January 8, 2021
Legislative Sessions Begin
Legislative Sessions in PPGA states will begin in earnest shortly. The 2021 Sessions will be unlike any other due to COVID-19. The unique circumstances and unknowns will undoubtedly figure into what and how things get accomplished during these sessions. The PPGA will work to ensure the propane industry’s voice is heard during this session. The PPGA encourages members to get engaged on legislative issues as the industry will continue to face many challenges particularly in Hawaii, Oregon and Washington. 
  • Alaska: The 1st Regular Session of the 32nd Legislature will begin January 19, 2021. 
  • Hawaii: The 31st Biennium Legislative Session on Wednesday, January 20, 2021.
  • Oregon: Legislative Organizational Days will begin on January 11th. During this week members-elect are sworn in as legislators, bills are introduced, and committee membership is announced. The Legislative Assembly will convene January 19, 2021.
  • Washington: The Legislature will convene for a Regular Session on January 11, 2021.
Defense Legislation Enourages Adoption of Propane Autogas
Last week, Congress favorably voted to override President Trump’s veto of H.R. 6395, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (NDAA), which authorizes annual appropriations and policies for the Department of Defense (DoD). 

Among the many provisions in H.R. 6395 is a pilot program that requires DoD facilities to purchase new alternative fuel vehicles. Section 321 instructs at least two facilities with the largest number of non-combat vehicles and within 20 miles of public or private refueling stations to purchase new alternative fuel vehicles in place of traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles when there is less than a 10 percent cost difference. In addition to propane, natural gas and renewable biomass are also eligible for the program.

NPGA worked closely with the provision’s sponsor, Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Senate Armed Services Chairman, Senator James Inhofe (R-OK), to conduct outreach to House and Senate offices advocating for the program. The Association believes that the pilot program will help expand efforts to increase the use of propane autogas in government fleets. Additionally, NPGA will look to encourage the adoption of other emissions-reducing propane applications in future NDAA bills.

If you have any questions about the NDAA or the proposed pilot program, please contact Michael Baker, NPGA’s Senior Director of Legislative Affairs.
Register for the NPGA Board of Directors Meeting
Although we are all tired of virtual meetings, having the 2021 Winter Board of Directors/Committee & Section Meetings be virtual allows members to participate who may not otherwise have been able to do so in the past. The PPGA would encourage members to take the opportunity to get involved and participate in NPGA activities.

The NPGA’s virtual meetings will be February 1 – 3, 2021 and members can register here.  
2020 Rebate Information
As a reminder, the 2020 rebate program period has closed. Any outstanding rebate applications will still be accepted as long as the receipt is from 2020. The Pacific Propane Education and Research Foundation Board of Directors will be meeting at the end of January to review the 2020 rebate programs and finalize the budgets and projects for the 2021 rebate programs. Marketers will receive information in early February on projects available for the year. Please check the PPGA website for information and up to date rebate applications.  
PPGA Advertising Opportunities
PPGA is accepting ad placements for the 2021 advertising year in its magazine, the Propane Post. Advertising with PPGA is an easy, valuable and cost-effective way to get your service/product in front of the entire Pacific propane industry. The publication reaches the desks of over 150 propane professionals across the states of Alaska, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington.
 
With the pandemic not allowing for face to face visits as much as we would prefer, advertising in the Propane Post provides you with the ability to keep your company and your products in front of the Pacific propane industry leadership, managers, and key decision makers. The publication is emailed quarterly.
Member Benefit Programs
Marketing Services
Safety Compliance
The information contained herein is provided as a service by the Pacific Propane Gas Association (PPGA) for the purpose of education, communication, and information and PPGA accepts no liability relative to the contents, accuracy or use of these services. Nothing in this publication is intended to be construed as legal advice. The user is strictly cautioned to seek legal assistance when attempting to determine any legal rights, responsibilities and procedures with respect to business affairs, coding, or other legal aspects of operating a propane company. PPGA disclaims any and all liability for injury and/or other damages which result to a user from the material offered or discussed herein.