone Democrat to oppose the bill.
While the budget assumes significant savings, it does not reduce net spending. In fact, it increases spending by $1.039 billion above the maintenance level; the cost to continue current services after adjusting for caseload and inflation. The budget largely shifts funding from prior commitments to new priorities, including state and nonstate employee collective bargaining agreements. The budget does not assume furloughs of state employees and previous versions did. The proposed conference report leaves a projected ending balance for the 2025-27 biennium of $225 million and $2.3 billion in total reserves, including $2.1 billion in the Budget Stabilization Account or Rainy Day Fund. Adequate budget reserves was an issue Governor Ferguson highlighted that he needed to see in a final budget. 1 The final $77.8 billion operating budget includes nearly $6 billion in cuts and close to $9 billion in new revenue over the four-year outlook — significantly less revenue than legislative
Democrats had initially sought. Governor Ferguson previously rejected each version of the revenue plan, citing concerns that the proposals were “too risky.”
The final budget also steers clear of furloughs for state employees, an option both Governor Ferguson and Senate Democrats had floated earlier in the session. It remains unclear whether Governor Ferguson will support the budget in full or issue partial vetoes. His decision will be closely watched, as it could either cement cooperation with the legislative majority or trigger a new round of political negotiations in a special session.
REVENUE
The revenue package passed by the legislature is expected to generate $9.379 billion. The legislature passed a suite of bills with increasing existing taxes, eliminating some tax loopholes and authorizing new taxes. Components of the revenue package include increases on the business and occupation (B&O) tax; the state’s “top-line” gross receipts tax.
• HB 2081 (Fitzgibbon, D-Seattle) will increase B&O tax rates on manufacturing from 0.484 percent to 0.5 percent and retailing from 0.471 percent to 0.5 percent and the large “catch-all” category of business services jumps from 1.5 percent to 2.1 percent. B&O surcharge rates are increased from 1.2 percent to 1.5 percent for an additional tax on financial institutions. 2081 is expected to raise $5.6 billion over the next 4 years.
• SB 5814 (Frame, D-Seattle) places retail sales tax to many services and especially in the tech sector, makes nicotine products subject to the tobacco products tax, imposes an additional tax on cigarettes and create a mandatory one-time prepayment of retail sales tax collections for businesses with $3 million or more in taxable retail sales in calendar year 2026. 5814 is estimated to bring in $2.6 billion over the next 4 years.
• SB 5813 (Wilson, C., D-Federal Way) generating $680 million for the state in the next 4 years would apply an additional 2.9 percent excise tax on individual’s Washington capital gains exceeding $1 million and increase the qualifying family-owned business interests deduction amount for the estate tax to $3 million with annual inflation adjustments.
• SB 5794 (Salmon, D-Shoreline) repeals several tax preferences beginning January 1, 2026, including interest on real estate loans B&O tax deduction; insurance producers, title insurance agents, and surplus line brokers preferential B&O tax rate, precious metals and bullion B&O and sales and use tax exemptions, home energy assistance public utility tax (PUT) credit, dentistry prepayments insurance premiums tax exemption, international investment management services preferential B&O tax rate,
international services B&O tax credit, and international banking facilities B&O tax exemption. 2
• HB 2077 (Fitzgibbon, D-Seattle) or the “Tesla Tax” establishes a new tax on businesses producing products under the zero-emission vehicle program generating $281,000 over years.
• SB 5786 (Stanford, D-Seattle) increases the fees by as much as 50 percent on various liquor licenses, permits, and endorsements. 5786, after being amended in the House, is expected to make roughly $5 million a year.
• The Legislature was contemplating HB 2049 to increase the property tax levy from 1 percent to 1 percent plus the rate of inflation and population growth up to 3 percent for both state and local property tax levies. Those provisions were removed from the bill.
HIGH PRIORITY BILLS
Agricultural Exemptions, HB1912. Passed Legislature.
• The Senate amendment defining propane as a special fuel and exempt from CCA until 2030 was adopted.
• Exemption found in bill at the link at Section 2(7)(e)(iii) (C) page 7.
B&O Tax Increase: HB 2081 (Fitzgibbon) Passed Legislature.
• For PPGA members HB 2081 increases the retail B&O tax rate from 0.484% to 0.5% effective January 1, 2027.
