The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) online portal for annual HAZMAT registration is now accepting registrations for the 2023-2024 registration period. Registration renewals must be completed by July 1, 2023. PHMSA requires both hazardous material transporters and those who ship hazardous materials through common carriers to register and pay […]

What a difference a week makes! A week ago, it was not clear that President Biden and Speaker McCarthy would reach an agreement on a debt ceiling increase, and it was less clear that whatever they ultimately produced would have a chance of getting through Congress. Well, a week later, the deal was made, written […]

The 2023 PPA webinar series will resume tomorrow (June 6) at 9:00 AM! Take advantage of free webinars hosted by the PPA throughout the year. Presenters include industry experts and government agency partners who cover a wide range of topics impacting your business. Adapting and Thriving: How Family-Owned Energy Marketers are Overcoming Challenges and Maintaining […]

The US Department of Energy recently opened two new competitive funding opportunities to support the deployment of electric vehicles and charging stations. Please find more details about these programs below. The Ride and Drive Electric Program is offering up to $51 million to support EV charging reliability, resiliency, equity, and workforce development. The cost share […]

Last week, the Energy Marketers of America (EMA) submitted a citizen petition to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to implore them to publish a clear and comprehensive list of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) to eliminate confusion and uncertainty in the marketplace. Although the FDA has provided a list of products with marketing granted […]

The following is a compilation of policies initiated by the federal and segments of Pennsylvania state government aimed at putting motor fuel and heating fuel marketers out of business. 1. EPA proposes elimination of Oil & Gas from Energy Star® Program The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has officially announced a plan to begin eliminating […]

Last week, Rep. Abby Major (R-Armstrong) introduced House Bill 1256 which would standardize the ability for convenience stores (who sell motor fuel) to purchase state licenses to allow for retail beer sales. The current licensing system requires entities to buy existing Restaurant Licenses (R-License) and convert them to retail beer licenses. The current licensing system […]

On May 18, 2023, the PUC Commissioners voted 5-0 to initiate a proceeding that will result in the issuance of a policy statement on EV charging rate design, directing the PUC’s Law Bureau and Bureau of Technical Utility Services to prepare a proposed policy statement for consideration. The PUC convened the EV charging working group […]

Last week, Senator Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming) introduced Senate Bill 706 which would regulate and tax skill video games in the Commonwealth. This legislation would formally establish the legality of skill video games and generate an annual revenue stream (some estimates have projected $300 million annually) to the state. The operation of skill video games has […]

The EPA removed the controversial electric vehicle (EV) credit (eRIN) from the proposed RFS rule for 2023-2025 now under final review at the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Under the proposed rule issued in November, the agency would allow EV automakers to generate eRINs for charging vehicles using power generated from renewable […]

Developments in Pennsylvania state government over the last few weeks show an intensifying effort to establish zero emission policies for transportation and heating sources. These efforts will become more significant in light of House Democrats maintaining their majority after last week’s Special Elections. It is anticipated that Democrats will continue to hold the one seat […]

A long list of PA House activity occurred last week after the Special Election locked in a one seat House majority. The PPA has placed the following bills on our watch list. To view the entire Bills We’re Watching list please click here. HB 1161 (McNeill, D-Lehigh) Bans the sale of flavored tobacco products, vaping […]

Today, Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Congressman John Joyce (R-PA), along with 82 lawmakers, urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to withdraw a proposed rule that would mandate the installation of gasoline vapor balancing equipment at virtually every small/intermediate bulk storage plant and loading cargo tank wagon across the country. If finalized in the current […]

The Energy Marketers of America (EMA) recently announced an exclusive member service agreement with ThinkTrade, an IRS authorized e-filing service provider and a BBB accredited company with A+ rating, enabling safe and secured filing for taxpayers. ThinkTrade will grant EMA member companies a 15 percent discount off ThinkTrade’s e-filing services through a dedicated landing page […]

EMA needs your help to show why the EPA significantly miscalculated the number of gasoline bulk plants owned by small business energy marketers who may be required to comply with the vapor balancing retrofit proposed rule. This survey collects new information, so please answer the SURVEY HERE even if you answered earlier bulk plant surveys.

Angus Analytics is proud to announce that Bob Levins is now serving in the role of Managing Partner – Performance Analytics. Bob plays a leading role in the development, sales, and delivery of the BRITE business intelligence solution to the retail fuel industry, and ADEPT™ Angus Delivery Efficiency Planning Tools. In the last 10 years, […]

Once again, special elections to fill vacant state house seats will decide which party will control the Pennsylvania State House. These elections will be held on primary Election Day, Tuesday May 16. One seat in Northumberland County is being held to replace Lynda Schlegel Culver who resigned earlier this year after winning a special election […]

The Eastern Energy Expo will take place May 21 – 24, 2023 in Atlantic City, NJ. This annual expo and trade show brings together wholesale and retail liquid fuel marketers, motor fuel distributors, diesel and biodiesel distributors, propane marketers and HVAC service professionals. EEE 2023 is returning to the Mid-Atlantic region for the first time […]

The 2023 PPA webinar series will resume next month! Take advantage of free webinars hosted by the PPA throughout the year. Presenters include industry experts and government agency partners who cover a wide range of topics impacting your business. Adapting and Thriving: How Family-Owned Propane and Oil Businesses are Overcoming Challenges and Maintaining Control June […]

The Political Action Committee Chairman Jason Edris would like to recognize POMPAC and Energy Defense Fund contributions in April 2023. April 2023 POMPAC Contributions The Pennsylvania Oil Marketer’s Political Action Committee (POMPAC) raises funds through personal contributions from industry stakeholders. The voluntary contributions made to the POMPAC Fund are used by the PPA to directly […]

The Pennsylvania Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee on held a briefing on May 1, 2023 discuss grid reliability and infrastructure and provide an update on the future outlook of Pennsylvania power production. A recording of the meeting can be found here. According to Committee Chairman Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23) “the aftermath of Winter Storm […]

On May 3, 2023 the Department of Transportation (DOT) this week published a final rule in the Federal Register (88 FR 27596) that amends the U.S. DOT’s drug testing program to include the discretionary use by employers of oral fluid testing. Oral fluid testing is a win for marketers because it offers a cheaper, more […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in April. Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. Meenan (Tullytown, PA) Petro (Southampton, PA) Retail Convenience […]

Republican lawmakers continue to introduce proposals on how account for EV road usage. Last week, Senator Greg Rothman introduced SB 656 which would eliminate the alternative fuel tax on electric vehicles and replace it with an electric vehicle fee of $380 per noncommercial electric vehicle and $450 per commercial electric vehicle. These fees will be […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is excited to again bring together current and future leaders at the 2023 Summer Leadership Conference. The deadline to book your hotel room for the event is May 9th! Please reference important event information below. Hotel Information ICONA Avalon (7849 Dune Dr, Avalon, NJ 08202) Starting at $319 per night (plus […]

The House was in recess, but the Supreme Court, Senate, and Administration were hard at work. Starting with the Judicial Branch, the Supreme Court announced it would hear a case that would bring into question the almost-forty-year-old precedent known as Chevron deference, whereby courts typically defer to federal agency interpretations of otherwise-ambiguous Congressional directives. In […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is set to announce its intent to proceed with a proposed rulemaking to require speed limiters on commercial motor vehicles (CMV) with a GVWR greater than 26,000 lbs. The requirement would apply to new and existing CMVs that are equipped with factory installed engine control units capable of […]

The Eastern Energy Expo will take place May 21 – 24, 2023 in Atlantic City, NJ. This annual expo and trade show brings together wholesale and retail liquid fuel marketers, motor fuel distributors, diesel and biodiesel distributors, propane marketers and HVAC service professionals. EEE 2023 is returning to the Mid-Atlantic region for the first time […]

Pennsylvania House lawmakers passed eight bipartisan bills, including four with unanimous approval, in the lower chamber’s return to session this week after a nearly two-month hiatus. With a narrow one-vote majority for the first time in more than a decade, House committees also cued up a blizzard of bills on Democratic policy priorities, such as […]

The Environmental Protection Agency announced it will once again suspend the ban on summertime sales of E15 blends. The EPA issued emergency waivers similar to last year that would allow E15 to be used nationwide between June 1 and September 15. The move comes after weeks of lobbying by lawmakers from corn producing states dissatisfied […]

On April 24, 2023, the Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal by Suncor Energy and Exxon Mobil in a climate change case now proceeding in a Colorado state court. The case reached the Supreme Court after the Colorado court refused a move to transfer the case to a more hospitable federal court, and a […]

The EPA’s Office of Underground Storage Tanks (OUST) has created three information sheets to assist UST owners and operators access several federal grant programs providing funds to upgrade tank systems by adding low or zero emission infrastructure at their facilities. The fact sheets offer comprehensive information on the grant funds available to energy marketers, how […]

There was a lot going on last week, but most of Washington was focused squarely on Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s efforts to pass a House bill to address the debt limit. And while the Speaker made very clear his bill was not going to be open for negotiation, at the eleventh hour, he made a deal […]

The Pennsylvania General Assembly will reconvene April 24th for the first voting sessions since early March. It was at that time that Governor Shapiro presented his proposed 2023-24 state budget. In the weeks subsequent, the House and Senate Budget Appropriations Committees have been conducting budget hearings. At these hearings, each state agency presents its individual […]

On April 5, the Pennsylvania Petroleum Association (PPA) held its first-ever Shoot For Scholarships fundraising event. More than 90 participants from dozens of regional energy marketers and HVAC contractors raised more than $11,000, which will help fund the Robert V. Boltz Scholarship Foundation. The foundation, named after industry-leader Bob Boltz, is a nonprofit foundation established […]

On April 19th, U.S. Representatives Greg Pence (R-IN), Rick Crawford (R-AR) and 25 Members of Congress sent a letter to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regarding a proposed rule that would severely limit the authority of state governors to waive federal motor carrier safety hours of service (HOS) regulations during a declared state […]

The Department of Human Services (DHS) informed the LIHEAP Advisory Committee (LAC) last week that the current LIHEAP season will be extended to May 12, 2023. The season was originally set to end on April 28, 2023. The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association serves on the LAC to represent the interests of deliverable fuel vendors and consumers. […]

Recently, the Biden Administration delayed a decision on allowing the year-round sale of E15 in certain Midwest states until the 2024 summer season. The decision stems from a petition by a group of Midwest governors to permit the summertime sale of E15 in their states authorized under a provision in the Clean Air Act allowing […]

The House and Senate returned to Washington, D.C. last week with eyes focused on reaching a deal on the debt limit. House Republicans released their debt limit proposal, which is designed to cut federal spending and repeal significant parts of the Inflation Reduction Act. The proposal comes as Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy announced […]

Last week, thirty-seven members of Congress sent a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan to express their concern over the agency’s failure to reflect the growth in the production of biomass-based diesel in the proposed RFS blending mandates for 2023-2025. The use of biomass-based diesel is becoming an increasingly important blendstock for both biodiesel and […]

EPA unveiled stringent new tailpipe emission standards last week for model years 2027 to 2032, which could result in electric cars making up as much as 67 percent of new vehicle sales by 2032. A companion proposal from EPA is designed to have 25 percent of new heavy trucks be all-electric by 2032. Separately, the […]

We hope to see you at the Eastern Energy Expo which is taking place May 21 – 24, 2023 in Atlantic City, NJ. This annual expo and trade show brings together wholesale and retail liquid fuel marketers, motor fuel distributors, diesel and biodiesel distributors, propane marketers and HVAC service professionals. Experience informative business presentations, attend […]

The FMCSA held a stakeholder meeting for regulated parties on April 12 to announce plans for significant rulemaking proposals, in depth safety studies and data collections for 2023 and beyond, The FMCSA proposed rules, data collection activities and safety studies could have a significant regulatory impact on energy marketers. According to the FMCSA, upcoming proposed […]

With Congress wrapping up its Easter recess, much of the activity took place within the Administration. The biggest news was the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) release of two rules that it says would “accelerate the ongoing transition to a clean vehicles future and tackle the climate crisis” and would lead to two-thirds of new cars […]

Careers await graduates of PPATEC (Pennsylvania Petroleum Association Technical Education Center)  The typical “signing ceremony” involves a young adult playing sports for a four-year college. On March 19, a regional workforce development program held a far more meaningful event — where the students in question signed on to well-paying, lifelong careers. During the ceremony, Emmanuel […]

On April 6th, President Biden vetoed a bipartisan congressional resolution that would repeal the Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule that was implemented by the Biden Administration’s EPA. A major point of contention since it was introduced in 2021, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said the rule was not a “commonsense conservation measure,” but […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expected to propose the toughest-ever standards for tailpipe emissions next week when President Biden travels to Detroit. Sources report that the proposed standards stop just short of an all-out ban on vehicles powered by internal combustion engines and designed to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles. The proposed […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in March. Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. N/A in March Retail Convenience Store Operator This […]

The Political Action Committee Chairman Jason Edris would like to recognize POMPAC and Energy Defense Fund contributions from the first quarter of 2023. Q1 2023 POMPAC Contributions The Pennsylvania Oil Marketer’s Political Action Committee (POMPAC) raises funds through personal contributions from industry stakeholders. The voluntary contributions made to the POMPAC Fund are used by the PPA to directly support […]

On March 29, 2023, the Electric Vehicle Rate Design Working Group filed its recommendations to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (click here to view the document). The working group was established by an order of the PUC. The purpose of which was for stakeholder feedback on how the regulatory body should design rate structures in […]

Conservative news media has been abuzz the last couple weeks regarding the announcement that Stacey Abrams, a predominant progressive Democratic leader from Georgia, has taken a job with Rewiring America as its Senior Counsel. Rewiring America is a well-funded environmental group dedicated to encouraging all Americans to electrify their homes and businesses. The group is […]

Last week, the main event was House passage of H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act. The bill, which would expand oil and gas drilling and roll back environmental protections, including major pieces of President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, is, according to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), dead on arrival in the Senate. Still, […]

The Biden Administration has released new rules that will significantly shorten the list of electric vehicles that qualify for federal tax credits. The rules, issued by the Treasury Department, are a result of the Inflation Reduction Act and designed to encourage consumers to turn away from fossil fuels in favor of EVs. Automakers must meet […]

The PPA joined other petroleum associations in asking the Senate Agriculture Committee leadership to support a five-year extension of the National Oilheat Research Alliance (“NORA”) through October 1, 2033. NORA was first authorized in 2000, via title VII of the Energy Act of 2000, to provide funding that would allow the liquid heating industry to […]

Last week, the EPA approved California’s rule to start phasing out gas-powered heavy-duty vehicles. Also, Massachusetts, Vermont, New York, New Jersey, Washington and Oregon have already moved to adopt the rule even though some lack the electric vehicle charging infrastructure to support new electric trucks. Adopted in 2020, the Advanced Clean Trucks Rule requires manufacturers […]

The IRS requires all untaxed diesel fuel or untaxed kerosene dispensers to display specific labels describing the product and their taxable status and use. The IRS requires these labels to contain specific language that may not be altered or shortened in any way. EPA dispenser labels for low sulfur products are not a substitute for […]

Our 2023 Summer Leadership Conference is quickly approaching! Please see below for important updates regarding the event. We hope to see you in Avalon, NJ. Hotel Information ICONA Avalon (7849 Dune Dr, Avalon, NJ 08202) Starting at $319 per night (plus tax & resort fees) Book Online or by Phone: (609) 368-5155 using group code PAPetroleum2023 Important: […]

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) will officially begin accepting applications for National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Grants today (March 27).  The application deadline will be 5:00 PM EDT on May 5, 2023. This grant was previously scheduled to open on February 24 but was postponed by PennDOT. Visit PennDOT’s Apply for NEVI Funds webpage for […]

The United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit upheld the lower court’s approval of the $5.6 billion settlement in the Visa/Mastercard swipe fee litigation. The approval of the settlement was challenged by the Energy Marketers of America (EMA) and other associations, as well as scores of branded wholesalers and retailers of gasoline and […]

Energy marketers are reminded to be prepared for the annual three-day RoadCheck enhanced roadside inspection and enforcement blitz scheduled for May 16-18. RoadCheck is an annual 72-hour event where inspectors fan out nationwide to conduct enhanced roadside inspections of commercial motor vehicle drivers and their vehicles. The annual inspection and enforcement blitz is organized by […]

Congress is rounding into mid-season form, hearing from leaders of federal agencies as they seek to justify their budget requests for FY 2024. This includes testimony from EPA Administrator Michael Regan before the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee. This was not just an opportunity for Mr. Regan to justify his proposed $12.08 billion […]

The IRS has seen an increase in the promotion of filing certain refundable credits using Form 4136, Credit for Federal Tax Paid on Fuels. In this scam, a third party convinces a taxpayer to fraudulently claim the credit with promises of a windfall refund. However, the promoters of this scam are focused on their own […]

The U.S. Treasury Department announced that it is set to release the guidance next week on the remaining energy tax credits included under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. The department will release proposed guidance on the tax credit for electric vehicles next week. The guidance will mark the end of the first phase of […]

By a vote of 40-9, the Pennsylvania State Senate recently passed the Energy Choice bill (Senate Bill 143) The bill would prohibit local governments from banning or regulating energy use (ex: installation of natural gas, oil, or propane heating system) within their jurisdictions. The legislation passed by a smaller margin than last session. The increase […]

Attendee registration opened earlier this month for the 2023 Eastern Energy Expo. Click here to view registration options and to register online. The Expo will take place May 21 – 24, 2023 in Atlantic City, NJ and feature a two-day trade show (May 23 & 24) with over 200 exhibiting companies. A new promotion this year […]

This week, the House GOP decided to put a few miles on its new majority, taking up a massive energy package, H.R. 1, and contemplating the rolling back of President Biden’s Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) regulations. H.R. 1, which was introduced on Tuesday, would, according to Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), do two things: (1) […]

Applications opened last week for the first round of U.S. Department of Transportation’s new Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program, established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The CFI will provide $2.5 billion over five years to a wide range of eligible applicants that includes cities, counties, local governments, and Tribes […]

Recently, Senators Chris Coons (D-Delaware) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) reintroduced their bipartisan Hydrogen Infrastructure Initiative, a package of four bills to support the adoption of hydrogen in energy-intensive sectors. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Martin Heinrich (D-New Mexico) are also cosponsors. The Coons-Cornyn Hydrogen […]

Women in Energy (WE) is doing their part to introduce more women to the Energy Industry through their Mentorship Award. Women in Energy annually selects a minimum of one woman to be the winner of this award.  The winner is invited to be a guest at their Annual Conference – which includes a two-night stay, […]

A significant development occurred in the state Capitol this past week on the climate change front. Two senior, conservative Republican Senators Gene Yaw (Environmental Committee Chair) and Scott Martin (Appropriations Chair) filed a co-sponsorship memo asking for the support of their colleagues of legislation they intend to introduce that would create a Low Carbon Fuel […]

Governor Shapiro gave his maiden budget address last week, proposing $44.4 billion in spending for the upcoming fiscal year. One line item that was in the budget documents (but about which he did not speak) was projected revenue more than $650 million from RGGI proceeds. This cap-and-trade program addressing fuels used for electric power generation […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced changes in the way employers are notified of driver drug and alcohol violations uploaded to the agency’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. Previously, the Clearinghouse would only notify an employer (by email) of new information uploaded to a driver’s drug and alcohol file for 30 days following an […]

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Division of Weights and Measures has notified the PPA that compliance visits are actively being conducted to ensure advertising product prices for motor fuel street signs and/or pumps are in accordance with the law. PDA has general authority and responsibility to enforce the Consolidated Weights and Measures Act (3 Pa.C.S.A […]

The PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in February.   Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. — N/A in February   Retail […]

Reps. Bob Latta (R-OH), John Joyce (R-PA), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), and Jay Obernolte (R-CA) introduced legislation – the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act – to protect Americans’ freedom of choice when purchasing vehicles. The legislation would reject California’s request for a Clean Air Act (CAA) waiver to require 35 percent of all new light-duty […]

This past week, President Biden released his annual budget. This document, while largely dismissed by Congress, is very indicative of the policies that the Administration will focus on for the next year and, with a divided Congress, where they may focus regulatory actions. The White House is requesting a $1.9 billion, or 19 percent, increase […]

Following a June 2020 ban on menthol cigarettes and other flavored forms of tobacco, illegal tobacco seizures have skyrocketed in Massachusetts according to a state task force report. Massachusetts was the first state to implement a full ban on the sale of menthol and flavored tobacco products and vaping devices. And the result has been […]

Early last week, PA House Speaker Mark Rozzi resigned from his position, and supported the election of Democratic Leader Rep. Joanne McClinton (D – Philadelphia) to that post. Rozzi’s move ended several weeks of gridlock in the House by officially giving Democrats control of that body. As of the writing, the Democrats have not yet […]

The Pennsylvania Senate passed a bill (Senate Bill 254) this past week that would block PA DEP from enforcing California Air Resource Board (CARB) compliance rules under the Heavy Duty Diesel Emissions Control Program. The suspension will last through 2026, with the expectation that new federal standards will be issued in 2027 and Pennsylvania will […]

Attendee registration is now available for the 2023 Eastern Energy Expo. Click here to view registration options and to register online. The Expo will take place May 21 – 24, 2023 in Atlantic City, NJ and feature a two-day trade show (May 23 & 24) with over 200 exhibiting companies. A new promotion this year […]

Last week, the Biden Administration delayed a decision on allowing the year-round sale of E15 in certain Midwest states until the 2024 summer season. The decision stems from a petition by a group of Midwest governors to permit the summertime sale of E15 in their states. The petition is authorized under a provision in the […]

On February 27, 2023, two State Senate Committees held a joint public hearing to evaluate the PJM Interconnection grid reliability during Winter Storm Elliot. The joint hearing was conducted by the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee and the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee. The hearing was prompted by the public concerns raised […]

Senator Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming), this past week proposed the creation of an Independent Energy Office (IEO) in the Commonwealth. Under Yaw’s proposal, the IEO would serve as an energy policy neutral agency that would be tasked with gathering information and data regarding all energy utilized in the state. Yaw would foresee the IEO as being […]

