A waiver of a federal safety law will allow drivers of heating fuel delivery trucks in Maine to work more than 60 hours behind the wheel each week, Gov. Paul LePage’s office said Tuesday.

The governor extended for two weeks a waiver of the federal rule, because of recent snow and ice storms that battered parts of the state before Christmas. More snow and a deep cold snap are expected to roll through the state later this week and last for several days.

“The declaration allows heating fuel to be delivered to Maine families when they need it most,” LePage said in a statement Tuesday. “Keeping homes warm is critical to protect the public health and safety of Mainers.”

LePage first declared the limited emergency Dec 13. Tuesday’s two-week extension will end Jan. 18.

Throughout the state, some residents have had to reschedule home heating oil deliveries because truck drivers could not safely reach their homes, either because of insufficiently cleared roads, or icy conditions along driveways and access roads.

 

Staff Writer Matt Byrne may be reached at 791-6303, or mbyrne@pressherald.com.


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