• Increases the B&O rate for “services and other activities” from 1.75% to 2.1% effective October 1, 2025. This is a 20% tax increase in the B&O rate.
Bad Wrap: SB 5284 (Lovelett) Passed Legislature.
• 5284 overhauls the state’s recycling system.
• The exemption for the liquid petroleum canisters designed to be refilled remains in-tact.
• Establishes an extended producer responsibility program for covered packaging and paper products.
• Specifies requirements related to planning, funding, enforcement, and outcomes for the program.
• Washington would become the seventh state to adopt laws establishing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging, joining Maine, Oregon, California, Colorado, Maryland, and Minnesota. British Columbia has had a successful EPR program in law for a decade.
• Under the legislation, EPR would be fully implemented in Washington by 2030.
• The state Department of Ecology, which will oversee the program, estimates the bill would expand recycling services to an additional 500,000 homes in Washington, most notably in rural areas and multi-family residences. Under the legislation, packaging producers will be primarily responsible for the costs of collecting the recyclable waste, and residents will see that as a reduction on their utility bills.
PROPANE EMERGENCY TRAINING FOR FIRST RESPONDERS
We all know that propane emergencies can be unpredictable. That’s why the best time to build a relationship with emergency responders is right now—before an incident occurs. Establishing these connections ahead of time can make a world of difference when seconds count.
Local fire departments, emergency planning committees, and emergency management offices are key partners in this effort. These organizations are our front line when it comes to responding to emergencies, and it’s essential that they are familiar with our industry.
One great way to familiarize local responders with propane-specific risks is by inviting them to conduct walkthroughs of your plants and storage locations. This ensures they know the layout, the equipment, and the specific challenges they may face if an emergency ever arises.
To help with this effort, PERC has created a wealth of resources available through The Learning Center:
• The Propane Emergencies Marketer Outreach Toolkit provides you with the key information to share with responders during site visits.
• Additionally, our Propane Emergencies Program Facilitator’s Guide is packed with lesson plans, PowerPoints, and quizzes designed for the 3rd Edition of our Propane Emergencies Program.
• And if you’re looking for real-world scenarios to prepare for, PERC offers 20 individual propane emergency scenarios, covering everything from bobtail rollovers to gas leaks and bulk plant incidents. These scenarios are designed to ensure everyone—from the responders to the marketers—knows what to do during an incident.
• PERC has also partnered with the International Association of Fire Chiefs to develop two Propane Emergencies Training courses, both available free of charge through The Learning Center.
Now is the time to build those relationships with your local first responders. Reach out, offer our resources, and ensure they’re prepared to act swiftly and effectively.
Thank you for your commitment to safety, and for partnering with us to protect our families, our neighbors, and our communities.
Protecting Our Communities and First Responders
Propane safety is a core industry value and starts with each propane provider’s commitment to protecting their customers, employees, and communities. Building relationships and engaging with local first responders help ensure they are prepared to respond and safely work with industry experts if a propane accident occurs.
SHARE THE ESSENTIAL TRAINING FOR MISSION-SPECIFIC RESPONDERS
Help first responders be prepared with the foundational knowledge needed to recognize fundamental propane characteristics, risks, regulations, safety, and indications of potential concerns when dealing with propane.
PPGA SPONSORS TRAINING FOR HAWAII ISLAND FIRE DEPARTMENTS
While the Kilauea volcano on the Island of Hawaii was erupting with energy, the Pacific Propane Gas Association (PPGA) was showcasing their own display of power. From Monday, February 24-28, 2025 the PPGA funded Propane Emergencies and Live Fire Training for the Kona and Hilo Fire Departments, both International Airports, and responders from the U.S. Army Training Area base.
While the islanders rushed to witness Mother Nature’s awesome power, First Responders were getting their own training on the power of liquefied petroleum gas.
Hawaii Island Fire Chief Max Matias and his staff expressed their sincere appreciation to the PPGA, Hawaii Gas and Carl Weeks with Propane Training Services for providing this essential training.
PPGA Executive Director Matt Solak recognized the critical importance of the program and provided full support. While
Hawaii Gas, established in 1904, maintains 1,000 miles of synthetic natural gas (SNG) pipelines on Oahu, it is worth noting that the Hawaiian Islands have no natural gas resources. Oahu also has propane distribution systems and all gas infrastructure on Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai is propane.
