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Rep. Cory Gardner (CO-04) sent a letter to President Obama today regarding the ongoing propane crisis currently taking place across the country, and specifically in Colorado. Gardner has heard from numerous constituents complaining of significantly higher propane prices, and has asked the Obama Administration for answers as costs for consumers continue to rise. 

The letter read, in part:

“The EIA estimates that households will experience a nine percent increase in heating expenses during the 2013-2014 winter season.  This skyrocketing statistic is particularly concerning.  Rural states will most likely see the worst impact from these increased prices, including Colorado. 

“According to news sources, in the past two weeks, my constituents have seen propane prices nearly triple with the deep winter freeze.  We are seeing prices of as much as six dollars a gallon, which is an enormous uptick.  Increased costs are the last thing small businesses and families need while trying to make ends meet. 

“Keeping energy bills as low as possible for struggling Americans should be a top priority for your Administration during this winter season.  Doing anything less would place a major economic burden on consumers at a time when they can least afford it.  As such, I encourage you to seek answers from your Administration to the following questions:

1)     Is the Department of Energy investigating any potential relief from these propane prices?

2)     Given the lack of infrastructure in this country to transport propane, is the Department of Transportation considering a short-term waiver of certain truck limitations for any emergency transport of propane to areas like Colorado that have a high demand?

3)     Is there any consideration of other appropriate emergency relief actions?

In light of this bitterly cold weather, I urge the Administration to act quickly and take steps to provide immediate relief from these high propane prices.  Thank you for your attention to this important matter.  I look forward to your prompt response.

Click here to read the letter in its entirety.