Rep Rich Irvin (R-Huntington/Franklin) recently introduced House Bill 85 create a 5-year pilot program to levy a MBUF (mileage-based user fee) on electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The Act would amend Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in liquid fuels and fuels tax, further providing for […]

Last week, Washington was back in action following last week’s President’s Day recess. In the Senate, the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee held a hearing on the nomination of Joseph Goffman to serve as Assistant Administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation at the EPA. In this hearing, Mr. Goffman was noncommittal regarding […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is excited to again bring together current and future leaders within our industry. We hope you can join us this year in Avalon, NJ! The conference schedule and leadership seminar are now available. Conference Schedule & Leadership Seminar A preview of the conference schedule and leadership seminar can be found below. View […]

This week, EMA joined other members of the Chamber of Commerce in sending a letter to all Members of Congress. The letter is in opposition to the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) proposed rule to impose a nationwide ban on almost all noncompete clauses. The FTC lacks the constitutional or statutory authority to issue such a […]

The Pennsylvania House returned on February 21 to resume their legislative session for the first time in over a month. The chamber has been in a stalemate since January 3rd convening of the 2023 – 2024 session due to neither the Democrats or Republicans having the votes necessary to take control of the running of […]

Last week the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) announced details regarding the increase of Crisis Maximum LIHEAP grants from $1,000 to $2,000. The change will be effective on Tuesday, February 28, 2023. Any Crisis requests processed on or after that date will check against a $2,000 maximum instead of $1,000. DHS previously announced a […]

On February 25, the state Department of Agriculture added Butler, Clearfield, Clinton, Fayette, Lawrence, and Somerset counties to the quarantine area for the spotted lanternfly. Click here for more information. Businesses that operate in or travel through quarantined counties are required to obtain a spotted lanternfly permit. Click here for information on who needs a […]

On February 24, the state Department of Transportation announced it will begin accepting applications for National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Grants on March 27.  The deadline to apply is May 5. This grant was previously scheduled to open on February 24 but was postponed by PennDOT (read more here). An updated Round 1 Notice of Funding […]

The Small Business Legislative Counsel (SBLC) will host a webinar on Thursday, March 2 at 1:00 p.m. EST. In this webinar, SBLC Strategic Policy Director and Paley Rothman employment law attorney Jessica Summers will discuss recent state and federal efforts to ban or limit the use of employee non-compete agreements and other restrictive covenants, what […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else — Gov. Shapiro — Post-Gazette Editorial: Shapiro Perks Suggest Ethical Backsliding In Harrisburg — PA Senate/House Transition — PA Capital-Star: House Speaker Previews Rules Proposal As Legal Relief For Child Abuse Survivors Advances — PA Capital-Star: PA House Speaker Headed For Clash With Senate Republicans On […]

On February 15, the Pennsylvania Petroleum Association submitted formal comments to the PA Public Utility Commission’s Electric Vehicle Charging Rate Design Working Group. The Working Group was formed by the Commission to examine the issue of what rate structures the Commission should consider addressing the growth in the use of electric vehicles in the state. […]

The PPA is hosting a webinar with Pennsylvania Department of Revenue on March 7 at 9:00 AM. Webinar registration can be found here. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue’s Stephen Wisyanski and Matthew Andrechik will take webinar attendees through the ins and outs of motor and alternative fuel taxation in Pennsylvania, answer frequently asked questions, and […]

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy (D) last week announced his plan to require all new cars and light-duty truck sales in the state after 2035 to meet Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) standards. This prohibition of petroleum internal combustion engines follows the same regulatory action taken by California in 2022. Sixteen other states (including New Jersey and Pennsylvania) […]

Sponsorship and registration deadlines are approaching for the inaugural Shoot for Scholarships event. This is event is a fundraiser for the Robert V. Boltz Scholarship Foundation being hosted by the Pennsylvania Petroleum Association. The Robert V. Boltz Scholarship Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that was established by the PPA in 2021. The mission of […]

The U.S. House was out of session last week, but that hasn’t stopped House Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR) from making news regarding permitting legislation in the 118th Congress, noting that he would use Rep. Garret Graves’ (R-LA) BUILDER Act from last Congress as a starting point. The BUILDER Act would have updated the […]

Recently, the Energy Marketers of America (EMA) filed comments on EPA’s Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) proposed renewable volume obligations (RVOs) and percentage standards for 2023, 2024, and 2025, as well as a series of modifications to expand the RFS program. Specifically, EMA highlighted the challenges higher ethanol blend requirements could have on existing underground storage […]

A new study from the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers Association (AFPM) predicts retail gasoline prices will likely increase by as much as 12 cents per gallon in Ohio and six Midwest states due to the decision by seven state governors to require the EPA to remove the one-pound RVP waiver for E10 blends in […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else–   — Gov. Shapiro — Gov. Shapiro Lays Out Serious Concerns Regarding Norfolk Southern’s Incident Management After Meeting With Beaver County Officials  [PaEN] — Gov. Shapiro Announces Pennsylvania Will Conduct Independent Water Sampling Following Ohio/PA Train Derailment  [PaEN] — AP: Gov. Shapiro Will Not Execute Any […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is excited to again bring together current and future leaders within our industry as part of the Summer Leadership Conference June 11-13 in Avalon, NJ. Conference registration includes access to the business seminars, breakfast, and receptions. Discounted room rates are available at the ICONA Avalon. Book Online or by Phone: (609) 368-5155 […]

This past week, the Democrats won three special elections that were conducted for the purpose of filling vacant House seats. Although the outcome was expected (all the seats were in heavily Democratic parts of Allegheny County) the results were significant in that for the first time in 12 years, the Democrats control the state House. […]

On September 29, 2022, the federal government appropriated an additional $1 billion in supplemental LIHEAP funding through a Continuing Resolution (Sec. 146, Pub. L. 117-58). On November 2, 2022, PA Department of Human Services (DHS) announced that Pennsylvania would receive approximately $38 million in additional funds through this supplemental appropriation. These supplemental funds were not […]

Feedback Requested: Hazmat Endorsement Renewal Delays The PPA has received reports from multiple companies in the past 6 months indicating a prolonged wait period for HME Threat Assessment Program approval. Since PennDOT administers its own HME testing program rather than relying on TSA federal processing center, PennDOT is responsible for notifying the driver (as defined […]

Last Monday, the Energy Marketers of America (EMA) submitted comments regarding the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) proposed rule that would severely limit the authority of state governors to waive federal motor carrier safety hours of service (HOS) regulations during a declared state of emergency. The proposed rule would limit both the scope of […]

For the second straight week, U.S. House Republicans held hearings designed to question Biden Administration activities and advanced Congressional Review Act (CRA) actions – a vehicle for lawmakers to undo recent agency rulemaking through a simple majority vote. EMA was asked to comment on House Transportation & Infrastructure Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO) and Congressman David […]

With the text of the final bill clocking in at over 1,600 pages, it is no wonder that some items that made their way into the 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act (aka the omnibus spending bill) that was signed into law at the end of 2022 have gotten less attention than others. Small businesses should be […]

In a sign that some of the aggressive Republican pushback is working, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is considering easing a proposed rule that would compel companies to disclose climate-related risks. The Wall Street Journal reported recently that the SEC is reconsidering just how stringent the reporting requirement will be. The final version of […]

PA Capitol Report: Top 10 Stories On Harrisburg/PA Politics Last Week Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Gov. Shapiro — MCall – Paul Muschick: Gov. Shapiro’s Plan To Make Govt. More Accountable Is A Model For Others — Post-Gazette Editorial: A Bureaucratic Reform Could Transform PA Government — Spotlight PA: Tracking […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in January Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. — X-Press Energy (Phoenixville, PA) Retail Convenience Store […]

On January 31, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed Executive Order 2023-07 to improve the Commonwealth’s licensing, permitting, and certification processes, beginning a comprehensive review of how long it takes agencies to process applications and how workers and businesses apply online. The Executive Order will help to establish a date-certain for each license, permit, or certificate by […]

On February 3, the Department of Transportation announced it has postponed the opening of the grant application period for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Grant Program.  It was to have started February 24. PennDOT is postponing the application period until the release of the Federal Highway Administration’s final rulemaking setting minimums standards and requirements for […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing a rule to limit biodiesel blends under the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) to 20 percent. This would penalize higher blends of renewable fuels in home heating oil, make fuel dealers less competitive, and undermine state efforts to reduce emissions in the building sector. Send a letter to the […]

Now that U.S. House and Senate Committee assignments are largely completed (more on this later), Congressional hearing activity formally kicked off last week. Supply Chain In the House, the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee held its first hearing on “the State of Transportation Infrastructure and Supply Chain Challenges.” Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) voiced concern about the […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued a new report this week finding marijuana at the top of the list of drugs most frequently detected during driver drug and alcohol testing over the past year. Nearly 41,000 truck drivers tested positive for marijuana in 2022. This represents an increase of 32% over positive marijuana […]

Last week, EMA sent a letter to the administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requesting an extension of the public comment period deadline for a proposed rule that would severely limit the authority of state governors to waive federal motor carrier safety regulations during a declared emergency. The proposed rule would limit […]

It is with great sadness that PPA announces the passing of Bruce Bott, Sr., founder of ADD Systems and long-time strong industry supporter. Bruce’s Life Celebration will include a visitation on Monday, February 6, 2023, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the William J. Leber Funeral Home in Chester, NJ. On Tuesday, February 7, 2023, […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Gov. Shapiro — Gov. Shapiro Issues Order Directing Agencies To Set Deadlines For Permit Reviews, Requires Money-Back Guarantee If Deadlines Not Met  [PaEN] — PennLive – Jan Murphy: Shapiro Offers A Money-Back Guarantee On PA’s Licensing And Permitting Process — PA Capital-Star: Shapiro Launches Review […]

On January 26, House Republican leader Rep. Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster) announced the appointment of Republican Committee Chairs— Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron) was named Republican Chair of the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. “Now more than ever, Pennsylvania’s role as an energy producer is vital to the future of our Commonwealth and our nation,” Rep. […]

We encourage you to participate in a committee this year. Your voice will help shape the direction of the association on important topics and initiatives. Committees include: Convention, Education, Heating Fuels, Motor Fuel & C-Store, New Generation, Political Action and Propane. Click Here to view the objectives of each committee, meeting dates and to join. […]

Take advantage of these free webinars hosted by the PPA in the upcoming months. Presenters include industry experts and government agency partners who cover a wide range of topics impacting your business– — February 2: PA Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Funding Program Overview – What It Takes To Win An EV Infrastructure Grant by ChargePoint.  9:00 […]

Last week, Congressional House Republicans moved forward with priority policies – notably legislation that would limit the President’s authority to release oil in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). The legislation, which is being debated on the House floor, would require a plan for increasing drilling leases on federal land before more SPR releases. Rep. Josh […]

The 2022 posting cycle for OSHA’s workplace injury and illness reporting rule begins on February 1, 2023 and runs through April 30. The OSHA injury and illness recordkeeping and reporting requirements generally apply to businesses with more than full time 10 employees or the hourly equivalent. However, certain businesses such as gasoline stations are exempt […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Gov. Shapiro — Gov. Shapiro Signs Executive Order Creating New Office To Implement Economic Development Projects,, Create Jobs, Foster Innovation, With A Special Focus On Disadvantaged And Underserved Communities — Post-Gazette – Salena Zito: How Josh Shapiro Expanded His Base, How He Plans To Lead […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association announced the completion of the most recent phase of the planned expansion of its training center in Middletown. The expansion brings the total floorplan to more than 4,000 square feet dedicated to HVAC and energy training programs. PPA operates the Pennsylvania Petroleum Association Technical Education Center (PPATEC) which offers leading hands-on […]

The Eastern Energy Expo will return to the Mid-Atlantic region for the first time in four years! Join us for EEE 2023 in Atlantic City for the premier trade show bringing together the energy and comfort industry. Exhibit space is already more than 80% sold out! Attendee registration and the complete schedule of events will […]

One of the first issues that the Shapiro Administration will face is the Regional Greenhouse Gas House Initiative (RGGI). This cap and trade program was the centerpiece of Governor Wolf’s environmental policy that was adopted last year by regulation over the strong objections of the legislature. The regulation is currently tied up in a court […]

On Wednesday, Energy Secretary Granholm sent a letter to Congressional House Republicans warning them that limiting President Joe Biden’s authority to tap the nation’s oil reserves would undermine national security, cause crude oil shortages and raise gasoline prices. The Strategic Production Response Act was introduced earlier this month by U.S. House Energy & Commerce Committee […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is proposing to significantly narrow the scope of regulatory exemptions available to CDL drivers during a declared emergency as well as the length of time those regulations are waived. The proposed rule is important to energy marketers because it could hinder the ability to adequately maintain fuel supply […]

The Emergency Preparedness and Community Right to Know Act (EPCRA) of 1986 was created to help communities plan for chemical emergencies. EPCRA requires facilities to report each year on the storage, use and release of hazardous chemicals (including petroleum products) during the previous calendar year. Typically, Tier II reports are filed with the state or […]

The 2022 Economic Census, the U.S. Census Bureau’s official measure of American business, begins mailing out to selected companies on January 31st. Data provided by businesses fuels the most comprehensive economic statistics available. If you receive an official Economic Census letter, a response is due March 15th and is required by law. TAP HERE for […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– March 7– Governor’s Budget Address — Gov. Shapiro — Gov. Shapiro Formally Submits Cabinet Nominations To Senate For Their ‘Advice & Consent’ — Gov. Shapiro Formally Nominates Michelle Henry To Serve As Attorney General — Spotlight PA: Democrat Josh Shapiro Sworn In As PA’s 48th Governor […]

The state Senate passed a bill (Senate Bill 35) this past week that is intended to roll back the motor fuel tax increase that took effect on January 1, 2023. That increase was the result of the significant rise in the average wholesale price for the previous year as calculated in the oil franchise tax […]

With his Inauguration set for this Tuesday, Governor-elect Josh Shapiro has announced several of his proposed Cabinet secretaries. One announcement that has gotten a lot of attention from PPA and other groups in the energy sector is that of the Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Shapiro has selected Rich Negrin, who is […]

Take advantage of these free webinars hosted by the PPA in the upcoming months. Presenters include industry experts and government agency partners who cover a wide range of topics impacting your business– — February 2: PA Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Funding Program Overview – What It Takes To Win An EV Infrastructure Grant by ChargePoint.  9:00 […]

Confusion continues to reign in the state House regarding which party will control that body for the two-year session. The November elections resulted in the Democrats having on paper 102 seats (a majority of the 203 body) but one of those seats included a Democrat in Allegheny County that had died a couple weeks before […]

After an eventful first week of the 118th Congress, House Republicans elected Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) as the next Speaker of the House. As part of the negotiations, Speaker McCarthy agreed to certain concessions to secure the votes of more conservative members – including an agreement to place more of the conservative block on key committees. […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has released the annual minimum employee random drug and alcohol testing rates for 2023. The test rates are the minimum percentage of employees subject to U.S. DOT drug and alcohol requirements who must undergo a random test during the 2023 calendar year. The number of random drug tests […]

The National Conference of Weights and Measures interim meeting in Savannah, Georgia discussed issues related to hydrogen fueling, biodiesel and renewal diesel definitions and labeling, and gasoline product transfer documentation. For hydrogen fueling, a proposal is being considered that would require gaseous hydrogen dispensers have a 5-micron or smaller nominal pore-sized filter to protect the […]

According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) National Taxpayer Advocate, the massive backlog of unprocessed tax returns has been reduced by two thirds over the past year. This is good news for the marketers who waited up to a year or more for their IRS 8849 refund claims and biodiesel blenders credit payments worth tens […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– January 17– Inauguration Day For Gov.-Elect Shapiro, Lt. Gov-Elect Davis — Governor’s Transition — Post-Gazette: Josh Shapiro Is About To Become PA Governor, This Could Be His First Big Test — Gov.-Elect Shapiro To Nominate Rich Negrin For DEP, Retain Cindy Dunn At DCNR and Russell […]

Mark your 2023 calendar with these upcoming PPA membership events– — April 5: Shoot For Scholarships, Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays, Coplay, PA: Benefitting Robert V. Boltz Scholarship Foundation — May 21-24: Eastern Energy Expo, Atlantic City Convention Center: Exhibitor Space & Sponsorships Available — June 11-13: PPA Summer Leadership Conference, ICONA Avalon, Avalon NJ — […]

The federal Internal Revenue Service has published guidance on home efficiency tax credits offered under the Inflation Reduction Act. These federal credits are available for qualified HVAC systems and building envelope components placed into service beginning this Sunday, January 1, 2023. This includes a $600 credit for oilheat appliances that meet 2021 Energy Star® criteria […]

On January 6, the Department of Transportation announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity for Round 1 of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Grant program. The application period will open on February 24, 2023 until 5:00 PM EST on April 6, 2023. “The NEVI Grant Program provides an opportunity for Pennsylvania to build out our […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in December Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. RE Baker & Sons (Clarendon, PA) Retail Convenience […]

The start of the 118th Congress has yet to happen. On Tuesday, House members returned to DC to vote on the Speaker of the House and officially kickoff the new Congress. A group of 18-20 House Republicans voted against Congressman Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), stating a desire for more aggressive fiscal and oversight policies. After 15 […]

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued the 2023 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes. Beginning on January 1, 2023, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be: — 65.5 cents […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — January 17 – Gov.-elect Shapiro, Lt. Gov-elect Davis Inauguration — Governor’s Transition — Spotlight PA: Shapiro Taps Republican Al Schmidt To Be PA’s Top Election Official — AP: Ex-Philadelphia Elections Official Picked For Key State Elections Post — Erie Times: How The New Governor’s Choices […]

As the year comes to an end, we would like to express what an honor and privilege it is to represent the 400+ member companies who support our association. Your membership has a direct impact on our ability to advocate, educate, and inform on behalf of the industry. Thank you for continuing to allow the […]

The PPA will be participating in a committee formed by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to examine the issue of what rate structures the Commission should consider addressing the growth in the use of electric vehicles in the state. The Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Rate Design Working Group will have its first meeting on January […]

As of this writing, controversy is still swirling in the state House as to which party will control, by the narrowest of margins, that chamber (and for how long into the 2023-2024 legislative session). Possible scenarios include the Republicans to have majority control until special elections are held for open seats in either February or […]

The federal Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 reimposes the long-expired Superfund excise tax on crude oil at the rate of 16.4 cents per barrel beginning January 1, 2023. EMA is receiving inquiries about how the Superfund tax will affect downstream energy marketers and tax-exempt purchasers (state and local governments, etc.). First and foremost, refiners are […]

Please review this Special Bulletin PPA sent to members December 9 on the new  2023 Oil Company Franchise Tax and Alternative Fuels Tax Rates effective January 1, 2023. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue published notice in the December 10 Pennsylvania Bulletin of the new 2023 Oil Company Franchise Tax and Alternative Fuels Tax Rates– — […]

On December 19, 2022, the New York State Climate Action Council (CAC) approved a Final Scoping Plan (FSP) that contains its recommendations on how the state should achieve the various greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets contained in the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). The massive 445 page document comes after three years of […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — January 3 – Senate, House Begin 2023-24 Legislative Session — January 17 – Gov.-elect Shapiro, Lt. Gov-elect Davis Inauguration — Governor’s Transition — Inquirer: Shapiro Is Aiming For A Reset With PA Republican Legislators As He Prepares To Become Governor — PennLive – John Baer: […]

On December 22, 2022, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association issued a Regional Declaration of Emergency covering Pennsylvania and other states. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration hereby declares that an emergency exists that warrants issuance of a Regional Emergency Declaration and an exemption from certain regulatory requirements in Part 395 of the Federal Motor […]

On December 23, Congress gave final approval to a $1.7 trillion spending bill which would fund the government through the end of FY 2023 (September 30, 2023). This is the final legislative item before lawmakers leave town for the holidays and mark an end to the 117th Congress. Of significance for energy marketers, the bill […]

Last Wednesday, EMA submitted comments on the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s (PHMSA) Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) regarding potential changes to the hazardous materials registration and fee assessment program. EMA opposed any fee increase on small business registrants. The federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021 authorized PHMSA to […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Transition — Spotlight PA: What Shapiro’s Transition Team Says About How He’ll Govern, And What Some Picks Are Raising Eyebrows — PA Capital-Star Guest Essay: The Best And Worst Of Times – A Tale Of Two PA Transitions– Governor, State House — Inquirer Guest […]

HYPERFUELS announced it is the preferred supplier of Gulf-branded lubricants and fluids for the Superformance GT40 rollers. All five models of the Superformance GT40 line will have the GulfTec® motor oil and Gulf Gold antifreeze available.  Superformance chief Lance Stander said, “Superformance has distributed specially constructed cars in the United States since 1994. As one […]

The PA Petroleum Association is pleased to announce the hiring of Don Mumma as the association’s new Director of Training and Workforce Development. PPA also operates PPATEC which offers leading hands-on technical training solutions for the HVAC and energy industry. In his new position, Mumma will be responsible for directing the design, planning, and implementation […]

The following Renewable Liquid Fuel Policymaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was unanimously approved by the PPA Board of Directors at the December 7, 2022 meeting. This policy framework will act as a guiding principle for the association to pursue moving forward within the heating sector. A background on the membership approval process can be found […]

On December 12, Attorney General Josh Shapiro announced a $38.8 million settlement with JUUL Labs, Inc. for violating Pennsylvania’s Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law and jeopardizing the health of Pennsylvanians, in particular the young people that JUUL targeted with their products. “JUUL knowingly targeted young people with tactics similar to the tobacco companies’ […]

On November 14, 2022 an update to the standard UL 296 was published by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) which expands its scope to include liquid-fuel-fired burners intended for use with biodiesel blends of 20% to 100% (B20-B100) with heating oil. UL296 is the standard developed by Underwriters Laboratories for safety testing of liquid-fuel-fired burners. Prior to […]