Special recognition goes to Ms. Zoe Williams, Safety Director of Hawaii Gas, for her dedication and extensive coordination efforts across all participating fire departments. Additional thanks to Hawaii Gas management and technicians from both Kona and Hilo for assembling, testing, delivering, and operating the 500-gallon training apparatus used during the live burn exercises. A bobtail was present each day to facilitate safety valve demonstrations and component presentation.
The hands-on experience provided firefighters with a deeper understanding of propane emergency response. Following morning classroom sessions, Fire Captains from each department conducted tactical approach training and organized
responders into designated teams. The PPGA provided the fuel for the training apparatus, and Hawaii Gas technicians provided the operational element. Each team had multiple opportunities to practice the live burn approach.
To maximize the program’s impact, the Power Point presentation used by Mr. Weeks during the classroom training was provided on USB drives to each department’s training officers for future reference. Additionally, Hawaii Gas’s 500-gallon tank will remain on the island for ongoing training purposes.
Thank you to the PPGA and all the organizations committed to enhancing emergency response capabilities throughout the Hawaiian Islands.
ENERGY EQUITY’S COLORS ARE YELLOW-ORANGE AND GREEN
Affordability and Environmental Quality Come to Life with Propane School Buses
The community of Browning is about 45 miles south of the Canadian border inside of the Blackfeet Indian Nation, just west of Glacier National Park in northwest Montana. Browning Public Schools is the district that serves nearly 2,000 students in the area, a region U.S. News and World Report classifies in its school rankings as “fringe rural.”
“Fringe rural” may describe the geography of a place at the western edge of the Great Plains, but the phrase doesn’t adequately tell Browning’s story. The District is, per Public School Review, among the poorest in the state, ranking economically
near the bottom when compared to other school districts in Montana. A recruitment video on the district’s website illuminates the challenges Browning faces. It features Angie Pepion, an elementary school teacher. In the video, she says, “My favorite thing about the school district is having stability for our students… such as making sure that every student is fed.”
It is somewhat remarkable for the district’s recruitment video to highlight that students are fed versus other possible attributes such as quality of education, a great athletic program, the number of college bound students or even the graduation rate.
Instead, Browning school officials do their work with a very close eye on the essentials, and on their budget, which includes school bus transportation.
For the 2022-2023 school year, the district’s transportation department was responsible for transporting nearly 75 percent of its students to and from school each day along 20 routes across a territory spanning more than 1,595 square miles. In school year 2022-2023, spending on transportation for Browning School District was approximately $1.7 million, representing 13 percent of the total elementary and high school budgets. Every penny counts in Browning, so the burden falls on Wayne Bullcalf, the district’s transportation director, to stretch the district’s dollars while ensuring students have the safest possible ride –– just like the wealthiest of school districts get to provide to their students.
EQUITY STARTS WITH AFFORDABILITY
It sounds like an impossible task, but Mr. Bullcalf has a secret advantage. In 2016, his homework convinced him of the economic advantages of propane school buses. Since that time, he has not been disappointed. By his calculations, Browning has saved:
• $900,000 in fuel costs. The price of propane in 2016, he says “was about 85 cents a gallon, and in 2024, it’s just $1.12 a gallon.” The price stability of propane compared to gas or diesel is key to smart budget planning, and he makes his dollars go even further by refilling his 18,000 and 13,000 gallon tanks for the school year in mid-summer when prices are at their best.
• $300,000 in maintenance costs. Air and oil filters are less expensive and last longer. Oil changes require fewer quarts and last for more miles. Propane engines don’t need a fuel filter or separator like diesel, so that cost is gone. Even braking systems for propane buses are easier to maintain and downtime is substantially lower than with diesel counterparts. “I wonder sometimes if propane hasn’t made some of my mechanics lazy,” he joked. “We very seldom have problems.”
THE YELLOW-ORANGE TRADITION
In April 1939, the yellow-orange color of school buses was selected because black lettering on it was most legible in
semi-darkness and the color was conspicuous at a distance. For 85 years, school bus safety has been a top priority. Mr. Bullcalf is an evangelist for this tradition and with the savings his district has realized, he says, “We purchased 17 new buses. We have updated our garage facilities and tools, and we put in new radios, new in-bus cameras, and we were even able to install extended stop arms on our buses, a $73,000 cost which the state mandated but didn’t pay for.”
