A power outage at a Pennsylvania refinery on Nov. 21, 2025 has left New Jersey scrambling to secure propane for homes and businesses, prompting Governor Phil Murphy to declare a State of Emergency.
Background of the Outage
The outage occurred at a gas refinery and industrial complex in Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania. The disruption halted the routine flow of propane to motor carriers that transport the fuel throughout the region. Because the refinery is now only open on an intermittent basis, wait times at propane truck terminals at the facility have increased.
Impact on New Jersey
The delay has also raised traffic and wait times at major propane distribution facilities in nearby states, including New Jersey. As a result, many residents who rely on propane for home heating are facing shortages.
Governor Murphy’s Emergency Order
On Thursday, Governor Murphy announced the State of Emergency, which took effect at 9 a.m. on Friday. In his statement, Murphy said:
> “As temperatures continue to drop, ensuring that every person has access to a safe, warm environment is essential,” he said. “I am declaring a State of Emergency to ensure that the approximately 186,000 New Jerseyans who rely on propane for home heating purposes can receive it without interruption. This Executive Order expands delivery capabilities to keep homes heated and families secure.”
The order grants an exemption on hours‑of‑service regulations for the transportation of residential fuel.
Federal Waiver Details
Under the federal waiver available during the State of Emergency, commercial motor carriers are allowed to drive up to 14 hours instead of the usual 11 hours. Drivers must still have 10 consecutive hours of off‑duty time between driving periods.
Duration of the Order
Murphy’s office stated that the order will remain in place until the emergency situation no longer exists.
Key Takeaways
- A power outage at a Pennsylvania refinery disrupted propane supply to the region.
- New Jersey’s Governor declared a State of Emergency to protect residents’ heating needs.
- The emergency order extends truck drivers’ maximum driving time to 14 hours with required off‑duty periods.
The State of Emergency underscores the importance of maintaining essential fuel supplies during extreme weather conditions and highlights the state’s commitment to keeping New Jersey residents warm and safe.