The recently passed federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) includes a provision to incentivize the efficiency of heating oil equipment while increasing the amount of biodiesel blended into the fuel. Under the IRA, homeowners are eligible for tax credits of $600 for installation of new oil/biofuel blend-compatible heating appliances. The credit is available to homeowners on […]

The federal Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 reimposes the long-expired Superfund excise tax on crude oil at the rate of 16.4 cents per barrel beginning January 1, 2023. EMA is receiving inquiries about how the Superfund tax will affect downstream energy marketers and tax-exempt purchasers (state and local governments, etc.). First and foremost, refiners are […]

EMA issued these year-end reminders that will benefit PPA members–             CDL Driver Drug/Alcohol Violations Employers of CDL drivers are required to conduct an annual drug and alcohol violation query in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse for each CDL driver they employ. Employers are only required to make a “limited query” to check for […]

On December 12, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Jack Reed (D-RI) and Congressman Jared Golden (D-ME) announced an active push to Congressional leadership to encourage an additional $500 million in supplemental funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The effort comes on the heels of EMA’s October 27 letter to President Biden […]

On December 1, 2022, an amicus brief was filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. on behalf of EMA and other associations challenging NHTSA’s fuel-economy standards for passenger cars and light-duty trucks. The standards will require automobile manufacturers to obtain a fleet-wide average of 49 miles per gallon for model-year 2026, a […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Transition — AP: Shapiro’s Bipartisanship Talk Welcome In Fight-Weary State Capitol — PennLive: Gov.-Elect Josh Shapiro To Hold Inauguration Celebration At Rock Lititz, Lancaster County — Inquirer Column: Will Shapiro Do To PA’s Pension Billions What He Did In Montgomery County? — PA Senate/House […]

The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue published notice in the December 10 Pennsylvania Bulletin of the 2023 Oil Company Franchise Tax and Alternative Fuels Tax Rates– The 2023 rates are– gasoline – 61.1 cents; diesel fuel – 78.5 cents Click Here to read the entire 2023 notice for more information on all rates. The 2022 rates […]

The Department of Environmental Protection has significantly revised its Closure Requirements for Underground Storage Tank Systems guidance document and is now inviting comments on those changes.  (formal notice) These procedures included in the guidance cover closure notification, tank handling, waste management and disposal, site assessment, sampling requirements, analytical requirements, release reporting and recordkeeping. Comments are […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in November. Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores.      N/A in November Retail Convenience Store Operator This […]

Last week, the Energy Marketers of America sent a letter to Congressional leadership regarding the “Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2022,” (S. 5145) that would allow E15 to be sold throughout the year. The legislation was endorsed by the American Petroleum Institute, NACS, NATSO, SIGMA and several agriculture associations including Growth Energy and […]

On December 1, 2022, an amicus brief was filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. on behalf of EMA and other associations challenging NHTSA’s fuel-economy standards for passenger cars and light-duty trucks. The standards will require automobile manufacturers to obtain a fleet-wide average of 49 miles per gallon for model-year 2026, a […]

Last week, EMA submitted comments on the National Labor Relations Board’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding the Standard for Determining Joint Employer Status. EMA urged the Board to withdraw its NPRM, because the proposed definition is too broad and too vague to be workable in practice, including for the energy marketing companies. EMA argued that […]

On Friday, Arizona U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema says she is switching her party affiliation from Democratic to Independent. Sen. Sinema says she will not caucus with Republicans but believes the broken partisan system in Washington does not serve Arizonans well. Senator Sinema’s decision allows Democrats to maintain a 50-seat majority but creates additional challenges for […]

Last week, U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI) and Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY), introduced The Mandatory Materiality Requirement Act of 2022, a companion bill to the one introduced in September by Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD). The bills would block the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from requiring additional disclosures from public companies, including the SEC’s proposed […]

Last week, the Tax Foundation confirmed in a study that excessive tax rates on cigarettes encourage substantial black and gray market movement of tobacco products into high-tax states from low-tax states or foreign sources. Click Here to read the details. TAP HERE for all articles in December 12 EXPRESS Update

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– Transition – Governor — AP: Shapiro Taps Longtime Aides For Top Jobs In Governor’s Office — PennLive – Charles Thompson: Gov.-Elect Shapiro Choses Jennifer Selber, AG Crime Staffer, As General Counsel — Spotlight PA – Stephen Caruso: Shapiro Names Uri Monson, Budget Secretary, Larry Hailsham Executive […]

On December 2, Governor-Elect Josh Shapiro and Lieutenant Governor-Elect Austin Davis announced the members of seven Transition Advisory Committees, which will advise the incoming Administration and prepare to advance Governor-Elect Shapiro’s top priorities: growing our economy, making our communities safer, and ensuring all Pennsylvania students receive a high-quality education. The Transition Advisory Committees include Economic […]

On December 1, the Department of Environmental Protection launched “Electrifying Truck Fleets for Cleaner Air in Our Communities,” a $12.7 million Driving PA Forward initiative to improve air quality by supporting local freight truck electrification. Projects serving environmental justice areas, high traffic density areas, and Act 47 financially distressed municipalities are a top priority for […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released a proposed rulemaking that sets volumetric blending mandates for 2023, 2024 and 2025 under the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS). The proposed rulemaking marks the first time the EPA is authorized to set its own blending mandates since the statutory volumes set by Congress under the Energy Independence and Security […]

Last week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) introduced the “Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2022,” which would allow the year-round nationwide sale of ethanol blends higher than E10. Additional cosponsors of the bill include U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Tina Smith (D-MN), John Thune (R-SD), Sherrod Brown […]

On December 2, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued a waiver extension that removes time consuming regulatory barriers that slow the process for Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) holders to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The two-part waiver gives temporary relief from certain CDL driver skills test requirements. According to the FMCSA, the […]

Last Thursday, the U.S. House and Senate approved legislation that would force a deal between Class I freight railroads and unions, blocking a potential strike that threatened travel and national supply chains. The legislation now goes to President Biden for signature. A deal between all 12 railroad unions and railroads, either by ratification of an […]

On November 30, Guttman Energy, one of the region’s largest private companies with approximately $4 billion in total revenue, Guttman Renewables and Source One Transportation, have now become employee-owned companies, united in a newly formed Company – Guttman Holdings. The companies within this new Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) will continue to market under their […]

American Express recently announced changes to their OptBlue program, including price changes and volume increases for Energy Marketers. For Marketers set up correctly under this program, American Express transactions will enjoy an Interchange rate of $0.75 on transactions below $1,000 and 1.5% on sales $1,000 and greater. These changes offer an opportunity to now have […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — PennLive – Jan Murphy: Pennsylvania Society Weekend Stages A Comeback In NYC — Inquirer: At Pennsylvania Society, Jockeying For 2024 Race For State Attorney General — Governor’s Transition — City & State PA: Shapiro To Be Sworn In As Next Governor Jan. 17 — Shapiro-Davis […]

The State Capitol continues to reverberate from the results of the General Election. Governor-Elect Josh Shapiro has named his transition team, which will assist in the naming of a cabinet and the organization of the new administration. The state Senate, in Republican control with a 28-21 majority, elected Senator Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) as the first […]

Last week, the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Petroleum Institute, Association of Equipment Manufacturers, Growth Energy, NACS, National Corn Growers Association, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Farmers Union, National Sorghum Producers, NATSO, Renewable Fuels Association and SIGMA sent a letter in support of a permanent E15 year-round waiver legislative fix. The groups prefer a […]

Employers of CDL drivers are required to conduct an annual drug and alcohol violation query in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse for each CDL driver they employ. Employers are only required to make a “limited query” to check for drug and alcohol violations for these drivers. A “full query” is only required if a […]

EMA is anticipating Congress will consider additional LIHEAP appropriations before the end of the year. We ask you and your employees to TAKE ACTION NOW in expressing the need for additional LIHEAP funding for the 2022 – 2023 heating season. TAP HERE for all articles in November 28 EXPRESS Update

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires prospective employers of CDL drivers to conduct background investigations before hiring a CDL driver. This process includes determining if the driver has violated U.S. Department of Transportation drug and alcohol regulations within the past three years. Currently, this inquiry requires prospective employers to conduct both electronic queries […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Transition – Governor — PA Capital-Star: Shapiro Transition Team Pulls In Experience From Democratic And Republican Administrations — Politics PA: Shapiro-Davis Administration Announce Transition Leadership Groups — MCall – Ford Turner: PA Property Tax Relief Supporters Have New Friend In Gov.-Elect Shapiro — Spotlight PA: How Democrat Josh Shapiro […]

The federal Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 reimposes the long-expired Superfund excise tax on crude oil at the rate of 16.4 cents per barrel beginning January 1, 2023. EMA is receiving inquiries about how the Superfund tax will affect downstream energy marketers and tax-exempt purchasers (state and local governments, etc.). First and foremost, refiners are […]

Republicans have won control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2022 midterm elections. While the final margin of House control remains undecided due to close races in California and Colorado, Republicans are projected to hold between 219 and 223 seats in the next Congress. Meanwhile, Democrats have retained control of the U.S. Senate. […]

The PPA recently collaborated with the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association, Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association, Pennsylvania Licensed Beverage and Tavern Association, and the Malt Beverage Distributors Association of Pennsylvania to encourage Congress to pass the Credit Card Competition Act. This legislation is currently before the House and Senate. It would reduce credit card processing fees, […]

Recently, EMA sent a letter to the White House urging the Administration to address the negative impact of low heating oil supply that is already being felt by residential consumers and heating oil dealers. To address this challenge, EMA requested that the Administration immediately take the following steps: –Issue an immediate hours of service waiver […]

Applications for the U.S. Department of Agriculture approximately $100 million in competitive grants to expand the sales and use of renewable fuels under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) are due November 21.             Click Here for more information on the program. TAP HERE for all articles in November 21 EXPRESS Update

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Transition — AP: Gov.-Elect Shapiro Opens Transition, To Stay AG Until January — WITF: Gov.-Elect Shapiro Lays Out Transition Plans, Policy Goals In First Press Appearance — PA Capital-Star: Shapiro, Davis Vow To Build An Administration That ‘Looks Like Pennsylvania’ — City & State […]

As of November 13, 2022 the votes from the General Election continue to be counted in Pennsylvania and some other states across the country. Below is a breakdown of what is clear at this point and what remains unclear. Determined — Governor: Josh Shapiro will be the 48th Governor of Pennsylvania. — State Senate: Half […]

PPATEC (Pennsylvania Petroleum Association Technical Education Center) offered its first 10-Week HVAC & Energy Professional Program in July 2022. This program was the result of a multi-year effort that included a building expansion, Pennsylvania Department of Education certification, and Veteran Affairs approval. The PPA pursued this workforce development initiative in direct response to the challenges […]

Employers of CDL drivers are required to conduct an annual drug and alcohol violation query in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse for each CDL driver they employ. Employers are only required to make a “limited query” to check for drug and alcohol violations for these drivers. A “full query” is only required if a […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires prospective employers of CDL drivers to conduct background investigations before hiring a CDL driver. This process includes determining if the driver has violated U.S. Department of Transportation drug and alcohol regulations within the past three years. Currently, this inquiry requires prospective employers to conduct both electronic queries […]

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has reduced the online renewal enrollment fee for transportation workers who possess a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) as well as the enrollment fee for Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) and TWIC applicants who maintain an existing Security Threat Assessment (STA) for the comparable program. TSA uses biographic and biometric information […]

Republicans appear to have won a narrow U.S. House of Representatives majority in the 2022 midterm elections, while final control of the U.S. Senate remains undecided. Nevertheless, neither party will hold a 60-vote supermajority in the Senate, which is needed to overcome a filibuster. Given slight majorities in both chambers, nothing significant will become law […]

Congress may consider additional LIHEAP appropriations before the end of the year.   We ask you and your employees to TAKE ACTION NOW in expressing the need for additional LIHEAP funding for the 2022 – 2023 heating season.             Urge Congress To Act Now! Click Here to send a message to your member of Congress. TAP […]

The White family and Taco Comfort Solutions, based in Cranston, Rhode Island, announced the sudden passing of John Hazen White III, 35, on November 3. He began his career with Taco during his high school years, starting in maintenance and working his way through many departments to his most recent position as Senior Vice President […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — PA Dept. Of State Unofficial Election Returns webpage — New Senate/House Voting Districts — PennLive – Charles Thompson: Democrats And Republicans Say New Voting Districts Had Lots To Do With State House Outcomes — Governor’s Race — PennLive: Gov.-Elect Shapiro Vows To Be ‘A Governor […]

Congress may consider additional LIHEAP appropriations before the end of the year.   We ask you and your employees to TAKE ACTION NOW in expressing the need for additional LIHEAP funding for the 2022 – 2023 heating season.             Urge Congress To Act Now! Click Here to send a message to your member of Congress. More […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is partnering with PA Emergency Management Agency, PA State Police, and PA Department of Transportation to host an industry specific webinar on November 8 at 10:00 a.m. for deliverable fuel marketers. The webinar will also include a 2022-2023 winter forecast outlook from Pennsylvania State Meteorologist Jeff Jumper. The presentation will include– […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in October. Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. –Panco Petroleum Company (Stony Point, NY) Retail Convenience […]

On October 31, the Department of Human Services and Public Utility Commission announced the start of the annual Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) application process for the 2022-23 season– from November 1, 2022, to April 28, 2023. LIHEAP is a federally funded program administered by DHS that provides assistance for home heating bills so […]

On October 26, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Clean School Bus Program rebate competition awarded nearly $34,610,000 from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to 11 school districts in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania school districts include– –– Bradford County: Troy Area School District, Rohrer Enterprises Inc., $2.76 million for seven buses — Dauphin County: Halifax Area School […]

Recently, 158 lawmakers sent a letter to the President urging him to reject California’s forthcoming request for a waiver that would require 35 percent of all new light-duty vehicle sales to be electrified by 2026, followed by a 100 percent requirement by 2035. This means that by 2035, automakers would be prohibited from selling new […]

The U.S. Department of Energy announced the latest round of contract awards for the purchase of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The contracts complete the Biden Administration’s announcement on March 31, 2022, to release 180 million barrels of crude oil to address global supply disruption caused by the war in Ukraine. A total […]

Last week, the federal Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that smaller oil refiners pay more for credits to comply with biofuel blending requirements than do larger integrated oil companies. According to GAO, from 2013 to 2021, companies that tended to trade lower quantities of RINs, often smaller refiners, were either paying more to buy RINs […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — PA Capital-Star: U.S. Supreme Court Rejects PA House Republican Claim Legislative Voting Districts Are Racially Gerrymandered  — Governor’s Race — AP: University Reviews New Allegations Of Academic Fraud By Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano — Inquirer: Republican Gubernatorial […]

On Monday, October 31, the Department of Human Services will announce the PA Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will begin accepting applications for 2022-23 cash and crisis grants on November 1 through April 28.             PPA will have more details, but DHS will be updating their PA Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) webpage […]

EMA, along with 14 other private petitioners and 17 states, filed their opening briefs this week with the federal appeals court in Washington, D.C. on their challenges to EPA’s reinstatement last March of the Clean Air Act preemption waiver for California’s motor vehicle greenhouse gas emissions standards and zero-emission vehicle mandate to address climate change. […]

The National Fire Protection Association 30A Technical Committee met in St Louis last week to address public comments on the proposed revisions to the code. An entire day was devoted to addressing the proposed Chapter 15 dealing with EV Charging at a gas station. Based on comments received during the public comment period, several revisions […]

Last Thursday, EMA sent a letter to the White House urging the Administration to address the negative impact of low heating oil supply that is already being felt by residential consumers and heating oil dealers. To address this challenge, EMA requested that the Administration immediately take the following steps: — Issue an immediate hours of […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing to require vapor balancing equipment at any bulk plant with gasoline storage tanks. Under the proposal, any bulk plant with a maximum daily design throughput capacity of 4,000 gallons or more of gasoline would require vapor recovery for loading and unloading operations. In other words, the 4,000-gallon design […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — Spotlight PA: How Redistricting Could Alter Control Of The Legislature And Other Changes To Watch Nov. 8 — Governor’s Race –WITF: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Wants To Use PA State Police To Bus Migrants To Delaware, Why […]

The results are now available from PPA’s 2022 Field Employee Wage and Benefit Survey. Thank you to all of the companies who participated this year. Click Here for the results.   Click Here for results from previous years. TAP HERE for all articles in October 24 EXPRESS Update

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is partnering with PA Emergency Management Agency, PA State Police, and PA Department of Transportation to host an industry specific webinar on November 8 at 10:00 a.m. for deliverable fuel marketers. The webinar will also include a 2022-2023 winter forecast outlook from Pennsylvania State Meteorologist Jeff Jumper. The presentation will include– […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing to require vapor balancing equipment at any bulk plant with gasoline storage tanks. Under the proposal, any bulk plant with a maximum daily design throughput capacity of 4,000 gallons or more of gasoline would require vapor recovery for loading and unloading operations. In other words, the 4,000-gallon design […]

A bipartisan group of 13 U.S. farm state senators asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency last week to set corn ethanol blending mandates above 15 billion gallons as part of an upcoming Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) reset rule. The EPA gained the authority to establish RFS blending mandates for 2023 and beyond, after years of […]

Last Wednesday, President Biden announced he is authorizing the release of 15 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), a draw that completes the plan announced earlier this year to release a total of 180 million barrels. The White House has released roughly 165 million barrels of oil from the SPR this year, the […]

The U.S. Supreme Court has asked the Biden administration to comment on a petition filed last week by Chevron, BP, and ExxonMobil, asking the Court to overturn a 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision from April that handed a procedural victory to the City of Baltimore in its climate liability lawsuit against the oil […]

EMA last week joined the American and Petrochemical Manufacturers Association (AFPM) and ten additional state and national trade associations to petition the EPA to delay a permanent year-round waiver of the one-pound Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) limit on E10. The waiver was requested in a letter signed by eight Midwestern governor’s last April, including Nebraska, […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — PennLive: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Tells Right-Wing Media Network  The Prestigious Childrens’ Hospital Of Philadelphia Is ‘Grabbing Homeless Kids’ And Experimenting On Them With Gender Transitioning’ — Inquirer: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Will Again Flirt With QAnon Crowd At Lancaster ReAwaken America […]

Joseph L. Pyzowski, 62, of Hollidaysburg passed away on October 17.  He was the owner of Metzler Bros. Tank Truck Trailer LLC, an Associate Member of PPA. Joe was a 4th Degree Knight in Knights of Columbus St. Pius X Council No. 3899, a member of Hollidaysburg Lodge No. 220 F&AM, a board member of […]

The PPA is excited to announce Andy Bradigan (Bradigan’s Inc.), Chris Walton (Clyde S. Walton, Inc.) Jesse McNeely (Reitz Oil Company) Steve Ohl (R.F. Ohl) have been elected to serve on the Board of Directors. Their three-year Director term will become effective January 1, 2023.             The PPA would also like to recognize Karen Padula […]

On October 12, the Department of Transportation will be holding a November 1 webinar and six more in-person workshops on resources now available to help businesses and organizations to prepare in advance of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Notice of Funding Opportunity announcement, which is anticipated for late December/early January. As part of the […]

On Tuesday, the Department of Labor (DOL) released the text of its much-anticipated proposed rules on independent contractors. The proposal will be formally published in the Federal Register on October 13 and the comment period will be held open for 45 days. According to the Small Business Legislative Council (SBLC), of which EMA is a […]

The Small Business Legislative Council reports in September, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) proposed new rules for determining when businesses will be considered joint employers for the purposes of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). Comments on the proposed rules are due November 7. The concept of joint employers and the determination of when […]

On October 12, the U.S. Energy Information Administration released its Winter Fuels Outlook forecasting heating costs for homes that heat with natural gas will rise by 28%, heating oil by 27%, electricity by 10%, and propane 5% from October–March. Heating Oil According to the EIA, 4% of U.S. households (largely in the Northeast) use heating […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Post-Gazette: Celebrating The Life Of Dick Thornburgh: ‘A Yardstick Of Success’ — Governor’s Race — AP: 2 Decade-Old Campaign Spending Record Smashed In PA Governor’s Race — Spotlight PA: 4 Maps Show Where PA Candidates For Governor Are Getting Campaign Cash — TribLive Editorial: Out-Of-State […]

FuelWise Convenience Store switched its E85 dispensers to a premium ethanol-free gasoline supplied by Hyperfuels and has increased its daily sales by 650% over E85 historical sales. Hyperfuels converted the E85 dispensers earlier in the year and started supplying the premium ethanol-free gas last month. Hyperfuels predicted a 300% increase in sales and actual results […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in September. Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. N/A in September Retail Convenience Store Operator This […]

The Political Action Committee Chairman Jason Edris would like to recognize POMPAC and Energy Defense Fund contributions in August and September. August & September POMPAC Contributions The Pennsylvania Oil Marketer’s Political Action Committee (POMPAC) raises funds through personal contributions from industry stakeholders. The voluntary contributions made to the POMPAC Fund are used by the PPA […]

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the availability of approximately $100 million in competitive grants to eligible entities for activities designed to expand the sales and use of renewable fuels under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP). A USDA representative attended the Energy Marketers of America’s fall meeting in Las Vegas last week to […]

Thursday, 158 members of Congress sent a letter to the President urging him to reject California’s forthcoming request for a waiver that would require 35 percent of all new light-duty vehicle sales to be electrified by 2026, followed by a 100 percent requirement by 2035. This means that by 2035, automakers would be prohibited from […]

Last week, U.S. Reps. Newman (D-IL) and Tenney (R-NY) officially introduced the Main Street Competes Act of 2022. This small business-focused bill empowers the Small Business Administration to have a role in studying and promoting competitive markets through federal antitrust law enforcement.             Clean Energy Tax Incentives On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of the Treasury […]

Last week, the Federal Reserve Board finalized updates to the Board’s rule concerning debit card transactions. Pursuant to statute, the updates specify that debit card issuers should enable at least two payment card networks to process all debit card transactions, including “card-not-present” transactions, such as online payments. By law, the Board is required to make […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency  is expected to submit its proposed 2023 and 2024 renewable fuel standards (RFS) to the White house for final review this week. The proposed RFS standards will likely be similar to those finalized for 2022. However, there is one significant change in the proposed standards that will almost certainly have […]