A GREEN ADVANTAGE
As much as the cost savings have translated into a fleet as modern as any school district, the environmental attributes are also appreciated. “We talked about electric but with propane, my buses are already green,” Mr. Bullcalf said. “One time, it was a Friday afternoon and one of our drivers parked his bus in the garage, still running. He went to run an errand and when he came back, the bus garage doors were closed and locked. He assumed someone shut off the engine. On Monday morning, though, we were all surprised to find that bus still running with no noticeable fumes or exhaust in the garage.”
In northwest Montana, winter temperatures stay below 0ºF for weeks at a time. The reliability of propane in that environment has been one of the additional benefits Mr. Bullcalf has discovered. “The buses start in temperatures as low as minus 40 and throw good heat into the cabin quickly,” he said. “We’ve got rough roads up here, and heavy electric buses wouldn’t work. “Plus,” he added, “the batteries would freeze, and I don’t have enough garage storage to keep all the buses inside.”
A BIGGER PICTURE
The concept of energy equity asserts that affordable and reliable energy are vital components of reducing poverty and improving quality of life. Dr. Scott Tinker, a guest on the Path to Zero podcast once said, “The worst environments in the world are where it’s poor, without exception. That’s why the order is important –– energy, economy, environment. Energy, economy, environment. You have to be able to invest in that, to clean up [the] environment.” Wayne Bullcalf and his fleet team are showing that even in poor school districts, the energy-economy-environment rubric can, in fact, deliver great results while students are being delivered to and from school safely and reliably.
NEW LPG PIPELINE FOR PANAMA CANAL
On April 4, The Panama Canal Board of Directors authorized a bidding process to develop a new pipeline facilitating the transport of hydrocarbon gas liquids along the West Bank of the Panama Canal from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific. The bidding process will be transparent, rating proposals based on their technical capacity to develop the pipeline route and operate the line thereafter. This news comes one month after Panama Canal Administrator Ricaurte Vásquez Morales spoke at the International Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Conference in Tokyo, Japan where he focused on the Canal’s key role in American and Asian economies.
In 2024, propane exports from the U.S. set an all-time record of 1.8 million barrels per day, led by Japan, China, and South Korea. The majority of these exports originate in the refinery belt along the Gulf of America from Texas to Alabama, where LPG is loaded onto Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs). VLGCs are able to transit the Panama Canal through new locks established in 2016 during high-water periods, however record droughts from late 2022 through 2024 forced large carriers
and cargo vessels to wait in long queues or otherwise offload their goods for overland transit. The Panama Canal Authority reported a 29% drop in vessel transits during fiscal year 2024 with the biggest hits on hydrocarbon gas liquids, which dropped 66%, largely due to the size of the vessels. Needless to say, this cost the LPG export market billions of dollars in delayed revenue. In order to curb the impact of such environmental hazards and meet the projected 6% growth of the U.S. LPG export market in 2025 and beyond, Panama is committed to building overland transit routes to ensure the Canal remains a viable transit corridor. The Canal is already bolstered by road and rail routes from Colón to Panama City, with significant crude oil storage on both shores and the potential for greater LNG and LPG storage capacity.
The pipeline news comes amidst increased focus on the region by the Trump Administration, which is adamant that the U.S. maintains and improves its agreements with Panama for commercial transit fares and the passage of military vessels. On the same day as the announcement of the pipeline, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino met with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for roughly two hours, discussing security cooperation to combat Chinese influence in the region and a U.S.-financed dock at the Vasco Nuñez de Balboa Naval Base. Soon after on April 9, in a joint statement by U.S. and Panamanian authorities, Mulino announced Panama’s intention to exit the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative, reduce illegal immigration through its southern border, and commit to a slew of bilateral defense initiatives leading to further investment in and reliance between the two countries. All positive news for American economic interests seeking a free and safe global shipping environment.
Regardless of global politics, expanded infrastructure to facilitate propane shipping is positive news for the billions of people globally who benefit from access to propane’s economic and social impacts, and the growing relationship between the U.S. and Panama signals greater opportunities for propane on the world market.
ENERGY THAT’S READY FOR ANYTHING AND BETTER FOR THE PLANET
From powerful storms to extreme temperatures, Mother Earth is unpredictable. That’s why homeowners need an energy source that can handle any challenge that comes their way without harming the planet. Propane is uniquely poised to support both the environment and people everywhere who depend on clean, reliable energy. Every day, families trust propane to heat their homes, fuel backyard fun, and keep the lights on when the grid goes down, all with fewer emissions.
