Brownback talks about the propane shortage while flanked by State Fire Marshal Doug Jorgensen. (Photo by Stephen Koranda)The price of propane is skyrocketing across the Midwest. The cost has increased more than $1 a gallon since last week and is now selling for about $4 a gallon. That's more than the price of gasoline. Governor Sam Brownback is taking steps to help those who need propane for home heating. He's easing trucking regulations and directing state officials to provide help to poor families. He's also cautioning Kansans not to try risky methods of home heating.
Industry and state officials say bitter cold and supply line problems have contributed to the shortage. Brownback is directing the Department for Children and Families to give priority to propane users in a state program that assists poor families with utility costs. About 83,000 Kansas homes use propane for heat.