EMA joined 74 other groups in strong opposition to the EEstablishing New Authorities for Business Laundering and Enabling Risks to Security (ENABLERS) Act, which passed the House as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Act would require covered businesses, foundations, and charities to collect and report beneficial ownership information, report suspicious transactions, […]

Last week EMA submitted comments in support of the 2023-2028 National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Proposed Program and the 11 Proposed Program lease sales in the Proposed Final Program.  Federal lease sales will increase the global energy supply from within our own borders and reduce energy prices for families and businesses nationwide. […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Post-Gazette: Thornburgh Memorial Service Set For Oct. 16 — Governor’s Race — Courier Times: Ex-President’s PAC Donates To PA Republican Candidates Who Pushed The ‘Big Lie,’ But Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Got Snubbed — Inquirer: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Has Fervent Base; Dr. Oz Trying […]

On October 3, the Department of Environmental Protection and U.S. Energy Information Administration will begin their weekly State Heating Oil and Propane Price Surveys. If you are part of the survey, you would have received a letter from the U.S. EIA this past summer explaining the survey. You will be contacted during the week (either […]

On Wednesday morning, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued a regional Hours of Service waiver for the following states due to Hurricane Ian: ALABAMA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, KENTUCKY, MISSISSIPPI, NORTH CAROLINA, SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TENNESSEE through October 28, 2022. This waiver covers all fuel deliveries in the states and jurisdictions listed because they support […]

California finalized a regulation that will ban the sale of gas and diesel cars and trucks starting in 2026 and growing to a full ban by 2035. Every American will be impacted by this ban, whether they are in one of the 15 states that copies California vehicle laws or whether they are a consumer […]

On Tuesday, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) approved Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Plans required under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program for the remaining 17 states. With this approval, all 50 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico have access to over $1.5 billion in funding under the NEVI program for […]

Congress Friday approved a Continuing Resolution (CR) to fund the government through December 16 which will prevent a government shutdown when the new fiscal year begins at midnight on Friday, September 30. The President is expected to sign the bill. In addition to federal disaster aid, the CR also includes $1 billion for the Low […]

The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Center for Tobacco Products announced a new webinar to help retailers with tobacco appliance which provides a brief overview of the various resources available to retailers to prevent the sale of tobacco products to individuals under the age of 21. The webinar also covers recent updates to federal law […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Oct. 15:  A Celebration Of The Life And Legacy Of Dick Thornburgh, University Of Pittsburgh — Governor’s Race — Erie Times: Candidates For PA Governor, U.S. Senate Detail Energy Policies At Shale Gas Conference — Inquirer: As Campaign Struggles, Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Plans ‘40 […]

The remaining session days in September of an election year are always interesting. The fall legislative calendar will focus on “must-do” legislation while Members of Congress make final attempts to advance priority legislation.             Budget Resolution As September draws to a close, all eyes are focused on a Continuing Resolution (CR) to avoid a government […]

On Monday, Reps. Peter Welch (D-VT) and Lance Gooden (R-TX) introduced bipartisan legislation known as “The Credit Card Competition Act of 2022” which would ensure retailer choice in payment routing by requiring at least two unaffiliated processors on credit cards, the same process that is used for debit card transactions. Swipe fees remain the second […]

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will hold an exclusive webinar on how heating fuel distributors can apply for cost-sharing grants under the Higher Blend Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP). The webinar will be held on Tuesday, October 11 at Noon ET. The webinar will cover the application process and what kinds of infrastructure projects are eligible. […]

The White House recently published a consumer website to outline “clean energy” tax credits available through the new federal Climate and Energy Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Consumers can sign up for updates as these programs are rolled out. The site does not acknowledge the $600 tax credits that will be available for natural gas, oil, […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — AP: Redrawn Senate, House Voting Districts Inject Uncertainty In Legislative Contests — Governor’s Race — WPost – George F. Will: Why PA Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano’s Candidacy Presents A Special Danger To The Nation — WPost: Republicans In […]

With sadness, we report the passing of Vincent E. Sweeney, 65, President of Sweeney Oil Company in Portage, Cambria County, on September 22.             You may also know he did business as Ray Oil And Gas Company serving Cambria and Somerset counties. Vince was an avid golfer, fisherman, hunter and pool player. He belonged to […]

On July 11, 2022 PPATEC launched our inaugural 10-Week HVAC & Energy Professional Program. This program was the result of a multi-year effort that included a building expansion, Pennsylvania Department of Education certification, and Veteran Affairs approval. Course curriculum for the 400-hour program includes electric, air conditioning, gas/oil heating, and propane training. The initial class […]

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will temporarily exempt the TSA Security Threat Assessment (STA) requirement for Hazardous Material Endorsement (HME) holders whose endorsements expired or will expire before the end of calendar year. The HME Threat Assessment Program conducts a threat assessment for any driver seeking to obtain, renew and transfer a hazardous materials endorsement […]

On September 14, Gov. Tom Wolf announced Pennsylvania was awarded $25.4 million to invest in clean transportation through the state’s plan for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure deployment under the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “Addressing the global threat of climate change is a top priority throughout my administration and it’s a priority that President Joe Biden […]

In 2020, the PPA Board of Directors established a goal to reduce heating oil emissions over a 30-year period. Click Here for a copy of the PPA board resolution. This resolution did not define any specific policy actions for the PPA to formally pursue. In 2021, the PPA Heating Fuels created a subcommittee to identify […]

The recent USDA webinar for companies interested in applying for Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program Grants is now available on demand. The program seeks to encourage market higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel by sharing the costs to build and retrofit biofuel-related infrastructure such as pumps, dispensers and storage tanks.             Click Here to register […]

Last Monday, the Energy Marketers of America (EMA) submitted comments regarding EPA’s proposed revisions to the National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Gasoline Distribution facilities and the Standards of Performance for Bulk Gasoline Terminals. EPA’s proposed rule would require vapor balancing equipment both for delivering to a storage tank and loading a […]

Last week, the Merchant Payments Coalition (MPC) sent a letter to Congress urging support for the “The Credit Card Competition Act”. The letter, which included signatories from 230 state, regional and national industry groups including EMA and all EMA member associations, emphasized how the legislation would help fix a broken market that has allowed Wall […]

The U.S. House and Senate were both in Washington last week for the first time since late July. Passing government funding before September 30 remains a legislative focus, however, a potential rail union strike dominated conversations in DC. Rail Agreement On Thursday, President Biden and the National Carriers’ Conference Committee of the National Railway Labor […]

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the FBI, the National Security Agency (NSA), and others, released a joint Cybersecurity Advisory (CSA) with details on protecting against cyber activity by “advanced persistent threat” (APT) actors affiliated with the Iranian Government’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The U.S. agencies assess that critical infrastructure sectors and organizations in […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — Spotlight PA: PA Election 2022: Your Complete Guide To Candidates For Governor — Inquirer: New Poll Found Shapiro Has More Support, Stronger Public Image Than Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano — Politics PA: Trafalgar Poll: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano, U.S. Senate Candidate Dr. […]

The U.S. Senate returned to Washington for a rather quiet week before the House returns to session on September 13. Next week will begin the legislative sprint to address outstanding items before the end of the 117th Congress. At the top of the to-do list is addressing government funding prior to the September 30 deadline. […]

By Mark S. Morgan, EMA Regulatory Counsel Roadside inspections of drivers and vehicles can happen any time. Federal, state and local enforcement authorities are all authorized to stop and conduct roadside inspections. Sometimes the inspection will be limited to driver qualifications or a particular vehicle equipment system. Frequently, a more comprehensive inspection of both driver […]

On Tuesday, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) released a proposed rule which would establish two or more employers as joint employers if they “share or codetermine” key employment conditions — such as pay, scheduling, workplace safety and employee discipline policies. That includes indirect and reserved authority over those terms and conditions. The latest NLRB […]

On Thursday, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA) reintroduced the Nationwide Right to Unionize Act, that would support the right to unionize by prohibiting states from banning union security agreements through “right-to-work” laws. Twenty-seven states have enacted “right-to-work” laws that prevent unions from collecting dues from non-union members who are covered […]

Last month, U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced the bipartisan “The Credit Card Competition Act,” (S.4674) which would ensure retailer choice in payment routing by requiring at least two unaffiliated processors on credit cards, the same process that is used for debit card transactions. Swipe fees remain the […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — Spotlight PA: PA Lawmakers Spent At Least $3 Million Of Taxpayer Money On Private Lawyers, Experts During Redistricting Battle, Invoices Show — TribLive Editorial: House/Senate Redistricting Legal Bills Are Cost Of Putting Party Before People — Governor’s […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in August Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. — Countryside Fuel (Myerstown, PA) Retail Convenience Store […]

Following EMA’s request, the FMCSA is expanding the current nationwide CDL driver hour of service (HOS) waiver (49 CFR 395.3) authorized under the March 13, 2020 presidential declaration of national emergency. The emergency declaration covers all deliveries of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, ethyl alcohol, heating oil, propane, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), and natural gas now […]

On August 25, the California Air Quality Board (CARB) adopted a regulation that will ban the sales of new gasoline powered cars and light trucks after 2035. This is a significant market impact due to the size of California’s motor vehicle market. It will force automakers to transition to electric vehicle manufacturing to meet the […]

The USDA is hosting a series of webinars for potential applicants for Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program Grants.  The program seeks to encourage market higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel by sharing the costs to build and retrofit biofuel-related infrastructure such as pumps, dispensers and storage tanks. The next webinars will be held September 13, […]

In 2020, the PPA Board of Directors established a goal to reduce heating oil emissions over a 30-year period. A link to the PPA board resolution can be found here. This resolution did not define any specific policy actions for the PPA to formally pursue. In 2021, the PPA Heating Fuels created a subcommittee to […]

The Department of Environmental Protection announced it is still accepting applications for Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebates.  (formal notice) To qualify for the rebate, the AFV must be registered in this Commonwealth. The rebate will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis in the order in which applications are received. The Program will run through the […]

The results of the Gray, Gray and Gray Annual Energy and Propane Industry Survey are now available looking at challenges resulting from the Russia/Ukraine conflict and how companies have adapted. The data collected this year has again been augmented by financial and operational data developed by Angus Energy, a respected energy services firm. “Energy and […]

There is still time to fill out the PPA online Field Employee Wage and Benefit Survey for CDL Drivers and HVAC technicians.             The more companies participate the better information we can share with you. Survey responses are anonymous and limited to one per company. The deadline to complete the survey is September 28, 2022. […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing to require vapor balance balancing equipment installed at bulk plant facilities with gasoline design capacity throughput of 4,000 gallons or more per day. The vapor balancing equipment would be required for tanks, loading racks and cargo tank vehicles loading and unloading at these facilities. EPA currently defines a […]

Last month, U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced the bipartisan “The Credit Card Competition Act,” (S.4674) which would ensure retailer choice in payment routing by requiring at least two unaffiliated processors on credit cards, the same process that is used for debit card transactions. Swipe fees remain the […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — TribLive Editorial: There’s Still Real Work To Do Gov. Wolf — PennLive – Jan Murphy: Former Gov. Tom Ridge Reflects On Politics, Assault On U.S. Capitol, His Health — Governor’s Race — AP: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Sues U.S. House Committee Investigating Assault On U.S. […]

CDL drivers and HVAC technicians are some of the most valuable employees within your organization. The PPA is asking you to participate in our annual wage and benefit survey to provide better metrics for our industry. Survey responses are anonymous and limited to one per company. The deadline to complete the survey is September 28, […]

On August 26, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued the last extension of the temporary emergency waiver put into effect earlier this year to allow the sale of E15 gasoline during the summer driving season. The final waiver is effective August 30, 2022. The EPA cites the “extreme and unusual” global fuel supply shortages caused […]

On August 25, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted a far-reaching plan to ban the sales of all new gasoline and diesel-powered cars, trucks and SUVs in the State by 2035. The ambitious regulations will likely reverberate throughout the country, as other states adopt similar bans and auto manufacturers move forward with their own […]

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the availability of approximately $100 million in competitive grants to transportation fueling facilities for the installation and upgrade of equipment compatible with higher blend renewable fuels. The goal of HBIIP is to increase the market availability of higher blend biofuels. Under the HBIIP, funds will be awarded […]

Take advantage of free webinars hosted by the PPA in the upcoming months. Presenters include industry experts and government agency partners who cover a wide range of topics impacting your business. Here are some of the scheduled webinars– — August 30: Compliance Review Investigations & Hazardous Materials Requirements — September 13: Attract Veteran Candidates By […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — PennLive – Jan Murphy: Gov. Wolf’s Term Ending Soon But He Wants ‘To Go Through The Finish Line Running’ — Governor’s Race — Reuters: PA Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Posed In Confederate Uniform At Army War College — AP: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Wore Confederate […]

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the August 20 PA Bulletin suspending enforcement of vapor leak monitoring requirements for small gasoline storage tanks with Stage I vapor recovery systems in the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh-Beaver regions. Section 129.61a of DEP’s regulations requires the owner or operator of certain gasoline storage tanks located at gasoline […]

The 2022-23 PPA Membership Directory is now available. Published annually, the Directory is an invaluable tool to those involved in Pennsylvania’s petroleum industry. The Directory is an integrated list of Active, Associate and PPATEC members, a Buyer’s Guide of suppliers, equipment manufacturers, local petroleum organizations, and includes a legislative section, all at your fingertips! Click […]

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) selected August 21-27, 2022, as the dates for this year’s Brake Safety Week. Brake Safety Week is an annual commercial motor vehicle roadside inspection and enforcement blitz conducted by law enforcement jurisdictions across the United States. This event is important to energy marketers because brake-related violations comprise the largest […]

President Biden signed into law the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) – a climate, health, and tax-focused reconciliation package. The IRS does not impose new taxes on small businesses (such as the proposed 3.8% tax on business income) and does not raise individual, corporate, capital gains rates, or change step up in basis. The main cost […]

Last week, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas issued an order in the case of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. et al. v. United States Food and Drug Administration et al., No. 6:20-cv-00176, to further postpone the effective date of the “Required Warnings for Cigarette Packages and Advertisements” final rule. The new […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — Politics PA: New Poll – Fetterman, Shapiro Extend Leads — Inquirer: Democratic Candidate For Governor Shapiro’s New Ads Cites Republican Mastriano’s Ties To Antisemitic Content On Gab Online Social Media Site — Inquirer: Florida Governor Campaigning For Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano In […]

The PPA is excited to host a two-part webinar series with the Pennsylvania Division of FMCSA/USDOT in August. This free educational opportunity is specifically focused towards energy marketers who haul hazardous materials. Please note these sessions will not be recorded due to FMCSA’s request. The only way to participate will be to attend the live […]

On August 9, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued another 20-day extension of the temporary emergency waiver effective August 9, 2022 that allows the nationwide sale of E15 during the summer driving season. Click Here for a copy of the extension. The EPA cites the “extreme and unusual” global fuel supply shortages caused by the […]

On August 7, 2022, after a marathon all-night session, the U.S. Senate passed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The final vote was 50-50, with Vice President Kamala Harris casting the tie breaking vote. On August 12, the U.S. House passed the bill sending it to President Biden. The IRA – a climate, health, and tax-focused […]

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced it will now accept online renewals for the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). CDL drivers with hazardous material endorsements must have TWIC credentials to obtain access to secure areas of the nation’s maritime port facilities and vessels. TWIC holders must renew their card every five years. TSA is adopting […]

U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) recently introduced the bipartisan “The Credit Card Competition Act,” (S.4674) which would ensure retailer choice in payment routing by requiring at least two unaffiliated processors on credit cards, the same process that is used for debit card transactions. Swipe fees remain the second […]

At the National Conference of Weights and Measures annual meeting in mid-July, an item to change the tentative code for specifications and tolerances for Electric Vehicle Supply Systems (EVSE) to permanent was approved. This code applies to EV Chargers (both AC and DC) used for the measurement and sale of electricity dispensed to an electric […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — TribLive: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Takes Campaign To Westmoreland County; Stage Flanked By American And Christian Flags [His Opponent Josh Shapiro Is Jewish] — PennLive – Charles Thompson: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Shuts Down His Deposition To U.S. House Panel Investigating Assault […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is seeking four (4) new Directors to serve on the Board of Directors. The three year Director term begins on January 1, 2023. Click here to view the current members. If you are interested in nominating someone (including yourself), please notify the PPA prior to September 1. The election of new […]

It is an eventful week in Washington as U.S. Senate Democrats Sunday passed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) – a climate, health, and tax-focused reconciliation package developed behind closed doors between Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY).             The legislation would make the largest federal investment– $375 billion– in climate […]

U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) recently introduced the bipartisan “The Credit Card Competition Act,” (S.4674) which would ensure retailer choice in payment routing by requiring at least two unaffiliated processors on credit cards, the same process that is used for debit card transactions. Swipe fees remain the second […]

U.S. Departments of Transportation and Energy last week announced the receipt of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure deployment plans from all 50 states. The plans are required in order for states to obtain federal funding under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. The NEVI program was recently infused with $5 billion in funding under […]

Last week, EMA submitted comments in opposition to the FDA’s proposed ruling to ban menthol in cigarettes and characterizing flavors of all kinds in cigars. Not only are these rules not necessary, but by the FDA’s own admission, these rules would inflict substantial economic damage on American small businesses. The proposed rule is likely to […]

Last week, the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) dropped to 469.9 million barrels of crude–  the lowest level since May 1985. This occurred the same week that the Biden Administration announced that it is releasing the next Notice of Sale to supply additional barrels of crude oil from the SPR onto the global market, building […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — Erie Times: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Calls Shapiro The ‘Extreme’ Candidate — Politico: Republican PA Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Threatens To Renege On Testifying Before U.S. House Panel Investigating The Assault On U.S. Capitol — Inquirer: Republican PA Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Concerned About […]

The Conference schedule is now available for the PPA Fall Energy Conference & Annual Meeting October 11-13 in Hershey. Click Here to view the entire list of educational seminars, meetings and social events. The PPA is excited to bring together industry leaders for our premier membership event in Hershey this fall.  Join us in October […]

On July 27, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) announced a breakthrough agreement on a reconciliation package containing provisions on energy and climate, health, and taxes. Now called the “Inflation Reduction Act of 2022,” the package took Washington by storm, as lawmakers and outside groups believed talks to be […]

PennDOT has submitted the Pennsylvania State Plan for Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment to the federal government. This plan provides a general outline of how the state intends to distribute the $171.5 million provided to the Commonwealth for the buildout of electric vehicle charging stations. The money will be appropriated from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. […]

In July, PPA and EMA submitted comments in opposition to the FDA’s proposed ruling to ban menthol in cigarettes and characterizing flavors of all kinds in cigars. Not only are these rules not necessary, but by the FDA’s own admission, these rules would inflict substantial economic damage on American small businesses. The proposed rule is […]

On Thursday, U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced the bipartisan “The Credit Card Competition Act,” (S.4674) which would ensure retailer choice in payment routing by requiring at least two unaffiliated processors on credit cards, the same process that is used for debit card transactions. Swipe fees remain the […]

The National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) has been a leader in the transition to low-carbon liquid fuels in the home-heating sector for decades through testing and promoting the use of the advanced biofuel biodiesel combined with traditional heating oil. Now NORA is setting out to prove that homeowners can reduce a home’s carbon emissions to […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — Politics PA: Fox News Poll: Double-Digit Leads For Democrats Shapiro, Fetterman — NYT: Emails Shed Light On Republican Fake Electors Plan [Including PA Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano As ‘Point Person’ In PA] — WESA: PA Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Called ‘Point Person’ […]

On June 17, 2022, the Department of Agriculture announced the suspension of the 2 percent biodiesel content mandate on diesel fuel sold for on-road use imposed under section 3(a)(1) of the Biofuel Development and In-State Production Incentive Act (73 P.S. § 1650.3(a)(1)) for out-of-state fuel sold in the Commonwealth. The suspension shall be effective Monday, […]

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is awarding more than $44 million in grants designed to make the process to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) more efficient. The funding is part of the administration’s Trucking Action Plan (TAP) authorized last year under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Under TAP, states […]

Following U.S. Senator Joe Manchin’s (D-WV) announcement that he would not (at this time) support increased climate spending, Democratic lawmakers and environmental activists have urged President Biden to take stronger executive action. During a July 20 speech in Massachusetts, President Biden laid out a framework for increased executive action, which so far will include additional […]

The federal Consolidated Appropriations Act that went into effect on April 14 clarified the FDA’s authority to regulate tobacco products containing nicotine from any source, including synthetic nicotine. Recently, FDA issued its first two warning letters to manufacturers for unlawfully marketing non-tobacco nicotine e-liquid products without the required authorization. Collectively, these two companies, AZ Swagg […]

A July 12 story on Bloomberg described how a summer road trip in an electric car was fueled by the Sheetz convenience store chain that has aggressively moved into the charging market.  Click Here to read the article. TAP HERE for all articles in July 25 EXPRESS Update

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — PA Capital-Star: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Courting Voters On Gab Pushes Republicans Further Right — TribLive: Pittsburgh Jewish, Black Leaders Call Out Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano For Ties To Gab Social Platform — Post-Gazette: Western PA Lawmakers Condemn Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano […]

On July 21, Clean Fuels Alliance America announced it has released for immediate review and execution the newest version of their Bioheat® Fuel Trademark License Agreement. This new agreement has been reviewed and developed cooperatively between both Clean Fuels and National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA). The new agreement references Clean Fuels new name as well […]

On July 11, Gov. Wolf vetoed Senate Bill 275 (Yaw-R- Lycoming) which would have prohibited counties, local governments, and authorities from promoting cleaner energy sources to reduce climate-changing greenhouse gas emissions. The bill did not pass the House and Senate with a required two-third margin that would lead to a successful override. This proposed legislation […]