While Earth Day is a time for us all to consider the vulnerability of nature and how our choices can impact future generations, it’s also a reminder of the power of Mother Earth and the need for reliable energy. Propane is a smart choice that lowers emissions without sacrificing comfort or reliability. And with extreme storms, heat waves, and power outages becoming more frequent according to the World Meteorological Organization, homeowners need an energy source that’s as resilient as it is clean.
A CLEAN ENERGY CHOICE FOR A HEALTHIER PLANET
Sustainability isn’t just about using less energy; it’s about choosing the right energy and using it wisely. Propane helps homeowners do both.
Propane is both clean and efficient, producing 52 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electricity generated from the U.S. grid. That’s because nearly 60 percent of grid electricity is still produced in power plants powered by coal or natural gas, making propane a cleaner alternative to reduce your home’s carbon footprint.
When it comes to efficiency, propane-powered appliances outperform their electric counterparts, minimizing energy use. For example, high-efficiency propane furnaces can be up to 98 percent efficient, ensuring nearly all the energy they use goes directly into heating your home.
Propane’s sustainability story keeps getting better with the rise of renewable propane, which is made from sustainable sources like plant oils and animal fats. With renewable propane, homeowners can enjoy the same efficiency and reliability they expect
from conventional propane, but with an even smaller carbon footprint. As renewable propane production expands, more homeowners will have access to this ultra-low-carbon energy source, making it even easier to choose an energy that’s better for the planet.
RESILIENT ENERGY, NO MATTER THE CONDITIONS
Earth Day is also a time to celebrate the power of nature. But that power can be unpredictable. From hurricanes and wildfires to winter storms and extreme heat, weather events are becoming more frequent and severe, putting strain on the electric grid and causing more frequent outages
Homeowners who choose propane are better protected from these disruptions because propane is stored on-site and is always ready to power essential home systems, no matter what’s happening with the electric grid. From home heating and water heating to cooking and clothes drying, propane provides an all-season, all-weather energy solution.
Beyond everyday appliances, propane standby generators provide critical backup power for many families. Unlike gasoline or diesel generators, which rely on fuel deliveries that may be delayed during storms, propane standby generators connect directly to the on-site tank, ensuring days or even weeks of power during an outage. They also activate within seconds of a power failure, keeping refrigerators cold, medical devices running, and critical home systems operational. Plus, propane has a long, stable shelf life so it won’t degrade over time like gasoline or diesel do, making it an energy homeowners can rely on to be ready when they need it most.
CHOOSE ENERGY THAT WORKS FOR YOU AND THE PLANET
Recent conversations around energy have pitted reliability and sustainability against one another. But with propane, homeowners don’t have to decide between helping the planet and protecting their homes. Choose energy that works for both you and nature. Discover the power of propane at propane.com/ for-my-home and learn more about propane’s environmental benefits at propane.com/environment
SOME WEST COAST WINS!
CONGRESS REJECTS ADVANCED CLEAN TRUCK WAIVER
On May 22, the U.S. Senate joined the U.S. House of Representatives by passing disapproval resolutions under the Congressional Review Act to rescind the Biden Administration’s Advanced Clean Trucks and Low-NOx Omnibus waivers granted to the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The rescinded CARB waivers implemented EV mandates on medium- and heavy-duty trucks—including propane bobtails—and engines that superseded the standards currently required by the U.S. EPA.
These rulings impact sixteen other states that previously adopted California’s standards including Oregon and Washington. The resolutions now go to President Trump for his signature, which the NPGA expects in the coming days. Once signed into law, these congressional resolutions will prohibit CARB and any other state agency from implementing these tailpipe emission requirements on truck manufacturers and users.
CARB DECLARES ZERO-EMISSION FORKLIFT REGULATION UNENFORCEABLE
the Western Propane Gas Association (WPGA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) agreed to settlement terms in their lawsuit over the implementation of CARB’s Zero-Emission Forklift (ZEF) rulemaking. The rulemaking would have banned the sale of new propane-powered forklifts starting in 2026 and required fleets managers to retire propane forklifts currently in operation on a set schedule going forward.
