Measure would eliminate trucking propane distinction without difference

Young adult drivers wouldn’t be prohibited from transporting propane because of how it is packaged, under a bill approved by the House Transportation Finance and Policy Committee Thursday.

Under current law, 18- to 21-year-olds with a hazardous materials endorsement may transport up to 3,500 gallons of propane if it is one large tanker but not if it is divided into dozens of smaller 40-pound cylinders used by many households when barbequing.

Transporting propane in bulk and non-bulk packaging seems to be a distinction without a difference, according to supporters of HF2364, sponsored by Rep. Brad Tabke (DFL-Shakopee).

The bill would explicitly authorize properly licensed drivers 18 and older to transport petroleum products in trucks with an aggregate capacity of less than 3,500 gallons. The bill, as amended, was sent to the House Labor and Industry Finance and Policy Committee. 

Rep. Bjorn Olson (R-Fairmont), who carries a commercial driving license, sees no safety issues with the proposed legislation, adding it would help open employment opportunities to recent high school graduates. 

“If you’re a commercial truck driver of any sort, you have a good paying job that has excellent benefits and a way to provide for your family and provide for your future,” he said.