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Drug and Alcohol has clarified the agency’s drug and alcohol policy concerning the legalized use under state laws of CBD oil and marijuana by CDL drivers. The policy is important to energy marketers and heating fuel dealers because it addresses how state legalization of CBD oil and marijuana […]

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has recently announced they will issue a $500 LIHEAP a Summer Fill supplement to 2021/22 LIHEAP season recipients. A 2021/22 LIHEAP recipient is defined as anyone who submitted a pre-season or regular season LIHEAP application that was approved by DHS. These supplements may be used for an outstanding bill […]

The Political Action Committee Chairman Jason Flohr would like to recognize POMPAC and Energy Defense Fund contributions in June. June POMPAC Contributions The Pennsylvania Oil Marketer’s Political Action Committee (POMPAC) raises funds through personal contributions from industry stakeholders. The voluntary contributions made to the POMPAC Fund are used by the PPA to directly support political […]

Last Thursday, U.S. Senator Manchin (D-WV) told Democratic senators he would not support a reconciliation package that included climate spending or taxes on wealthy individuals / corporations. Manchin reportedly told Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) that he would only support legislation that lowered prescription drug prices and extended certain Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) subsidies. […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — Inquirer: House Republican Leader Appealing State Voting District Maps To U.S. Supreme Court — MCall – Ford Turner: Allentown House District Cited In House Republican Challenge To Voting Districts Appealed To U.S. Supreme Court — Inquirer Guest Essay: With New […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is excited to bring together industry leaders for our premier membership event. Join us October 11 – 13 in Hershey to learn, network, and connect. Register now for our 2022 Fall Energy Conference & Annual Meeting. A finalized conference schedule will be released later this month. Participate in the Inaugural Joint […]

Last week lawmakers passed a $45.2 billion spending budget which was signed by Governor Wolf on July 8. The state legislature will now break for a summer recess before reconvening again in September. Here is a recap of recent legislative and regulatory updates that impact your business. Energy Choice Bill Sent To Governor’s Desk With […]

Energy marketers with transportation operations should be prepared for a nationwide roadside commercial motor vehicle (CMV) enforcement blitz scheduled to take place July 10 -16, 2022. Operation Safe Driver Week is an annual event organized by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), a group of state and local transportation enforcement personnel and the Federal Motor […]

Last week, the White House criticized “companies running gas stations” for not bringing down the costs of gas. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that retailers and others in the fuel supply chain need to keep pace with falling oil prices. EMA President Rob Underwood was quoted in the Washington Examiner disputing this claim, […]

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced in a notice of proposed rulemaking last week it will address the climate impact of greenhouse gas emissions from the nation’s transportation system. The proposed rule would require state transportation departments and metropolitan planning organizations to measure and report carbon dioxide emissions of vehicles traveling on their respective sections […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — AP: COVID Nursing Home Deaths Baseless Claim A Campaign Mainstay Of Republican Candidate For Governor Mastriano — Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano The Movie!  The Return Of The American Patriot — LancasterOnline: Penn Cinema Cancels Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano’s Film Premiere; Producer Threatens […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the Association in June. Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. — 2950 Partners LLC (Bensalem, PA) Retail Convenience […]

The Department of Environmental Protection is now accepting applications for approximately $3 million in Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants for school districts, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and businesses in Pennsylvania that want to transition to cleaner fuel transportation.              There are two deadlines for applications- August 26 and December 16. The grants support electricity, compressed natural gas, […]

In a setback to President Biden’s climate change initiatives, a 6-3 majority of the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated the Clean Power Plan the EPA repealed in June 2019 under the Trump Administration that had never gone into effect.             The ruling leaves in place EPA’s authority to regulate carbon dioxide as a pollutant. The CPA […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is warning motor carriers, including energy marketers using hours of service (HOS) electronic recording devices (ELD), to upgrade to 5G networks. The warning comes as mobile carriers are shutting down their 3G networks to make room for more advanced network services, including 5G. As a result, many older […]

The 2022 Heavy Highway Vehicle Use (HHVU) tax reporting period runs from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023. The HHVU tax is paid on each commercial motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 55,000 pounds or greater that travels 5,000 miles or more per year. The HHVU applies to most petroleum cargo tank […]

Last week, the EPA issued another 20-day extension of the temporary emergency waiver effective July 1, 2022 that allows the nationwide sale of E15 during the summer driving season. The EPA cites the “extreme and unusual” global fuel supply shortages caused by the war in Ukraine affecting all regions of the nation as a continuing […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — July 4th — Post-Gazette – Salena Zito: Remembering Another July 4th In A Meadow In The Allegheny Mountains South Of Pittsburgh In 1754 — Congressional Voting Districts — PA Capital-Star: PA Case On Congressional Voting Districts Takes A Back Seat As U.S. Supreme Court Takes […]

Under the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Pennsylvania will have access to $171.5 million in funding to develop an electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the Commonwealth over a five year period. The funding supports the Commonwealth goal of expanding EV charging along the previously designated Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs) and Interstate lookalikes. Federal AFC criteria was […]

PPA has been engaged in opposing the provisions of Senate Bill 435 from being added to a state budget code bill. The legislation, which is being aggressively pushed by PECO, would allow utilities to recover the cost of building electric vehicle charger facilities from their ratepayers. This bill was stalled last year in the Senate […]

On Friday, a bipartisan group of U.S. Representatives urged the Biden Administration to address the current CDL Driver Shortage. In a letter, 67 Congressional Members highlighted the need for the Administration to address “new challenges – such as supply chain issues and inflation [that] are plaguing the transportation industry.” Specifically, the bipartisan group encourages the […]

PPA has communicated with the Senate leadership its strong support for efforts being made by proponents of the Energy Choice bill to include those provisions in a state budget related bill. Both the House and Senate have passed bills that would prohibit municipalities from prohibiting or regulating energy sources in their jurisdictions. However, the Governor […]

U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) are reportedly getting closer to a deal on a slimmed-down Build Back Better (BBB) bill. The talks, which have accelerated in the past few weeks and have been blessed by other senior Democrats, have revealed new details about what may be in a […]

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a total ban on Juul products. This is part of FDA’s new approach to electronic cigarettes, over which its authority was formalized through recent Congressional legislation. The FDA said the company failed to provide sufficient information proving the products were safe, not only for youths but for people […]

Tuesday, the Biden Administration announced plans to issue a proposed product standard by May 2023 that would establish a maximum nicotine level in cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products. A product standard is a power granted to the FDA under the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act to reduce or eliminate an ingredient […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — PennLive – Charles Thompson: PA Governor’s Race Personifies America’s New Path On Abortion – Let States Decide — TribLive: U.S. Supreme Court Abortion Decision Places Higher Stakes On PA Election, Experts Say — PA Capital-Star: Shapiro Has Strong Fundraising Advantage Over Mastriano […]

On June 17, 2022, the Department of Agriculture announced the suspension of the 2 percent biodiesel content mandate on diesel fuel sold for on-road use imposed under section 3(a)(1) of the Biofuel Development and In-State Production Incentive Act (73 P.S. § 1650.3(a)(1)) for out-of-state fuel sold in the Commonwealth. The suspension shall be effective Monday, […]

On May 13, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration expanded the national hours of service waiver to include all motor fuels and heating fuel. This action also included amending the scope of the existing waiver to cover all deliveries. The FMCSA said the expansion to all deliveries of covered fuels is due to the impact […]

Friday, the Energy Marketers of America submitted comments on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) proposed rule that would mandate extensive climate disclosures by public companies. While most energy marketers represented by EMA are not public companies and, therefore, are not required to report directly to the SEC, EMA is concerned due to the costs […]

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance (ODAPC) announced last week the extension of expiring agency enforcement discretion permitting remote drug and alcohol abuse evaluations of CDL drivers by Substance Abuse Professionals (SAP). The enforcement discretion was first issued on April 4, 2020 extended several times and set to […]

The Federation of State Tax Administrators (FSTA) recently published its annual compendium of state motor fuel excise tax rates and laws. The compendium is a comprehensive state-by-state review of motor fuel excise tax requirements that provides 37 data points for each state listed. Those data points include motor fuel excise tax rates; point of collection; […]

The 2021 Annual State Tank Fund Performance Report is now available (XLSX file download). The state-by-state comparative report is compiled each year by the Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials (ASTSWMO). Annual tank fund performance data and regulatory requirements for all 50 states, and the District of Columbia are surveyed in the […]

Last week, the U.S. House approved “Lower Food and Fuels Costs Act,” (H.R. 7606) that includes $200 million for fiscal years 2022 and 2023 for biofuel infrastructure and a provision to allow year-round sales of E15. The funding would be distributed in the form of competitive grants to support the installation, retrofit, or upgrade of […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — LancasterOnline – Brad Bumsted: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano Won’t Talk To Mainstream Press As Contest Against Shapiro Begins — AP: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano, Other Election Deniers Quiet On Bogus Fraud Claims After Their Primary Wins — AP: Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mastriano […]

Make hotel reservations now for the 2022 Pennsylvania Petroleum Association Fall Energy Conference & Annual Meeting taking place October 11 – 13 at The Hershey Hotel. This award-winning destination is a perfect venue to host all segments of PPA membership in one location. The PPA is excited to partner with Women in Energy to host […]

In the Pennsylvania General Assembly, June is always  a critical month in regard to legislative activity. The passage of the state budget prior to the June 30 end of the fiscal year takes top priority, but interest groups and legislative leaders use this period to leverage deals for the passage of other legislation. The PPA […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection agency recently issued a proposed rule addressing National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Gasoline Distribution facilities that effect gasoline bulk plants, loading racks and cargo tank vehicles. Storing, loading and unloading gasoline at these facilities release hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) regulated under the Clean Air Act according to […]

Friday, EMA sent a letter to House and Senate Leadership, urging Congress to act as expeditiously as possible on a multiyear extension of the biodiesel/advanced biofuels blender’s tax credit that is set to expire at the end of 2022. Extending the blender’s tax credit and ensuring that the credit amount is at parity with other […]

Last week, Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) indicated a renewed focus and progress with negotiations on a slimmed down reconciliation package. In recent weeks, Senator Manchin outlined a deal that would raise corporate and capital gains taxes, include some drug-pricing reforms, and would boost both clean energy and fossil fuels. […]

Last week, EMA urged the Biden Administration to implement a new five-year program for federal offshore leasing as soon as possible. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said last month that the department will not have a new plan in place by the time the current program expires on June 30. “The failure to develop a 5-Year […]

Energy marketers operating cargo tank and transport motor vehicles should be prepared for a major upcoming nationwide roadside inspection blitz. The roadside enforcement and inspection sweep is organized by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) and is scheduled to take place August 21 to August 27, 2022. CVSA is a group of federal, state and […]

Thursday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency  extended through June 10, 2022, the temporary emergency RVP waiver issued on May 1, 2022, allowing the nationwide sale of E15 during the summer driving season. The temporary waiver was set to expire on June 10, 2022. The temporary waiver is authorized under Clean Air Act sections during emergency […]

The NFPA Standards Council voted in April not to issue the proposed Tentative Interim Amendment (TIA) which would have added requirements for Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations at motor fuel dispensing facilities to the 2021 Edition of NFPA 30A (Code for Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages).            NFPA 30A is currently in the midst […]

The Internal Revenue Service announced last Thursday an increase in the optional standard mileage rate for the final 6 months of 2022. Taxpayers may use the optional standard mileage rates to calculate the deductible costs of operating a vehicle for business and other purposes. For the final 6 months of 2022, the standard mileage rate […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — Inquirer: Republican Candidate For Governor Mastriano’s Ties To Assault On U.S. Capitol, Efforts To Throw Out Nov. 2020 Election — WITF: How Republican Candidate For Governor Mastriano Promoted Election Lies Between Election Day, Jan. 6 Assault On U.S. Capitol — PennLive: Boycott […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the Association in May– Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores.  — N/A in May Retail Convenience Store Operator […]

The FMCSA is expanding the current nationwide CDL driver hour of service (HOS) waiver (49 CFR 395.3) authorized under the March 13, 2020, presidential declaration of national emergency. The amended emergency declaration also expands the scope and use of the HOS waiver to add diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) and still include all deliveries of gasoline, […]

On Friday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized RFS blending mandates for 2020, 2021 and 2022. The EPA set 2022 volume mandates for ethanol at 20.63 billion gallons and retroactive volume mandates for 2021 at 18.84 billion gallons. Retroactive volume mandates for 2020 are set at 17.13 billion gallons. The EPA also announced the denial […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing amendments to the emissions standards for hazardous air pollution for gasoline distribution facilities. The EPA is proposing to revise National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) requirements for storage tanks, loading operations, cargo tanks and equipment leaks to reflect cost-effective developments in practices, process, or controls. The […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced an extension in the comment period for a proposed rulemaking that would require speed limiters for commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) weighing over 26,000 pounds and operated in interstate commerce. The extension was granted due to stakeholder concern over the short 30-day comment period initially set for the […]

The U.S. House and Senate return Monday from Memorial Day Recess with a daunting agenda: both chambers will explore paths to address gun violence and will begin the annual defense policy bill process. The House and Senate will continue negotiating changes to the “China legislation” that promotes investments in domestic technologies to compete with China. […]

The DHS Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) wants all Critical Infrastructure Partners to be aware of the first iteration of the Secure Tomorrow Series Toolkit, interactive and thought-provoking products for critical infrastructure stakeholders on how to use strategic foresight methods to identify emerging risks and risk management strategies to secure your critical infrastructure systems. […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — Post-Gazette – Salena Zito: Mastriano Is A Disaster For PA Republicans, But The Party Deserves It — AP: Republican Candidate For Governor Mastriano Wants To Make Everyone Re-Register To Vote             “The concept flatly violates federal law, legal scholars say, and may […]

The 2022 Pennsylvania Petroleum Association Fall Energy Conference & Annual Meeting will take place October 11 – 13 at The Hershey Hotel. This award-winning destination is a perfect venue to host all segments of PPA membership in one location. Conference registration and a complete schedule of events will be released this summer.             For the […]

Last week, the House Local Government Committee reported out Senate Bill 275 (Yaw R-Lycoming) entitled Energy Choice legislation to the full House for consideration. This proposal would prohibit local governments from regulating or prohibiting specific energy sources (natural gas, heating oil, propane) use within their jurisdictions. A companion bill, House Bill 1947 (O’Neal R-Washington) passed […]

Last week, the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee failed to approve federal price gouging legislation by a party line 14-14 vote. The bill, introduced by Committee Chair Maria Cantwell (D-WA), is similar to the bill that passed the House the week before which would order the Federal Trade Commission to investigate “price-gouging” by oil companies. According […]

EMA continues to hear from energy marketers who have received hefty fines for failure to display IRS nontaxable use warning labels on dispensers. The IRS requires all dyed diesel and dyed kerosene dispensers to have a specific label indicating that the fuel is for nontaxable use only. Dispensers supplying undyed, untaxed kerosene sold from a […]

The Empire State Energy Association last week shared information about the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance recently announced vehicle fuel tax holiday that starts June 1, 2022 and lasts through December 31, 2022. The New York State excise tax, prepaid sales tax, and state sales and use taxes on motor fuel and […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — Courier Times: How Redistricting Flipped Primary Script On PA Republicans — Governor’s Race — Spotlight PA: How Republican Mastriano Built A Grassroots Movement In PA On Election Denial, Christianity, And Facebook — LancasterOnline Editorial: November’s Gubernatorial Election […]

On May 16, 2022 Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson visited the PPATEC (Pennsylvania Petroleum Association Technical Education Center) facility to learn more about the association workforce development initiatives. The Congressman is currently the ranking Republican on the House Agriculture Committee and would assume the Chairman seat if the Republicans reestablish a majority in the House this […]

On May 19, Department of Human Services Acting Secretary Meg Snead announced the deadline to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) season has been extended to June 17. “The LIHEAP season is closing for the year on June 17, so Pennsylvanians who may still need help with their heating bills should apply […]

On May 13, 2022, EMA filed a petition with a federal Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. to review EPA’s restoration of California’s waiver of preemption under the federal Clean Air Act (CAA), which establishes federal regulation of motor vehicle emission standards. The waiver for California’s Advanced Clean Car program allows the State to set […]

Friday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency extended through June 10, 2022, the temporary emergency RVP waiver issued on May 1, 2022, allowing the nationwide sale of E15 during the summer driving season. The temporary waiver was set to expire on May 20, 2022. The temporary waiver is authorized under Clean Air Act sections during emergency […]

At EMA’s request, the FMCSA expanded the current nationwide CDL driver hour of service (HOS) waiver (49 CFR 395.3) authorized under the March 13, 2020 presidential declaration of national emergency to include both heating oil and propane. The amended emergency declaration also expands the scope and use of the of the HOS waiver to include […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — AP: Mastriano Wins Republican Race For Governor — AP: How PA Republican Governor Pick Could Turn Election Lies Into Action — The Guardian: Sen. Mastriano’s Win Prompts Election Fears In Pennsylvania — Inquirer: How The PA Republican Establishment Broke Itself Trying To […]

On May 13, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration extended the hours of service waiver to 11:59 p.m. on May 31, 2022. FMCSA is continuing the exemption and associated regulatory relief in accordance with 49 CFR § 390.25, because the presidentially-declared emergency remains in place and because, although the number of COVID-19 cases began to […]

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA) online portal for annual HAZMAT registration opened May 1, 2022. Registration renewals must be completed by July 1, 2022. Due to COVID-19 workplace restrictions and processing delays, marketers should register online this year and do so early. However, registrations that were submitted before […]

The PPA is partnering with the Fuel Merchants Association of New Jersey to offer an educational seminar on May 20 starting at 10:30 a.m. to address the unprecedented spike in heating oil prices, and the volatility associated with an uncertain future, threatening to undermine customer relationships in multiple ways. Rich Goldberg, President of Warm Thoughts […]

Last week, EMA, NEFI, Clean Fuels Alliance America and several EMA state associations sent a letter to Congress urging immediate action in response to volatility in energy markets. Specifically, the letter urges lawmakers to offer heating fuel dealers guaranteed Small Business Administration loans; increase and expand tax credits for cost-saving home efficiency upgrades; enact long-term […]

Friday, EMA joined others in the liquid fuel supply chain in challenging a March 14, 2022, decision by the Biden Administration to reinstate California’s waiver for its Advanced Clean Car program. The Biden EPA waiver would restore the State of California’s authority to set and enforce more stringent standards than the federal government for greenhouse […]

On Wednesday, EMA and 93 organizations sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh urging him to abandon or at least postpone issuance of the Department of Labor’s announced proposed rulemaking altering the overtime regulations under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Over the past two months, the employer community has warned DOL […]

More and more contracts for diesel are moving to Europe as refiners are exporting higher than normal volumes, China is low on exports, and diesel refinery capacity has been reduced due to the COVID-induced shutdowns, conversions of some refineries to renewable diesel, and closures from 2021 hurricanes. This is leaving some marketers scrambling to obtain […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — WHYY: Redistricting Forces Contentious Democratic Primary In Northwest Philly — TribLive: Newly Elected Rep. Abney, Grayson Square Off In Pittsburgh House District — Governor’s Race — AP: Ex-President Backs Republican Sen. Mastriano In PA Governor’s Primary— WHYY: […]

GetUpside, the retail technology company rebranded as Upside, and announced it has raised $65 million in equity financing and $100 million in debt financing from General Catalyst with participation from existing investors including Bessemer Ventures and Builders VC. This latest round brings Upside’s valuation to $1.5 billion. “With inflation at a 40-year high, we are […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is excited to bring together current and future leaders at ICONA Avalon next month at the PPA Summer Leadership Conference June 12-14. We hope to see you there! — Hotel room discount deadline is May 13!      — ICONA Avalon -Starting at $290 per night (excluding tax & resort fees)      […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in April.  — Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. Furino Fuels (Swiftwater, PA) — Retail Convenience […]

The PPA Political Action Committee would like to recognize the following individuals who have made a POMPAC contribution this year. — Platinum Supporter: Chris Walton, James Barber, James Deiter, Jason Flohr, Michael DeBerdine, Richard Scheibe Jr. — Gold Supporter: N/A — Silver Supporter: Quincy Longacre*, Steve Oehlert*, Ted Harris*, and Timothy Naylor — Bronze Supporter:,James […]

The PPA is excited to partner with FMCSA and Pennsylvania State Police to offer a new educational opportunity to our membership. This concept will combine both classroom review and mock roadside inspections to assist HazMat transporters in better understanding compliance requirements. Based upon membership interest, we are offering four different mock demonstrations across the state. […]

EMA filed comments in support of a proposed rulemaking by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance that would introduce an oral fluid drug test as an alternative to the current urine specimen test for CDL drivers. The oral fluid test would not replace the urine specimen test but […]

Last Wednesday, the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing entitled, “Excessive Swipe Fees and Barriers to Competition in the Credit and Debit Card Systems.” Both Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Ranking member Chuck Grassley (R-IA) questioned the excessively high swipe fees that continue to wreak havoc on small businesses across the […]

Last week, the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee approved bipartisan legislation led by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) that would allow the US to sue the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) for manipulating energy markets. The legislation – referred to as “NOPEC” – has also been approved by the House Judiciary Committee. […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — AP: PA Lawmakers Navigate Primary Election With Unfamiliar Voting District Maps  — Governor’s Race — Washington Examiner – Salena Zito: In PA, Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Sen. Mastriano Win Would Cost Republicans House, Senate In That State — […]

The deadline to receive the attended pre-registration discount ends May 6 for the Eastern Energy Expo set for May 22 – 25, 2022 at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT.             The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is a proud sponsor of this event. We highly encourage any PPA member planning on attending EEE to register now. To […]

On May 3, PPA and Warm Thoughts Communications will host a webinar to share recent survey results on What Pennsylvanians Think About Energy and Electrification from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. PPA and surrounding state associations gear up to defend against the government-based electrification policies, the industry has united to develop the largest consumer research study […]

On April 28, Department of Human Services Acting Secretary Meg Snead announced the deadline to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has been extended to May 20.  It had been May 6. DHS has been able to provide increased benefits for this extended LIHEAP season due to the availability of funds through […]

