BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Gov. Kelly Armstrong signed an executive order waiving hours of service requirements for drivers of commercial vehicles transporting propane and other petroleum products as the state experiences frigid temperatures, with tonight’s low forecast to plunge to around 40 below zero.

North Dakota faces extremely low inventories of propane supplies and other petroleum products as a result of market conditions impacted by severe seasonal weather and increased heating fuel demands, and “the lack of adequate heating fuel poses an immediate risk to public health, safety and welfare,” the order states.

Waiving the hours of service requirements will help carriers avoid delays and deliver propane and other petroleum products to meet the needs of customers and the state.

The 30-day waiver is effective on February 17th. All road safety and vehicle compliance regulations still apply.