Under the settlement, CARB will not enforce the ZEF regulation, manufacturers may continue to produce affected forklifts for sale in the California market, and if CARB pursues any future action regarding this regulation, it will consider adjusting compliance deadlines to ensure fleet managers can continue to operate propane forklifts of model year 2025 or later.
WPGA President and CEO, Colin Sueyres, has been working to protect the California propane forklift market since the ZEF regulation was first proposed. “I want to thank CARB for their willingness to come to the table and find an equitable solution that would work for all parties,” said Sueyres. “WPGA and its coalition partners recognized early on that implementing this rule would prove costly at best, or completely infeasible at worst. By publicly declaring that the rule cannot be enforced and giving private businesses across California and the globe certainty, we can all work together to find workable solutions to improve our climate and air quality. I look forward to continuing our industry’s important dialog with CARB staff and its leadership.”
THE LATEST INSIGHTS FROM ICF INTERNATIONAL
NEW REPORT: U.S. ELECTRICITY DEMAND CONTINUES TO RISE
Our analysis shows that U.S. electricity demand is now expected to grow 25% by 2030 and 78% by 2050 from 2023 levels. Get crucial insights into the implications of this accelerated growth for utilities, energy investors and developers, state energy offices, and federal agencies.
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REIMAGINE THE FUTURE OF FEDERAL SOFTWARE
Our latest survey shows top-performing agencies using innovative development to boost security, effi-
ciency, and services—despite legacy systems and data silos.
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DOES ENERGY EFFICIENCY STILL SAVE MONEY?
Energy efficiency programs save energy and money without sacrificing comfort, even during extreme weather, as shown in a recent Maryland study using digital twins.
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The NPGA is committed to being a powerful and effective voice for the propane gas industry in Washington, D.C. PropanePAC, the political action committee of NPGA, strengthens the association’s advocacy efforts by supporting pro-industry lawmakers in Congress.
Businesses, including NPGA’s corporate members, are forbidden from directly contributing money to PACs. All contributions to PropanePAC must be from individuals, such as propane company executives and employees. The success of the PAC is dependent on receiving financial support from individual supporters.
To be eligible to contribute to PropanePAC, your company must first grant prior authorization to NPGA.
If you are already eligible to participate in PAC activities, you can access PropanePAC’s website.
PROPANE EXPORTS REACH RECORD LEVELS IN 2024
The U.S. exported, on average, 1.8 million barrels per day of propane in 2024 – the highest figure on record since the Energy Information Administration (EIA) began tracking exports in 1973. For comparison, over the last four weeks of the heating season, domestic propane demand has averaged 1.5 million barrels per day. Propane exports have increased yearly since 2007. America is the world’s premier propane supplier, and the top destinations for U.S. propane are Japan, China, Mexico, and South Korea. Domestically, propane remains a clean and affordable way to provide energy to residential homes, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, farms, and to power both stationary and mobile engine applications. For more information on propane’s uses, visit www.propane.com.
JANUARY PROPANE CONSUMPTION OFF THE CHARTS
U.S. propane consumption reached 1.48 million barrels per day in January 2025 – the highest level of domestic consumption for any month since February 2007, and the highest level for any January since 2005. Demand was spurred by a prolong cold snap that caused propane-powered furnaces, boilers, and fireplaces to work overtime in order to keep dwellings at a comfortable temperature. In fact, January 2025 was the coldest month on record in the United States since January 2014.
Space heating is the most energy-intensive application in a typical home and, as a result, is responsible for the lion’s share of fuel consumption for residential accounts. Notably, NPGA recently released a new data visualization tool that provides information on the residential space heating marketplace, which includes data for propane and competing thermal fuels, such as fuel oil, wood, and electricity. This new residential space heating tool is available on the Member Dashboard under “U.S. Space Heating Market Tool.”
NPGA RESPONDS TO PRESIDENT’S EXECUTIVE ORDER ON STATE ENERGY
Recently, the White House issued a new Executive Order, “Protecting American Energy from State Overreach.” The Executive Order instructs the U.S. Attorney General to identify state and local laws, regulations, and policies that burden the production and use of domestic energy resources, such as propane, and are unconstitutional, preempted
by Federal law, or otherwise unenforceable. In response to this White House directive, NPGA has compiled an extensive list of state and local actions for the Attorney General to review and consider challenging. In all, NPGA identified 139 potentially illegal laws, regulations, ordinances, policies, executive orders, and actions across 28 states and the District of Columbia that disincentivize the use of American propane and create an environment hostile to future industry investment.