The PennDOT is developing its plans for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure investments from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and held a briefing on the program April 27.  That briefing is now available on-demand if you missed it. The webinar is part of outreach the department is conducting with lawmakers, planning partners, utilities, local government […]

Owners of Pennsylvania coal-fired power plants, a coal industry trade group and labor unions that represent their workers filed a lawsuit April 25 to stop the DEP from enforcing new rules that will require fossil fuel power plants to pay to release carbon dioxide. They argue the rules amount to an unauthorized tax and go […]

On Friday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a temporary emergency waiver that allows the nationwide sale of E15 during the summer driving season effective May 1, 2022. The temporary waiver is authorized under Clean Air Act sections during emergency fuel supply shortages (CAA§ 21 l(c)(4)(C)(ii)(I), 42 U.S.C. § 7454(c)(4)(C)(ii)(I)). The EPA cites the “extreme […]

Last week, Congress returned to a busy agenda after a two-week recess. The House and Senate have largely opened up in-person meetings and many trade associations and interest groups are now holding in-person fly-ins.             EV Tax Credits During a hearing with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Senator Manchin criticized the idea of more electric vehicle […]

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued two new proposed rules this week that would ban the manufacture and sale of menthol flavored cigarettes and ban all flavored cigars and cigarillos. Should these federal flavor bans be finalized, it would represent the most far-reaching action taken by the FDA since Congress gave the agency the […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced last week it will move forward with a proposed rulemaking that would require speed limiters commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) weighing over 26,000 pounds and operated in interstate commerce. The FMCSA, in conjunction with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), proposed a speed limiter rule back on […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has entered into a consent decree with Growth Energy to issue minimum biofuel blending volumes under the renewable fuel standard (RFS) no later than June 3. The consent decree was the result of settlement of a lawsuit between the EPA and Growth Energy over the agency’s tardiness in meeting statutory […]

The U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing May 4 on anticompetitive practices by the credit card industry that have led credit card “swipe” fees to more than double over the past decade and are driving up prices as consumers face near-record inflation. The announcement comes less than two weeks after Durbin, Senator Roger […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — Scranton Times Editorial: Courts Ensure Fairer Voting Districts — Governor’s Race — PennLive: Federal Judge Recommends Dismissal Of Lawsuits Seeking To Take Republicans Mastriano, Perry Off Primary Ballot — LancasterOnline – Brad Bumsted: Political ‘Shakedown:’ Republican Gubernatorial […]

Registration is now open for Eastern Energy Expo which will return in-person this year May 22 – 25, 2022 at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT.             The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is a proud sponsor of this event. The discounted hotel room block is quickly filling up and will most likely reach full capacity prior to […]

The Department of Transportation will host an April 27 teleconference on the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Funding Program from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.  (formal notice) The purpose of the public meeting is to discuss the proposed State plan required as part of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program requirement. Pennsylvania is estimated to receive $171.5 […]

On April 23, the final regulation establishing a program to reduce carbon pollution from power plants consistent with the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative was published in the PA Bulletin after a two-and-a-half year development process.             The process included more House and Senate committee hearings and information sessions than any other issue in recent memory, […]

Gray, Gray & Gray’s is launching its 31st annual Energy Industry Survey to help establish the most up-to-date industry benchmarks and the standards by which company performance is measured. This year, the industry looks at challenges resulting from the Russia/Ukraine conflict and how companies like yours have adapted. Your participation and thoughtful responses contribute to […]

Recently, the NFPA Standards Council voted not to issue the proposed Tentative Interim Amendment (TIA) which would have added a new section to the 2021 edition of NFPA 30A (Code for Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages) regulating the placement of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations at motor fuel dispensing facilities. A TIA generally […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a proposed rulemaking this week to approve new Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) pathways for biofuels that are produced from canola/rapeseed oil. Only biofuels meeting EPA threshold greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions are eligible for the RFS program. The EPA assessed the GHG emission from canola/rapeseed biofuels produced via hydrotreating […]

The Biden Administration is launching a new series of initiatives aimed at increasing the number of qualified CDL drivers available to motor carriers nationwide. The “Trucking Action Plan” (Plan) is designed to draw new CDL drivers into the profession and retain those currently employed in an effort to eliminate the current 80,000 driver shortfall nationwide. […]

Recently Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), and Representatives Peter Welch (D-VT) and Beth Van Duyne (R-TX) sent a bipartisan, bicameral letter to the CEOs of Visa and Mastercard urging the companies not to proceed with plans to raise their interchange fee rates. In […]

Thursday, U.S. Reps. Val Demings (D-FL), Jerry Nadler (D-NY), David Cicilline (D-RI) and Kathy Castor (D-FL) introduced legislation “The Oil and Gas Industry Antitrust Act” which calls on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to conduct an investigation “to determine if the price of gasoline is being manipulated by reducing refinery capacity or by any other […]

Last Monday, the Biden Administration published sales notices for oil and gas leases in June on public lands in six states. In its announcement, the Department of Interior said it would proceed with the sales, but with diminished acreage and steeper royalties for oil and gas companies. Still though, this is a sharp policy reversal […]

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Department of Energy (DOE), National Security Agency (NSA), and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released a joint Cybersecurity Advisory to warn that certain advanced persistent threat (APT) actors have exhibited the capability to gain full system access to multiple industrial control system (ICS)/supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — PA Capital-Star – Stephen Caruso: More Diverse Candidates On The Ballot For Harrisburg, But Latinos Are Largely Left out — WESA: University Of Pittsburgh Fears Loss Of State Funding, Attacks On Fetal Tissue Issues With Redistricting — […]

The special hotel room block is over 80 percent full for the PPA Summer Leadership Conference on June 12-14 at the ICONA in Avalon, NJ! The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is excited to again bring together current and future leaders within our industry. Click Here to view the Conference schedule. To register, visit the PPA Summer […]

The Biden Administration announced last week it is lifting the ban on summertime sales of gasoline containing 15 percent ethanol. The move is part of the administration’s larger plan to lower the price of gasoline ahead of the midterm elections. EMA has repeatedly warned both the EPA and the White House of the limitations involving […]

The USDA announced last week it will provide new funding under the Higher Blend Infrastructure Program (HBIP) to help gasoline retailers and distributors to upgrade infrastructure for the distribution of higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel. USDA is earmarking $5.6 million in grants to seven states designed to expand the retail availability of higher blend […]

Last week, the House and Senate left Washington, DC for a two-week recess period. While members are spending the weeks campaigning in the district, many are preparing for what the remainder of this year’s legislative session may hold. A priority for many Republicans and Democrats is passing the U.S. – China Innovation and Competition Act […]

Recently, U.S. Reps. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) introduced bipartisan legislation to address the current truck driver shortage in the United States by establishing a refundable income tax credit for qualified commercial truck drivers. “The Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act” would create a new refundable tax credit of up to […]

Last week, Rep. Andy Levin (D-MI) introduced “The Guaranteeing Overtime for Truckers Act” that would repeal the motor carrier overtime exemption in the Fair Labor Standards Act. The legislation aligns with DOT’s recent recommendation that Congress eliminate the exemption because “employers are not required to pay overtime to many truck drivers.” Click Here for the […]

On March 15, 2022, President Biden signed H.R. 2471 – the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2022. As a result, the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) now includes specific language that makes clear the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can, as of March 15, regulate tobacco products containing nicotine from any source. This […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — PennLive – Jan Murphy: F&M Poll Shows Mastriano Leading PA’s Packed Republican Gubernatorial Primary — PennLive – Charles Thompson: F&M Poll Shows Republican Governor’s Race Still Unsettled — Inquirer: Republican Sen. Corman Staying In Republican Race For Governor After Moving To Drop […]

The Pennsylvania Oil Marketers PAC (POMPAC), the political affiliate of the Pennsylvania Petroleum Association, has announced their formal endorsement of Jamie Barton’s state representative campaign for the 124th Legislative District. The political action committee represents 400+ petroleum and energy stakeholders throughout the Commonwealth. Jamie Barton currently serves on the Pennsylvania Petroleum Association Board of Directors […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in March. Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. N/A in March Retail Convenience Store Operator This […]

On April 7, the Department of Environmental Protection appealed the April 6 Commonwealth Court order blocking publication of the final regulation establishing a Carbon Pollution Reduction Program covering power plants consistent with the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative to the PA Supreme Court.             The question presented to the PA Supreme Court for review is “Did […]

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA) online portal for annual HAZMAT registration opens May 1, 2022. Registration renewals must be completed by July 1, 2022. Due to COVID-19 workplace restrictions and processing delays, marketers should register online this year and do so early. However, registrations submitted before May 1, […]

Just a reminder, responses are due April 15 to PPA’s member survey on Bioheat Adoption.  The purpose of the survey is to help the PPA better understand your position on current and future biodiesel (Bioheat®) heating fuel adoption strategies within the state of Pennsylvania.             Click Here to take the survey. Survey Background In January […]

As Congressional Democrats continue searching for ways to address high gas prices, the House Energy and Commerce Committee held a hearing with major oil company CEOs where Committee Democrats largely accused the companies of price-gouging. Oil company representatives pushed back against this narrative, arguing that prices are set by the global futures markets and that […]

Last week, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit delivered a victory for proponents of holding major oil companies liable for the effects of climate change. Cities and counties have instituted lawsuits all over the Nation like the one filed by the City of Baltimore, seeking to shift the burden of dealing with […]

Recently, EMA and the Family Business Coalition sent a letter to President Biden and the House and Senate Tax Committee chairs arguing against taxing unrealized capital gains. Taxing unrealized gains in any form, subjecting more families to the estate tax, changing step-up in basis, and removing important tools that family businesses use for succession planning […]

Visa Inc. and Mastercard Inc. are planning numerous changes to allow larger card transactions to help drivers cover their expenses at the pump. To minimize the damage of already excessively high swipe fees, many gas stations have a $125 limit for Visa transactions at the pump because the card company adds even more fees to […]

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating the safety of EV and hybrid vehicle batteries made by LG Energy Solution of South Korea. Since February 2020, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Stellantis and Volkswagen have issued recalls for as many as 138,000 vehicles with possible defects that could cause fires. General Motors has taken […]

In this time of heightened risk due to the war in Ukraine, CISA urges lowering the threshold for sharing information to raise our collective resilience to global cyber threats. Sharing information about cyber incidents allows CISA to fill critical information gaps, rapidly deploy resources and render assistance to victims suffering attacks, analyze incoming information from […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — Governor’s Race — AP: Republican Energy Promises Face Limits In PA Governor’s Race — Politics PA: Spending In PA Governor’s Race Tops $12.6 Million — PennLive – Jan Murphy: PA Governor’s Race Spending Total Nears $11 Million — Post-Gazette – Salena Zito: Republican Candidates For […]

On March 30, the House voted 126 to 72 to pass House Bill 637 (Struzzi-R-Indiana) designed to block the final DEP regulation establishing a Carbon Pollution Reduction Program covering power plants that’s consistent with the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.             The vote total is not enough to override a Governor’s veto, which happened to a […]

Legislation that would amend Pennsylvania liquor law to give smaller convenience stores fairer access to beer licenses has been introduced. Rep. Tim O’Neal (R-Washington) has sponsored House Bill 2467, strongly supported by PPA, that would create a new C-license system. This would eliminate the current requirement that a store have 30 seats for customers as […]

The PPA is excited to continue our monthly webinar series in April. Register below to take advantage of this complimentary membership benefit. — April 5 – 9:00 a.m.: State of the Union on Payments: How to Make Sure You are Receiving the Best Rates on Your Payment Acceptance.  Click Here to register. Things have changed […]

On March 31, President Biden announced several actions to improve energy security.  First, to increase oil supply and seek to reduce the price at the pump, President Biden announced that the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) will release 1 million gallons of oil per day for six months. Experts have pointed out that the SPR action […]

The Biden administration on Wednesday announced plans to spend roughly $3.2 billion to retrofit hundreds of thousands of homes in low-income communities in order to slash residential energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions.             Pennsylvania is due to receive $186 million in this round.  Read more here. The unprecedented 10-fold increase in annual funding for […]

According to the Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) Annual Energy Outlook 2022 (AEO2022), it projects that renewable diesel supply will exceed biodiesel supply in the near term. EIA projects that renewable diesel supply will increase to 130,000 barrels per day (b/d) in 2022 and 145,000 b/d in 2050, reflecting a significant increase in renewable diesel production […]

A trade group representing the major domestic and foreign automobile manufacturers filed a motion supporting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in a lawsuit currently before the District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals challenging the agency’s strict new limits on greenhouse gas emissions from automobiles. [NOTE: On Friday, the Biden Administration announced a new mileage […]

Forty-three lawmakers from both parties sent a letter on Wednesday to the federal Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requesting the agency investigate, and when appropriate, bring enforcement actions against economic discriminatory action that violates antitrust laws, including the FTC Act and the Robinson-Patman Act. “The antitrust laws were designed to protect against anticompetitive economic discrimination and […]

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA), an alliance of state and federal motor carrier enforcement authorities, holds its annual Operation Safe Driver Week during July 10-16. The Operation Safe Driving Program was created to improve the driving behaviors of CDL drivers and reduce the number of crashes involving commercial motor vehicles through educational and traffic […]

On Thursday, EMA joined a coalition letter in urging the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to lift its April 2020 non-enforcement directive that allowed food trucks to operate at Interstate rest areas. Click Here to read the letter. TAP HERE for all articles in April 4 EXPRESS Update

As the U.S. House Financial Services Committee reviews overdraft fees that impact consumers, the Merchants Payments Coalition (MPC) sent a letter to the Committee requesting that it review outrageous credit card swipe fees. EMA is a member of the Merchants Payments Coalition (MPC). MPC asked the committee to investigate “the broken and uncompetitive market in […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — Spotlight PA: PA Republicans Eye Greater Control Over Redistricting Thru Another Constitutional Amendment — AP: Republican Challenge To PA Congressional Districts Map Lawsuit Ends Quietly — MCall – Ford Turner: Redrawn Districts, Incumbent Battle Highlight Primary Lehigh […]

Registration is now open for Eastern Energy Expo which will return in-person this year May 22 – 25, 2022 at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT.             The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is a proud sponsor of this event. The discounted hotel room block is quickly filling up and will most likely reach full capacity prior to […]

On March 26, the final Environmental Quality Board regulations making changes to Stage I and II volatile organic compound emission controls on underground gasoline storage tanks were published in the PA Bulletin and are now effective. PA DEP will now begin its program to remove the vapor capturing apparatus now in place in most gasoline […]

With the high price of gasoline intensifying as a political issue in recent weeks, there is discussion in Harrisburg regarding proposals to lessen their impact on consumers. Senate President Jake Corman (also a candidate for the GOP nomination for Governor) has introduced Senate Bill 10. This legislation would reduce motor fuel taxes by 20 cents […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has released the annual minimum employee random drug and alcohol testing rates for 2022. The test rates are the minimum percentage of employees subject to U.S. DOT drug and alcohol requirements who must undergo a random test during the 2022 calendar year. The number of random drug tests […]

Last week, Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) more clearly articulated his vision of a scaled-back Build Back Better Act (BBB). This bill would not receive Republican support, so it would have to be passed through a process called reconciliation that would require the support of all 50 Senate Democrats. Senator Manchin and fellow moderate Senator Kyrsten […]

The Biden Administration is providing nearly $5 billion to help states create a network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations along designated corridors in the national highway system. Charging stations will not be placed on federal highways, but located at entrance ramps. The program is designed as part of the President’s goal to build 500,000 […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — Spotlight PA: What Makes A Voting District Map Fair? Here’s What We Learned During PA’s Redistricting Cycle — WHYY: PA Latinos Want More Lawmakers From Their Communities, New Voting District Maps Offer That Chance — WESA/AP: PA […]

Discussion of a gas tax suspension continues in Harrisburg as other states have enacted measures to provide breaks to motorists. On Friday, a thirty day gas tax moratorium took effect in Maryland. In Georgia, the Governor has signed into law a suspension of the collection of that state’s motor fuel taxes until the end of […]

The purpose of this survey is to help the PPA better understand your position on current and future biodiesel (Bioheat®) heating fuel adoption strategies within the state of Pennsylvania. Please limit one survey response per company.             Click Here to take the survey. Survey Background In January 2019 Governor Wolf signed an Executive Order to […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is a proud partner of the Eastern Energy Expo which will return in-person this year May 22 – 25, 2022 at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT. Attendee registration will be opening soon for the event. The discounted hotel room block is quickly filling up and will most likely reach full capacity […]

On Tuesday, President Biden signed the Fiscal Year 2022 government funding package into law. The law fully funds government agencies and will provide the funding for implementation of key Biden Administration priorities, including provisions from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.             Synthetic Nicotine The law also includes language that will allow the FDA to regulate synthetic […]

The Biden Administration opened the door to a possible summertime E15 waiver after a bipartisan group of lawmakers called on the White House to lift the ban of summer sales of gasoline with higher blends of ethanol. The White House confirmed that a move to year-round sales of E15 is “in the menu of options” […]

A landmark provision authored by Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Rob Portman (R-OH), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to enhance our nation’s ability to combat ongoing cybersecurity threats against critical infrastructure has been signed into law as a part of the government funding legislation that passed this week. […]

Last week, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released a joint Cybersecurity Advisory to warn organizations that Russian state-sponsored cyber actors have gained network access through exploitation of default multi-factor authentication (MFA) protocols and a known vulnerability. One of the most important security practices to reduce the […]

Congressional House Democrats spearheaded by leaders on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee are up in arms over the decision of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to replace its fleet with almost all gasoline powered trucks. Democrats have asked the USPS’s inspector general to investigate the decision, asserting that USPS violated legal environmental requirements. […]

Federated Insurance is offering complimentary risk management training for petroleum marketers on April 19-21, 2022. Through this valuable session, you will discover methods you can use immediately to help protect profits by reducing risk at your business. Companies that are the most successful at controlling losses and protecting profits have integrated risk management into their […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — AP: PA Supreme Court Upholds Voting District Maps For Senate, House — Spotlight PA: PA Supreme Court Rejects Challenges To State House, Senate Voting District Maps — PA Cap-Star: PA’s New House, Senate Voting District Maps OK’d […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is excited to again bring together current and future leaders within our industry at the Summer Leadership Conference. This year’s event will take place at the ICONA in Avalon, NJ. We hope to see you in June! ?Conference registration includes access to the June 12 welcome reception, business seminars, breakfast, and […]

In response to the spike in motor fuel prices over the last two weeks, there have been proposals by some policy makers to suspend the collection of gas taxes to provide relief to motorists. Governor Tom Wolf signed onto a letter with five other Governors urging Congress to enact legislation that would suspend collection of […]

Last week, as Russian aggression in Ukraine increased, President Biden announced a ban on imports of Russian oil, gas, and coal. In remarks to the country, President Biden said the White House knows that this will likely raise gas prices, blamed Russia for the increase, and committed to doing everything to reduce this trend, mentioning […]

PriMedia: Fuel Markets Are in Crisis. Here’s What You Should and Shouldn’t Say to Your Customers. Your customers are shocked, confused, enraged, struggling and looking to you for answers and assistance. Every consumer is different, and your customers’ emotions may run the gamut, but it’s most important right now that you at least have some […]

Seventy percent of Americans support the ban on Russian oil imports regardless of the rising fuel costs. However, some Americans are falsely directing blame to gas station owners for increased prices at the pump. Rob Underwood, President of the Energy Marketers of America (EMA), said, “blaming gas station owners for high gas prices is nonsense. […]

A recent survey published by the National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC) outlines the extent of the CDL driver shortage problem as it applies to the transportation of petroleum products. According to the survey, over a two-year period beginning in May 2019, the industry experienced a 41.6 percent reduction in petroleum driver applicants, along with a […]

The Federation of Tax Administrators, an association of all 50 state and territorial tax authorities, recently published its annual list of state motor fuel excise taxes updated to January 2022. In addition to listing state motor fuel excise taxes for gasoline, diesel fuel and gasohol, the list includes notations on the various surcharges, fees, sales […]

Last week, Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) released a policy outline detailing how the U.S. can reset its energy and climate policy and create a global Russia-free energy future. Cassidy, a member of the Senate Energy and Finance Committees, called for an Energy Operation Warp Speed to reestablish America’s energy dominance. “The world will be […]

Women In Energy is now accepting nominations for two annual awards– the 5th Annual Woman of the Year Award and the 4th Annual Women In Energy Mentorship Award. Woman Of The Year Each year, Women in Energy recognizes an outstanding woman in the energy field. We invite industry professionals to submit nominations. The award recipient […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — AP: Divided PA Supreme Court Picks New Congressional Voting Districts Map — PA Cap-Star: PA’s New Congressional Voting Districts Map Is Reflective Of State’s Voters, PA Supreme Court Justices Argued — Spotlight PA: 4 Reasons The PA […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in February. Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. — Friday Gas and Oil (Weedville, PA): Retail […]

There are two active FMCSA driver hours of service (HOS) waivers that impact our membership. The waiver for heating fuels is set to expire on March 8, 2022. The waiver that covers most transportation fuels has recently been extended through May 31, 2022. More information on the two waivers can be found below. Heating Fuels […]

The PPA staff is in the process of compiling information for this year’s membership directory. To ensure accuracy of your directory information, please check your listing in all sections of the current directory which can be found here. Please email Jessica Reeder at jreeder@papetroleum.org or call (717) 939-1781, ext. 104, to confirm your company information […]

On Monday, the Energy Marketers of America (EMA) asked the federal appeals court in Washington, D.C. to review the Environmental Protection Agency’s December 2021 final rule that increases the stringency of greenhouse gas emissions for model year 2023-2026 cars and light-duty vehicles by significant percentages. EPA is ostensibly using EPA’s tailpipe emissions standards to phase […]

The U.S. Department of Transportation published a notice of proposed rulemaking allowing oral fluid drug testing for CDL drivers and other HAZMAT employees. According to the DOT, the addition of oral fluid drug testing will help combat employee cheating on urine drug tests and provide a more economical, less intrusive means of achieving the safety […]

