Governor Baldacci's letter to President George W. Bush regarding propane shortage
February 16, 2007
Dear Mr. President:
I write today to request your assistance in resolving the current critical propane shortage being experienced by the State of Maine, and the entire Northeast. According to the Maine Oil Dealers Association, Maine receives at least 50 percent, and perhaps as much as 70 percent, of the state's propane supply through rail from Canada. This shortage is quickly impacting the safety and economic well-being of Maine's individuals and businesses that rely on propane.
As you know, since Saturday, February 10th, workers at
Canadian National Railway have been on strike. This strike has paralyzed delivery of propane to Maine by rail and dealers and distributors have begun to ration their supply to ensure public safety. However, even with prioritization of delivery efforts in place, current supplies are projected to only last through mid-next week. Propane is the primary heating fuel for about 26,000 Maine households, or about 5.5 percent of the population. As Governor,
the potential consequences of an exhausted supply of propane are of grave concern in this extended period of very cold weather.
Additionally, a significant number of Maine's businesses utilize propane and are also facing critical situations.
I respectfully ask that you be in contact with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and request his office assist in resolving the strike at Canadian National Railway, or identifying and allowing shipments of propane to be carried to Maine and other New England states. These measures are vital in alleviating the propane shortage being experienced by my state and the entire Northeast region of the United States. We have been in contact
with our neighboring states, including New Hampshire and
Vermont, who share similar concerns.
I appreciate your attention to this request and assistance,
and look forward to your response.
Governor John Elias Baldacci
Cc: Senator Olympia J. Snowe
Senator Susan M. Collins
Congressman Thomas H. Allen
Congressman Michael H. Michaud
Maine Oil Dealers Association
