“Fueling the Journey: Navigating Emergency Transport Exemptions Amid CMV Travel Limits”

The PPA consistently obtains feedback and inquiries from members concerning the travel restrictions imposed on commercial vehicles (CMVs) by the state. The majority of companies are acquainted with the 5 Tier Structure, which can be located here. When the policy framework was initially developed by PennDOT, PA Emergency Management Administration (PEMA), PA State Police, and the PA Turnpike Commission in 2019/2020, the PPA collaborated with the state to guarantee that essential fuel deliveries could still be facilitated in the event of active CMV travel restrictions.

• Liquid fuels delivery vehicles (including propane, fuel oil, gasoline, etc.) executing emergency deliveries to individuals, vital infrastructure points, businesses, emergency services, or public works organizations that are either out of fuel or critically low on fuel, potentially leading to a life safety concern or inability to maintain response operations if not addressed.
  • For this framework, “critically low” is defined as having 36 hours or less of available fuel

CLICK HERE to view the Inclement Winter Weather Travel Restriction and Ban Framework for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The framework also includes language that describes particular situations in which a local exemption can be granted for operators with an urgent need to traverse short segments of limited-access highways that are under travel restriction or ban. The following exemptions may be considered and approved by PennDOT or other relevant state agencies with legal authority when travel restrictions and/or bans persist for more than 24 hours:

• Bulk liquid fuels delivery to facilitate critical infrastructure and backup power operations.
• Medical supplies (including medical gases) to replenish healthcare facilities.
• Transportation of other essential commodities, as required, to support life safety and sustainability operations.

Any authorized exemptions will be conveyed to affected parties and will be disseminated via the same channels employed by state agencies as part of the coordinated messaging strategy.

Note: Currently, no local exemptions are in effect, but there are indications of heightened fuel demand due to interruptible natural gas supplies. If your business is affected and a local exemption is necessary, please get in touch with the PPA.

The PPA urges its members to utilize 511PA for the latest weather updates and information regarding road conditions/restrictions.

If you have inquiries about the CMV Travel Restrictions or potential exemptions, please contact Ted Harris at tharris@papetroleum.org.