Last week, EMA submitted more detailed comments in opposition to the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Tentative Interim Amendment (TIA) regulating the placement of EV charging stations at gas stations. The setback requirements in the proposed standard are so restrictive that it could prevent the installation of EV chargers at most existing retail gas stations. […]

In response to the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, EMA sent a letter to President Biden seeking greater energy independence. The letter urges the President to reconsider his position regarding the cancellation of the Keystone XL Pipeline (KXL). KXL is important for American fuel independence, and even more so now with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. KXL […]

Last week, President Joe Biden delivered his first State of the Union address. He spent the first twelve minutes pledging America’s support for Ukraine, which received strong bipartisan applause. In addressing energy prices, which have spiked due to Russia’s invasion, President Biden announced that the U.S. and allies would release a combined 60 million barrels […]

Recently, the U.S. Senate passed the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act of 2021 (H.R. 4445). The bill passed the House last month and the President is expected to sign it into law. The legislation was introduced by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and by Reps. Morgan Griffith (R-VA) […]

Last week, the Merchants Payments Coalition (MPC), of which EMA is a member, announced an advertising campaign to educate Congress and other policymakers on high “swipe” fees credit card networks and big banks charge merchants to process transactions and the impact the fees have on consumers, small businesses and the U.S. economy. The campaign comes […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — Spotlight PA: A Complete Guide To PA’s Redistricting Court Challenges — AP: U.S. Supreme Court Asked To Intervene In PA Congressional Voting Districts Case — WHYY: Will U.S. Supreme Court Wade Into The Battle Over PA Congressional […]

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On February 25, Senate Republicans filed a motion with Commonwealth Court to intervene in opposition to the DEP lawsuit against the Legislative Reference Bureau to publish the final Carbon Pollution Reduction regulations covering power plants consistent with the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. The motion was filed by Senate President Pro Tempore Jake Corman (R-Centre), Senate […]

Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-Bedford), Senator Joe Pittman (R-Indiana) and Senator Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming) announced their intent to introduce a resolution urging President Biden to restart the Keystone XL pipeline. This week, oil prices soared over $100 per barrel and currently, the United States imports over 800,000 barrels of oil per day from Russia. The […]

EPCRA TIER II forms must be submitted no later than March 1, 2022. The Emergency Preparedness and Community Right to Know Act (EPCRA) of 1986 was created to help communities plan for chemical emergencies. All facilities that store over 10,000 pounds of hazardous chemicals (including petroleum products) onsite at any point during the previous calendar […]

Last week, Washington quickly turned its focus towards Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which sent oil prices soaring over $100/barrel. Retaliatory sanctions announced by President Biden on Thursday did not target Russia’s energy sector, reportedly at the request of European allies, including Germany and Italy, who are worried about potential effects on their own economies. More […]

Last week, EMA’s Motor Fuels Committee Chair Glenn Hasken, chief operating officer and vice president of Molo Companies, represented EMA during a retailer’s roundtable on the future of liquid fuels at the National Ethanol Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana. Participating alongside Mr. Hasken were Eric Fobes, Head Trader, Ethanol, Pilot Company, SIGMA, NATSO, and Doug […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — AP: PA Supreme Court Picks New Map Of Congressional Voting Districts — PennLive: New Congressional Districts Map Has Keller, Meuser Vying For Same Seat — Inquirer: Is New Congressional Districts Map Better For Democrats or Republicans?  We […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is excited to again bring together current and future leaders within our industry at the 2022 PPA Summer Leadership Conference on June 13-14 at the ICONA in Avalon, NJ. The theme of the 2022 leadership conference will be achieving high performance leadership. Two major trends that have emerged in the past […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is pleased to share that one of our members, Jamie Barton, has announced a campaign to pursue the Republican nomination for a seat in the state House. Jamie is the Vice President of Jack Rich, Inc. and is a long time PPA member who currently serves on the PPA Board of […]

Thursday, Congress passed a Continuing Resolution extending government funding until March 11, 2022, giving Congress only a few weeks to resolve negotiations. As a reminder, a Continuing Resolution continues existing government funding at Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 levels. It is critical that Congress pass an FY 2022 package to fully fund portions of the Bipartisan […]

On Wednesday, the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee held a hearing focused on the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). This was the first EPW hearing on the RFS since 2016 and comes as the EPA proposes to increase biofuel blending requirements. During the hearing, Senators expressed frustration over the Biden Administration’s handling of the […]

The director of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) told the U.S. Senate Finance Committee at a hearing on IRS customer complaints this week that in fiscal year 2021, the IRS paid $3.27 billion dollars in interest payments to taxpayers due to delayed processing of refund claims. The amount of interest paid by the IRS is […]

The Biden administration is preparing to reinstate California’s authority to set auto emissions rules that are more stringent than federal standards. California’s regulatory authority over mobile emissions was rescinded by the Trump Administration in 2019. Restoration of regulatory authority over automobile emissions represents a return of California’s influence on the nation’s climate and clean air […]

The Berks-Schuylkill Oil Heat Association donated a total contribution of $6,100 to both the Berks and Schuylkill County Salvation Army on February 17 with each Corps receiving half of the total donation. Since 2006, this is the second largest annual donation BSOHA has presented to the Salvation Army. The BSOHA annual charitable contribution has directly […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House, Congressional — AP: House Republican Leader Asks PA Supreme Court To Throw Out House Voting District Map — PA Cap-Star: House Republicans Ask Court To Toss House Voting District Map, Reuse Current Lines In 2022 — MCall –  Ford […]

On February 10, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced Pennsylvania will receive the first $25.3 million from an estimated $171.5 million over the next five years to invest in electric vehicle charging stations along previously designated Alternative Fuel Corridors and Interstate lookalikes. The funding is from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. PennDOT and DEP – […]

There was a significant development this past week in regard to the RGGI. The House Appropriations Committee added an amendment to House Bill 637 that would provide $250 million for carbon capture technology and other control measures to address emissions from coal-fired power plants. This bill, which is being held in the Committee to provide […]

Congress is expected to pass a Continuing Resolution (CR) extending government funding through March 11. Meanwhile, it appears both sides have reached a baseline agreement to finalize a full government funding package so that many of the programs authorized in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law can be fully funded. As of now, government funding expires on […]

EMA is receiving reports from energy marketers that they are once again experiencing delays in the processing of federal motor fuel excise tax (FET) ultimate vendor claims for sales of clear, tax excluded diesel fuel to state and local governments. In response, EMA sent a letter this week to IRS Commissioner Charles P. Rettig expressing […]

Last Wednesday, U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) introduced legislation that would suspend the 18.3 cpg federal excise tax on gasoline and 0.1 cpg leaking underground trust fund (LUST) tax through the end of 2022. “The Gas Prices Relief Act,” S. 3609, could prove popular during an election year. S. 3609 would […]

Races in Pennsylvania, Arizona, Georgia and Florida will determine the future of emissions reduction pledges and will establish key administrators within their state energy offices and utility regulators, according to Energy News Network. The governors will influence how to use the funding in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which includes money for electric vehicle […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — PA’s Role In Assault On U.S. Capitol — LancasterOnline: Ex-Ephrata Lawyers’ Statement He Would Kill Democratic U.S. Senators Allowed By Judge — ScrantonT: Lackawanna County Man Charged With Crimes Related To Assault On U.S. Capitol Rejects Plea Deal, Plans For Trial — New Voting Districts […]

On February 3, the Associated Press reported the Department of Environmental Protection filed a lawsuit in Commonwealth Court to compel the Legislative Reference Bureau to publish the final RGGI Carbon Pollution Reduction Regulations covering power plants in the PA Bulletin so they can become effective.             The lawsuit is a follow-up to Gov. Wolf’s January […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in January.  Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. N/A in January Retail Convenience Store Operator This […]

The PPA Political Action Committee would like to recognize POMPAC contributions from the following individuals in January: — Platinum Supporter: James Barber and Jason Flohr — Gold Supporter: N/A — Silver Supporter: Quincy Longacre*, Steve Oehlert*, Ted Harris*, and Timothy Naylor — Bronze Supporter: Mark Smith* — Supporter: Andrew Myers and David Karl  *Denotes the […]

Monday, February 7, 2022, is the compliance date for the FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations, established in 49 CFR part 380 subparts F and G. The ELDT regulations include requirements for training providers, CDL applicants, and State Driver Licensing Agencies. Visit the Training Provider Registry for more information and make sure you are ready […]

FMCSA has just extended the Regional Emergency Declaration waiver which provides motor carriers and drivers with direct assistance in supporting emergency relief efforts transporting heating fuel, including propane, natural gas, and heating oil, into the Affected States with emergency relief from 49 CFR § 395.3, maximum driving time for property-carrying vehicles. This waiver was originally […]

Last  week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it would soon issue regulations codifying its plan announced in 2021 to ban menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars. In Congress, the House focused on passing the US COMPETES Act, legislation to support US research and development and supply chain security to compete with China. The other […]

Friday, EMA sent comments to the EPA on its proposed ethanol blending mandates for 2020-2022 urging EPA to fully consider the impact the RFS places on small business energy marketers when setting the upcoming annual RVOs for 2020, 2021 and 2022. EMA said, “If ethanol volumes continue to rise as proposed in 2022, obligated parties […]

Last week, House Democrats introduced the “COVID-19 Price Gouging Prevention Act” (H.R.675) that outlaws “price gouging” during a “public health emergency” declared under federal law. Price gouging is defined as opportunistic behavior by sellers who take advantage of an emergency to raise prices of goods “unreasonably” to “unconscionably excessive” levels. All goods are covered by […]

Last fall, Congress approved, and the President signed into law, a $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Law– the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The IIJA provides $7.5 billion in funding for states to deploy an Electric Vehicle Formula Program (EV Charging Program) with a $2.5 billion set aside for a competitive grant program to build […]

U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced a bill to help address supply chain shortages and increase the number of truck drivers transporting goods in the U.S. Their bill, the Licensing Individual Commercial Exam-takers Now Safely and Efficiently (LICENSE) Act, would streamline burdensome licensing regulations by making permanent several waivers that the […]

On February 3, the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) announced the appointment of Michael Devine as incoming President following the retirement of current President John Huber effective March 1, 2022. Devine comes to NORA after having served as Vice President of Sales & Business Development for World Energy. As part of the Senior Management Team, […]

Industry Association Rebrands to Reflect Diversity of Fuels, Modern Approach The National Biodiesel Board today unveiled its new name and new brand, Clean Fuels Alliance America, during the opening session of the 2022 National Biodiesel Conference & Expo. The transformation to Clean Fuels helps further the organization’s position as a proven, innovative part of America’s […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — 2022 Priorities — Spotlight PA: Gov. Wolf’s Final Budget Address Will Seek To Cement His Legacy — AP: What To Watch For In Gov. Wolf’s Budget Proposal — Gov. Wolf Announces $1.7 Billion Spending Plan For Federal American Rescue Plan Money — PennLive – Jan […]

The Energy Choice legislation (House Bill 1947) passed the state House this past week by a vote of 118-83. That is significantly short of the 134 votes needed to override a veto by the Governor who previously indicated that he would take that action for the current version of the bill.             The bill preempts […]

On January 26, the Independent Regulatory Review Commission unanimously approved final Environmental Quality Board regulations establishing the process for decommissioning Stage II VOC emission controls at service stations. The DEP regulation applies to the five-county Philadelphia area– Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties– and the seven- county Pittsburgh area–  Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, […]

EMA has received an increasing number of calls from CDL drivers who are experiencing delays in processing security background checks required for hazardous material endorsements (HME). EMA reached out to TSA to inquire whether the delays are significant enough to warrant a temporary waiver of the Security Threat Assessment (STA) similar to the waiver granted […]

On January 29, 2022 the final rulemaking was published in the PA Bulletin to officially delete Chapter 55 of PA Code 67. This will now eliminate the need for trucks that operate at weights greater than 5,000 pounds to display a registration class sticker and replace a registration class sticker when stolen, damaged or destroyed. […]

Employers of CDL drivers are required to conduct an annual drug and alcohol violation query in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse for each CDL driver they employ. Employers are only required to make a “limited query” to check for drug and alcohol violations for these drivers. Only if a violation is found must the […]

OSHA has withdrawn its COVID-19 vaccination and testing emergency temporary standard (ETS) for employers with 100 or more employees. The withdrawal went into effect Wednesday. The agency also has filed a motion with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, asking the appeals court to dismiss the pending, consolidated legal challenges to the […]

EMA submitted a “no” vote on a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Temporary Interim Standard (TIA) regulating the placement of EV charging stations at motor fuel dispensing stations. The setback requirements in the proposed standard are so restrictive that it could prevent the installation of EV chargers at most existing retail gasoline stations. The proposed […]

After consideration beginning in April 2021, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is moving forward with plans to ban menthol cigarettes. The FDA announced on January 28 that it would issue two proposed rules, one prohibiting menthol as a characterizing flavor in cigarettes and another prohibiting all characterizing flavors (including menthol) in cigars—by spring. The […]

The Fuel Institute released a new report titled Life Cycle Analysis Comparison – Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles. The report provides an evaluation of the life-cycle costs and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEV), hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), and battery electric vehicles (BEV). The GHG life cycle includes vehicle manufacturing, […]

A new analysis from McKinsey & Co. estimates that the investment, in new infrastructure and systems, needed to meet international climate goals could be $9.2 trillion a year annually through 2050. That’s at least $3.5 trillion more a year than the world is currently laying out for both low-carbon and fossil-fuel infrastructure and changes in […]

The Internal Revenue Service is warning taxpayers to expect significant delays in the processing of tax returns during 2022 according to a new report to Congress by the IRS’s Taxpayer Advocate. The warning applies to all filings, including those related to federal motor fuel excise tax (FET) and biodiesel blender claims. Energy marketers have been […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — 2022 Priorities — WITF: Republican Budget Chiefs Want PA’s Plethora Of Pandemic-Era Cash Used ‘Judiciously’ — Governor’s Budget Address Feb. 8 — PA’s Role In Assault On U.S. Capitol — AP: U.S. House Committee Investigating Assault On U.S. Capitol Subpoenas 2 Fake 2020 Republican Electors […]

PPA encourages you to participate in a committee this year. Your voice will help shape the direction of the association on important topics and initiatives. PPA Committees — Convention Committee: Assist the association in coordinating the various conferences that take place throughout the year as well as the annual membership meeting. The committee will provide […]

At the January 20 meeting of DEP’s Drive Electric Pennsylvania Coalition, a presentation was made by PennDOT regarding the plan being developed by the Commonwealth to distribute the several hundred million dollars coming to the state for electric vehicle infrastructure rebates pursuant to the recently enacted federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The priority of these grants […]

On January 24, the House Liquor Control Committee will conduct a public hearing on House Bill 2272 sponsored by Rep. Natalie Mihalek (R-Allegheny) that seeks to abolish the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Commission by amending the state constitution. If passed by the General Assembly in two separate legislative years, the question would then go on the […]

Lawmakers departed Washington Friday with a recess scheduled for this week and Democrats reeling from a lack of progress on voting rights and filibuster reform. As for the latest on the stalled Build Back Better (BBB) Act – Democrats’ $1.75 trillion climate change, tax, health care, and education package – President Biden said that Congress […]

The FMCSA issued a final rule that allows certain CDL drivers with otherwise disqualifying visual acuity and field of vision conditions the chance to maintain their CDL medical qualification under a new alternative vision standard. Currently, drivers with visual acuity and field of vision deficiencies are prohibited from driving CMVs in interstate commerce unless they […]

The Emergency Preparedness and Community Right to Know Act (EPCRA) of 1986 was created to help communities plan for chemical emergencies. EPCRA requires facilities to report each year on the storage, use and release of hazardous chemicals (including petroleum products) during the previous calendar year. Typically, Tier II reports are filed with the state or […]

On January 13, 2022 Visa and Mastercard reminded retailers that the plan that was originally set for 2020 but delayed because of the pandemic, will take place this April – an increase of 0.5 percent in retailer fees. Bloomberg estimates that when Visa and Mastercard increase their fees by 0.5 percent, expect the merchant fees […]

Remember to order your household’s 4 free Covid tests by going to: COVIDtests.gov – Free at-home COVID-19 tests. Tests will start shipping the week of January 24. To place an order, all you need is your name and residential address. No ID, credit card, or health insurance information is required.  You may also share your […]

Last week, Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) and Rep. Jammal Bowman (D-NY) introduced the “Heating and Cooling Relief Act,” which would increase LIHEAP funding to $40 billion per year through 2031 and expand eligibility from 150 percent of the poverty level to 250 percent. Unfortunately, the bill would allow states to use approximately one-third of LIHEAP […]

On Tuesday, ExxonMobil announced its “ambition” to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions for operated assets by 2050, backed by a comprehensive approach to develop detailed emission-reduction roadmaps for major facilities and assets. Click Here to read the Reuters article. TAP HERE for all articles in January 24 EXPRESS Update

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — 2022 Priorities — Gov. Wolf Highlights Strong Financial Position Of Commonwealth Going Into Next Budget  [He forgot to thank Biden & Congress for billions in federal aid]  — PA Cap-Star: Wolf Touts Multi-Billion State Surplus, But Projections Depict Gloomy Fiscal Future — TribLive: Wolf Joins […]

On January 10, Gov. Tom Wolf vetoed and disapproved Senate Concurrent Regulatory Review Resolution 1, which would have disabled the Commonwealth’s opportunity to enter the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) and effectively achieve climate goals and reduce carbon emissions. The concurrent resolution is also procedurally defective, as the General Assembly failed to adopt it within […]

On January 13, in a 6 to 3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Biden administration from enforcing the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) COVID 19 vaccine or test requirements. The ruling effectively kills the vaccine or test rule for private employers. The OSHA rule required workers at businesses with more than […]

The Internal Revenue Service is warning taxpayers to expect significant delays in the processing of tax returns during 2022 according to a new report to Congress by the IRS’s Taxpayer Advocate. The warning applies to all filings including those related to federal motor fuel excise tax (FET) and biodiesel blender claims. Energy marketers have been […]

Last week, the U.S. House Agriculture Committee held a hearing discussing the implications of electric vehicle (EV) investments for rural America. Representatives from the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), Southern Company, General Motors (GM), Sheetz, and others participated. Lawmakers broadly argued that consumers – not government – should drive EV market incentives and noted the importance […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) last week announced calendar year 2022 minimum random drug and alcohol testing rates for CDL drivers and other hazardous material employees. The test rates are the minimum percentage of employees subject to U.S. DOT drug and alcohol requirements who must undergo a random test during the 2022 calendar […]

Last week EMA joined other organizations in a letter strongly supporting the apprenticeship pilot program contained in section 23022 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), and urging the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) efforts to implement the program in a timely manner. However, we have concerns with requirements submitted by FMCSA to […]

Last week the U.S. Supreme Court denied a request to hear an appeal brought by the ethanol industry to allow the year-round sale of E15 gasoline blends. The Court’s action effectively ends the long running fight by the ethanol industry to permit year-round sales of E15 absent an amendment to the language of the Clean […]

EMA joined other business trade groups in a letter urging Congress and the Administration to end efforts to pass the multi-trillion-dollar tax increase included in the Build Back Better (BBB) bill and focus instead on the challenges confronting American families and businesses today – rising prices, labor shortages, and ongoing supply chain constraints. $500 billion […]

Because In Politics Everything Is Connected To Everything Else– — 2022 Priorities — TribLive Guest Essay: Final Year Will Focus On Issues That Matter Most – Gov. Wolf — MCall Guest Essay: How We Helped Stabilize PA’s Economy During Pandemic – Sen. Browne (R) — PA’s Role In Jan. 6 Assault On U.S. Capitol — […]

Save the date for 2022 PPA conferences and events.  More details will be released in the upcoming months– — May 22-25: Eastern Energy Expo.  Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT — June 13-14: PPA Summer Leadership Conference. ICONA Avalon, Avalon, NJ — October 11: PPA & Women In Energy Golf Outing.  Hershey Country Club, Hershey — October […]

On January 7, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued a regional driver hours of service (HOS) waiver for heating oil, propane and natural gas.  According to the FMCSA, the emergency is in response to winter storms and high demand resulting in decreased availability of heating fuel, including propane, natural gas, and heating oil, […]

PPA is excited to announce the return of our monthly webinar series! Here’s what’s on tap so far–. — February 1 – 9:00 a.m.: New FMCSA Requirements for CDL Entry-Level Drivers. This FMCSA change becomes effective February 7, 2022 and will impact all PPA members who transport fuel. — March 1 – 9:00 a.m.: Understanding […]

PennDOT, the PA Turnpike and the State Police are now actively using an Automated Highway Work Zone Speed Enforcement Program in order to improve worker safety and driver behaviors in highway work areas. Since 2020, they have set up automatic equipment in selected work zones to photograph license plates of vehicles going in excess of […]

The 2021 posting cycle for OSHA’s workplace injury and illness reporting rule begins on February 1, 2022 and runs through April 30. The OSHA injury and illness recording and posting requirements apply to most establishments (workplaces) with more than 10 employees. However, there are exemptions from recordkeeping for certain establishments such as gasoline stations. OSHA […]

Last week, EMA President Rob Underwood provided comments during an EPA public hearing regarding the proposed ethanol blending mandates for 2020-2022. Rob urged the EPA to fully consider the impact the RFS places on small business energy marketers when setting the upcoming annual RVOs for 2020, 2021 and 2022. “If ethanol volumes continue to rise […]

OSHA released a final emergency temporary standard (ETS) in November requiring employee COVID-19 vaccination or weekly testing at all employers with 100 or more employees. The ETS was stayed by a federal court last month which delayed the original December 5, 2021 compliance deadline. On Dec. 17, the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals lifted […]

The Senate made no progress on the Build Back Better Act (BBB) in the first week back in session following Senator Manchin’s (D-WV) announcement that he could not support the current plan. While Senator Manchin affirmed that he agreed with Democratic leaders and the White House on certain aspects of the bill, including much of […]