Steve Kaminski, NPGA’s President & Chief Executive Officer, has spearheaded the Association’s response to President Trump’s Executive Order. “NPGA applauds President Trump for his commitment to unleash American energy and for recognizing that numerous states and municipalities have illegally overstepped Federal law in pursuing their anti-gas ambitions,” stated Kaminski. “Vigorous application of the legal system, including by the U.S. Attorney General’s office, is sorely needed to ensure that state and local rules do not violate Federal law protecting energy neutrality. NPGA has provided the Attorney General a roadmap to achieve the President’s goal and has offered NPGA’s unwavering assistance in achieving it.”
PRESIDENT SIGNS WATER HEATER LEGISLATION
On Friday, May 9, President Trump signed four pieces of legislation under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) overturning Biden-era efficiency rules, including for household water heaters. The CRA allows Congress, with the President’s signature, to roll back recently finalized federal rules. This move comes after President Trump released several executive orders announcing policies promoting energy neutrality and opposing appliance efficiency standards. NPGA is a petitioner in ongoing litigation challenging this water heater regulation and welcomes the President and Congress’s action overturning these regulations that violate the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) and limit consumer access to propane appliances.
NPGA IDENTIFIES REDUNDANT AND BURDENSOME REGULATIONS
On May 12th,, NPGA responded to a Request for Information from the Office of Management and Budget. In that submission, NPGA identified 13 separate Federal regulations across 6 agencies which were obsolete, unduly burdensome, or otherwise appropriate for recission. The Trump Administration has already taken action on some of these recommendations, including the formal recission of the Department of Energy’s rule on tankless water heaters, which now has no force or effect. While some regulations are currently in effect, others have been suspended for years, and others are currently inactive due to court order. NPGA will continue to fight for our members to keep them from being hampered by unnecessary and costly Federal regulations.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS & LEADERSHIP
PRESIDENT
Jim Reddington
FEI, Inc. jreddington@feiinc.com
VICE PRESIDENT
Gary Kelly
City Service Valcon gary.kelly@cityservicevalcon.com
SECRETARY/TREASURER
Glen Willmott Kiva Energy gwillmott@kivaenergy.com
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
Ryan Buller McMinnville Gas rbuller@mcminnvillegas.com
DIRECTORS
Bruce Engeman
R&D Propane bruce@rdpropane.com
Alex Gallard
Blue Star Gas agallard@bluestargas.com
Doug Holland Morrow County Grain Growers dough@mcgg.net
Ryan Nootenboom Skagit Farmers Supply ryann@skagitfarmers.com
Curtis Odoms All American Propane codoms@thompsongas.com
Craig Schultz LPG Specialties craig@lpgspecialties.com
Bert Turn FEI, Inc. bturn@feiinc.com
Alaska State Director Vacant
Hawaii State Director
Zoe Williams Hawaii Gas zwilliams@hawaiigas.com
Oregon State Director Ryan Buller McMinnville Gas rbuller@mcminnvillegas.com
Washington State Director Marci Ballard Christensen marci.ballard@christensenusa. com
STAFF
Executive Director Matt Solak matt@kdafirm.com
Deputy Executive Director Derek Dalling derek@kdafirm.com
Meetings & Events Director Lauren Concannon lauren@kdafirm.com
Member Services Director Trina Miller trina@kdafirm.com
Financial Director Erin Dalling erin@kdafirm.com
Creative & Communications Director Melissa Travis melissa@kdafirm.com
Administrative Assistant Brooklyn Heath brooklyn@kdafirm.com
NPGA Mid-Year Board Meeting and Propane Days June 8-10 Washington, DC
PPGA & WPGA Summer Conference.......................... August 13-15 Santa Rosa, California
PERC Advisory Committee Meeting September 30-October 1 Tampa, Florida
NPGA Fall Board Meeting ......................................... October 20-22 Burlington, Vermont
PACIFIC PROPANE GAS ASSOCIATION 629 W. Hillsdale Street | Lansing, Michigan 48933 P: (844) 585-4940 | F: (517) 485-9408 pacificpga.org | ppga@kdafirm.com