— 2021 Year In Review — PennLive – Charles Thompson: 20 Pennsylvanians To Watch In 2022 — PA’s Role In Jan. 6 Assault On U.S. Capitol — Spotlight PA: Jan. 6 Assault On U.S. Capitol: A Complete Guide To What We Know About Pennsylvania’s Role — PA Cap-Star: Assault On U.S. Capitol Lays Bare PA […]

Click Here for a complete recap of advocacy and education activities. As the year comes to an end, we would like to express what an honor and privilege it is to represent the 400+ member companies who support our association. Your membership has a direct impact on our ability to advocate, educate, and inform on […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in December. Active Members:  Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. — N/A in December Retail Convenience Store Operator: […]

— 2021 Year In Review — TribLive: Looking Ahead To 2022: Pandemic Continues, Campaigns Heat Up, New Pittsburgh Mayor And More — PA Cap-Star: Top 5 Stories Of 2021 – PA Republican Cong. Kelly Came Closer Than You Think To Stealing The Election For Former President — WHYY: The Top Destination For Biden During His […]

PPA has several exciting advertising opportunities for members in 2022-23– Membership Directory             Please consider placing an advertisement in the 2022 – 2023 PPA membership directory. Our membership directory (both print and digital) is utilized by 400+ petroleum and energy professionals. Most of the individuals who receive the PPA membership directory are owners or key […]

Here’s a quick update on the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse–             Annual Queries – Are You Up-To-Date? Employers of CDL drivers must conduct a query in the Clearinghouse at least once per year for each CDL driver they employ (for more details on employer requirements, see 49 CFR?382.701). A limited query satisfies the annual […]

New York State took a major step forward on the path to net-zero emissions, when Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill phasing in a requirement for all heating oil sold in state to contain 20 percent biodiesel. Once fully implemented, the new law will reduce New York’s annual petroleum diesel consumption by approximately two hundred […]

Thursday, EMA sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation to extend the compliance deadline for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule. The ELDT rule establishes new knowledge and behind the wheel testing for new applicants who wish to obtain a CDL license for the first time […]

OSHA released a final emergency temporary standard (ETS) in November requiring employee COVID-19 vaccination or weekly testing at all employers with 100 or more employees. The ETS was stayed by a federal court last month which delayed the original December 5, 2021 compliance deadline. On Dec. 17, the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals lifted […]

The U.S. Department of Energy released a new rule on Tuesday that revokes a rule finalized during the Trump Administration. Essentially, the Trump rule barred the Department of Energy from using different techniques in appliance designs to increase efficiency, such as venting changes. As a result, DOE could not proceed with a rulemaking to increase […]

In a move that surprised many in the Democratic party, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) said he could not support the current form of the Build Back Better Act (BBB) – President Biden’s partisan $1.75 trillion climate change, healthcare, and education package. The House passed the BBB in November on partisan lines, while the legislation […]

As a service, EMA published Federal motor fuel excise tax rates that include the 1/10th cpg non-refundable LUST tax imposed on both dyed and clear liquid fuel. There is no refund of the LUST tax. Tax exempt parties are required to pay the .001 cpg.             Click Here for a table of 2022 Federal Motor […]

On Monday, the Biden Administration released its final Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standards (CAFE) to significantly tighten light truck and car fuel efficiency. The new efficiency standards will result in a 40-mpg requirement for light trucks and cars by 2026. By comparison, the Trump era CAFE standards required a 32-mpg efficiency requirement by 2026. Under […]

— New Voting Districts – Senate, House — Inquirer: Reapportionment Chair Mark Nordenberg On Drawing New Voting Districts, Republican Attacks And What Comes Next — Spotlight PA: PA Redistricting Maps: Search How To See Your Old, New Voting Districts — AP: PA Secretary Of State Issues Warnings To Lawmakers  Over Voting District Map Delays Affecting […]

On December 15, the House voted 130-70 to adopt a concurrent resolution to block final regulations limiting carbon dioxide pollution from power plants consistent with the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.             However, the vote margin was not enough to achieve the two-thirds vote needed to override Gov. Wolf’s expected veto of the resolution.             That […]

The state House this past week advanced House Bill 1947 (O’Neal-R-Washington) that would preempt municipalities from enacting local ordinances that would regulate or prohibit energy use in their jurisdictions. The legislation, also known as the Ban the Ban bill, was introduced in the House by Representative Tim O’Neal (R-Washington) in October. Last week the bill […]

PPA has been working on a legislative proposal that would give convenience store operators easier access to acquire licenses to sell beer. Rep. Tim O’Neal (R-Washington) has drafted a bill that would create a C Store License category in the Liquor Code. This past week, he officially circulated a co-sponsorship memo to all members of […]

Earlier this month, Rep Jeff Wheeland (R-Lycoming ) introduced legislation that would establish in state law the legality of skill games. House Bill 2133 would create licensee and tax requirements for the operation of the games. Skill games currently have been operating in the state because of two county court decisions which held that skill […]

The Biden Administration on Thursday announced a comprehensive plan to address the nationwide shortage of qualified CDL drivers. The Action Plan to Strengthen America’s Trucking Workforce takes several steps to speed up the CDL licensing process and recruit new drivers into the profession. The plan is part of a wider effort by the administration to […]

President Biden and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) acknowledged last week that the Senate does not have the votes to approve the House-passed $1.75 trillion Build Back Better Act (BBB) before Christmas. Then, Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) told Fox News on Sunday morning that after five-and-half months of negotiations among Democrats in which he […]

On December 13, the Biden Administration released a federal strategy to build 500,000 electric vehicle charging stations across the country with the goal of bringing down the cost of electric vehicle ownership.             The funding comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which sets aside $5 billion for states to build the charging stations and provides […]

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued guidance last week clarifying that fee paid EV charging stations cannot be located within the interstate right of way (ROW), including rest areas. This is good news for energy marketers who have long fought against commercialization of rest areas. Commercialized rest areas siphon customers away from local gas stations […]

On December 16, NACS reported the California Air Resources Board has outlined a timeline for phasing out gasoline vehicle sales by 2035. According to the plan, zero-emission would make up 34 percent of sales in 2027, 43 percent in 2028, 51 percent in 2029, 61 percent  in 2030, 76 percent in 2031, 82 percent in […]

The Fuels Institute has recently completed an analysis of the life cycle carbon emissions for electric and combustion vehicles. The “Life Cycle Analysis Comparison – Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles,” report, due to be released in January 2022, looks at the carbon emissions from each phase in the life cycle of battery electric vehicles […]

Here are the Top 10 Stories From Harrisburg last week– — New Voting Districts – Senate, House — PA Cap-Star: 2022 PA Incumbent Retirement And Primary Tracker — PA Cap-Star: Reapportionment Panel Approves New Senate, House Voting District Maps That Leaves Incumbents In The Lurch — TribLive Editorial: Republicans Shouldn’t Overreact To New Proposed Senate, […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association Board of Directors elected the following individuals to serve in the top leadership positions for the organization. The elections took place at the December 1, 2021 Board of Directors meeting held at the Hilton Harrisburg. The three (3) year officer terms will become effective on January 1, 2022 and expire on […]

The Department of Revenue has published a notice in the December 11 PA Bulletin announcing the Oil Company Franchise Tax Rate for 2022. For comparison purposes, Click Here for the PA Bulletin notice announcing the Oil Company Franchise Tax Rate for 2021. Click Here to compare the rate in previous years. TAP HERE for all […]

EMA put together a summary of Federal motor fuel excise tax rates that include the 1/10th cpg non-refundable LUST tax imposed on both dyed and clear liquid fuel. EMA noted there is no refund of the LUST tax. Tax exempt parties are required to pay the .001 cpg. Click Here to read the summary. TAP […]

Last week the Office of Attorney General approved the final DEP regulation allowing Pennsylvania to participate in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative to reduce carbon pollution from power plants, in spite of comments raising serious concerns about the regulation by Josh Shapiro.             His Office said its review for “form and legality” prevents it from […]

On Tuesday, U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced USDA intends to make up to $100 million available in new funds for grants for biofuels infrastructure, such as blender pumps which ensure biofuels have greater availability in the retail market.  The funding will provide grants to refueling and distribution facilities for cost of installation, […]

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued proposed RFS annual blending mandates this week that significantly lower renewable fuel (ethanol) volumes for 2021. The EPA is proposing to set the 2021 renewable fuel blending mandate at 13.3 billion gallons. Also, in an unprecedented move, the agency is proposing to retroactively reduce the 2020 renewable fuel (ethanol) […]

Last week, the U.S. Senate passed a Congressional Review Act to formally disapprove of President Biden’s vaccine mandate on private employers. The vote was 52-48, with Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Jon Tester (D-MT) joining all 50 Senate Republicans. The Senate legislation is largely symbolic as it is highly unlikely to pass the House. The […]

Biofuel proponents and several fuel marketer groups want more information from Congress on a proposed tax credit for sustainable aviation fuel. In a letter Thursday, the groups asked Congressional leaders to exclude fuels made by co-processing biomass with petroleum at oil refineries from the Sustainable Aviation fuel Credit. The group argues that doing so would […]

The U.S. Department of Justice last week filed a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court urging the Court to deny a request by ethanol producers to review a decision by a lower federal court earlier this year vacating EPA rule allowing for the year-round sale of E15. The controversial EPA rule issued in 2019, extended […]

The Edison Electric Institute (EEI) is forming the National Electric Highway Coalition which currently consists of 51 investor-owned electric companies, one electric cooperative and the Tennessee Valley Authority. The coalition aims to provide electric vehicle (EV) fast charging ports along major U.S. travel corridors by the end of 2023. Click Here for the story. TAP […]

Here are the Top 10 Stories From Harrisburg last week– — Drawing New Voting Districts — NextPittsburgh: House Expected To Vote On Proposed PA Congressional Redistricting Map Monday — Spotlight PA: See How The Proposed PA Congressional Voting District Map Scores In Every Key Area — AP: Lawmakers To Take First Steps Toward New Congressional […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the association in November.  Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores. — Button Oil Company (Mountain Top, PA) — […]

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is extending a number of expiring nationwide regulatory waivers authorized under the March 13, 2020 presidential declaration of national emergency and the January 31, 2020 public health emergency issued in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Several of the extended regulatory waivers are beneficial to energy marketers and […]

Thursday, Congress reached an agreement to continue government funding at fiscal year 2021 levels through February 18, 2022.             No Senate Budget Action Meanwhile, the Senate has yet to focus in earnest on the House-passed Build Back Better Act (BBB) – President’s Biden’s $1.75 trillion tax-and-spend package covering the Administration’s priority issues including climate change, […]

According to Reuters, the U.S. EPA plans to publish its long awaited proposed Renewable Fuels Standard in a matter of days. The EPA is expected to reduce blending mandates for 2020 to 17.1 billion gallons and 18.6 billion gallons for 2021. The EPA delayed decisions on 2021 blending obligations by more than a year and […]

The recently enacted Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests in the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure through a National Electric Vehicle Formula Program (EV Charging Program). The law provides funding to States to strategically deploy EV charging infrastructure and to establish an interconnected network to facilitate data collection, access, and reliability. Specifically, funds from the […]

The Fuels Institute’s Diesel Fuel Quality Council released the final report on the Diesel Fuel Sampling Study. The study sampled diesel fuel from 190 nozzles and 134 tanks at 119 retail and 15 non-retail fueling facilities throughout the US. Samples were analyzed for a variety of parameters important to fuel quality. T he report provides […]

PPA regrets to inform you of the passing of Kenneth E. Jones, President of the Reed Oil Company in New Castle, on November 2 at the age of 70.             Ken proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era.             The things that mattered the most to Ken […]

Columbus, Ohio-based Husky Energy announced the availability of co-op and internship opportunities in Ohio and Wisconsin for the Spring, Summer and Fall Semesters in 2022.             The co-op/intern positions offer competitive wages, relocation assistance and the opportunity to work alongside industry leading professionals.             Preference will be given to students in the third or fourth […]

Here are the Top 10 Stories From Harrisburg last week– — Drawing New Voting Districts — WHYY: PA Lawmakers Prepare For A Month Of Intense Redistricting Negotiations — TribLive/Inquirer: Wolf Will Use Computer-Drawn Maps And Other Tools To Help Spot PA Gerrymandering — PA Cap-Star: Advocates Want More Diverse General Assembly; But Making That A […]

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association is excited to introduce the Robert V. Boltz Scholarship Foundation! This newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation was created to offer tuition assistance for individuals who will be enrolling into the PPATEC 10-week HVAC & Energy Professional Program. PPATEC plans to begin offering this gateway training program in July 2022 to encourage […]

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced updated guidance for COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program applicants to better serve small business owners in need, while funding remains available. The COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and EIDL Advance programs still have billions of dollars available to help small businesses hard hit by […]

The 2022 edition of the National Conference on Weights and Measures’ Handbook 130 will include new requirements for inactive or obsolete engine oil service categories. The two key changes are as follows: The SAE J300 cautionary statement for obsolete American Petroleum Institute (API) service categories must appear on the front or forward-facing container label. It […]

The White House said on Tuesday it would release millions of barrels of crude oil available from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) to help reduce rising oil prices. The national average for a gallon of gas is $3.41, which is $1.29 more than it was a year ago. Under the plan, the United States […]

On Friday, November 19, the House passed the Build Back Better Act – President Biden’s $1.75 trillion climate change, healthcare, and education package – by a vote of 220-213. The bill now moves to the Senate, which has an uncertain timetable. First, the Senate Parliamentarian will take meetings with Republican and Democratic Senators to review […]

Here are the Top 10 Stories From Harrisburg last week– — Flurry Of Constitutional Amendments — ABC27: Naked Power Grab?  PA Republican-Controlled Legislature Increasingly Pushing Constitutional Amendments To Get Their Way — PA Cap-Star Guest Essay: PA Republicans Attack On Executive Power Is An Undemocratic Attack On Our System Of Democracy – By Patrick Beaty […]

On November 16, the Environmental Quality Board voted to approve the final regulations making changes to Stage I and II volatile organic compound emission controls on underground gasoline storage tanks. The EQB voted 17-2 to approve the regulation. The representatives of the Republican Chairs of the Senate and House opposed the approval-later citing concerns regarding […]

The Montreal Gazette reported last week a regulation was adopted by the Provincial Government of Quebec banned heating oil systems in all new construction as of December 31 and the installation or replacement of a heating oil system will be banned as of December 31, 2023.  Quebec believes the measures it announced on Wednesday will […]

Last week the last three states in the Regional Transportation & Climate Initiative– Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island–  announced they were dropping out, leaving only the District of Columbia.             In December 2020, Pennsylvania decided not to sign on to the TCI initiative.  Read more here.             The TCI was intended to reduce the climate […]

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) announced the release of nearly $3.37 billion of Federal Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 regular block grant funding to Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) recipients.             Pennsylvania’s share is $182.8 million. States may use LIHEAP funds to help low-income households pay for heating and cooling […]

Friday morning, the U.S. House approved the $1.75 trillion Build Back Better Act (BBB), the second piece of President Biden’s legislative agenda that focuses on climate change, health care, education, and tax reform. Click Here to read an updated summary of provisions with changes from the original proposal highlighted. The House had planned to vote […]

Last Wednesday, President Biden asked the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate prices at the pump, suggesting illegal conduct by the oil industry is the cause of the recent price spike. To support his claim of “anti-consumer behavior by oil-and-gas companies,” the president said in his letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan that, “Usually, prices […]

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced last week it is suspending enforcement of its controversial COVID-19 vaccine mandate for private businesses. OSHA made the announcement after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit upheld an injunction preventing the rule from taking effect. In a written opinion, the […]

The IRS released guidance last week clarifying when amounts excluded from gross income in connection with forgiven Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans are considered received or accrued for tax purposes and how partnerships should allocate such amounts– — Rev. Proc. 2021-48 said amounts excluded from gross income in connection with forgiven PPP loans can be […]

Here are the Top 10 Stories From Harrisburg last week– — AP: State Lawmakers, Officials, Judges Get Big Automatic Pay Raises In 2022 Inflation is driving up consumer prices and will drive a big salary increase for Pennsylvania state lawmakers, judges and top executive branch officials in 2022. For many of these positions, it’s the […]

PPA is excited to announce the release of the 2022 PPATEC training schedule! The 2022 schedule currently features 75+ classes. Additional classes will be added in the upcoming months. Please visit the PPATEC website to view the schedule. TAP HERE for all articles in November 15 EXPRESS Update

Earlier this year Senate Bill 275 was introduced by Senator Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming) to prohibit municipalities from adopting ordinances that would restrict specific energy sources within their jurisdictions. The PPA initially consulted with Senator Yaw’s staff to confirm that the bill covers heating oil and propane. The PPA then submitted written testimony in May to […]

Gov. Tom Wolf shared an overview of enhancements Pennsylvania anticipates receiving through the passage of President Joe Biden’s bold, historic $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. “This comprehensive package will provide critical federal funding to Pennsylvania’s infrastructure, support economic growth throughout the Commonwealth, and provide stable, good-paying jobs for Pennsylvanians,” said Gov. Wolf. “Restoring […]

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the November 6 PA Bulletin it is suspending the enforcement of the California Heavy-Duty Diesel Emissions Control Program in Pennsylvania through July 31, 2023. The suspension means the federal standards for heavy-duty diesel vehicles and engines will apply in Pennsylvania. According to the PA Motor Truck Association, […]

On November 8, the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee voted along party-lines– Republicans supporting– to report out Senate Concurrent Resolution #1 disapproving of the final regulation limiting carbon emissions from power plants consistent with the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.             The resolution now goes to the full House for consideration and then, if passed, […]

The Department of Environmental Protection will be accepting applications for Clean Diesel Grants under the Driving PA Forward Program until January 7, 2022.  (formal notice) The Department is seeking applications for projects that will replace or retrofit diesel-powered highway and nonroad fleet vehicles, engines and equipment. The majority of the vehicle or engine’s annual operation […]

On November 5, the House passed the $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), by a vote of 228-208, sending the bill to the President’s desk. Meanwhile, Congressional Democrats and President Biden continue to navigate an uncertain future for the partisan Build Back Better (BBB) reconciliation bill. Thirteen Republicans voted […]

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit has granted a stay of OSHA’s Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS), which was announced last Thursday, temporarily halting the requirement that employers with 100 or more employees implement policies mandating that workers be vaccinated against the coronavirus or provide documentation of a negative COVID-19 test at least […]

At least seven states with State Plans are considering whether to challenge the Biden Administration’s ETS in court, despite the Biden Administration warning that State Plans that fail to comply could be revoked. This includes Alaska, Arizona, Indiana, Kentucky, South Carolina, Utah, and Wyoming. Separately, numerous Republican state Attorneys General have filed lawsuits against the […]

Here are the Top 10 Stories From Harrisburg last week– — General Assembly Wants To Expand Powers Over Executive — House Speaker Cutler: People Have A Right To Restore Balance In Constitution — Spotlight PA: Republican House Speaker Wants To Greatly Expand Lawmakers’ Power Over Governor, Executive Branch — City & State: Republicans Unveil New […]

Late on November 5, the U.S. House voted to approve the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill, sending it to President Biden for his approval.             Pennsylvania’s Congressional Delegation voted along party lines on the legislation– Republicans opposing, except for Republican Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick who voted in favor of the bill.             Among other provisions, the […]

PPA would like to highlight the following new members joining the Association in September.             Active Members Active Members are independent branded and non-branded petroleum marketers who sell gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and other petroleum products at both the wholesale and retail levels, including convenience stores.             None added in October             Associate […]

The Environmental Quality Board is scheduled to meet on November 16 to take action on the final regulations making changes to Stage I and II volatile organic compound emission controls on underground gasoline storage tanks.             The regulation allows owners and operators of gasoline dispensing facilities (GDFs) to remove or decommission all Stage II vapor […]

Earlier this year, the PPA established the Robert V. Boltz Scholarship Foundation. The newly created 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation was created to offer tuition assistance for individuals who will be enrolling into the PPATEC 10-week HVAC & Energy Professional Program. PPATEC plans to begin offering this gateway program in July 2022 to encourage more individuals to […]

Thursday, OSHA released a final emergency temporary standard (ETS) that mandates employers with 100 or more employees to require workers to be vaccinated for COVID-19 or produce evidence of a negative covid-19 test once per week. Employers are not responsible for the cost of vaccines or testing. Employers are required to provide up to 4 […]

The Energy Marketers of America (EMA) is inviting PPA members to this Small Business Legislative Counsel (SBLC) webinar Wednesday, November 10 starting at Noon EST. In this webinar, SBLC Strategic Policy Director and Paley Rothman employment law attorney Jessica Summers will discuss the new OSHA emergency rule requiring employers with 100 or more employees to […]

Last week, EMA joined other associations in a letter urging Congress to oppose tax hikes on “Main Street businesses” that are in the Biden Administration’s  Build Back Better Framework. The BBB would expand the 3.8 percent Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) to all pass-through business income; impose a new surtax of up to 8 percent […]

Last week, Republican Senators Dan Sullivan (AK), Kevin Cramer (ND), and Cynthia Lummis (WY) — all representing major oil producing states released the “American Energy, Jobs, and Climate” plan, which aims to cut global emissions up to 40 percent from today’s levels by 2050.             Click Here for the full announcement. TAP HERE for all […]

The PPA Political Action Committee would like to recognize the following POMPAC contributions in October:             POMPAC Monthly Supporters             Scott Walton (Platinum), Quincy Longacre (Gold), Steve Oehlert (Gold), Ted Harris (Sliver), & Mark Smith (Bronze)             PPA Fall Energy Conference & Golf Outing             The PPA would like to recognize and thank all of […]

EMA joined 100 other associations in a letter to President Biden on Supply Chain Solutions this week. The 5 solutions include support for the Drive Safe Act to allow younger, qualified drivers – between the ages of 18 and 20 – who satisfy rigorous safety, training, and technology requirements to operate in interstate commerce. We […]