[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today renewed temporary relief for motor carriers and drivers transporting gasoline, diesel, and other fuels in Minnesota. By suspending regulations and allowing for efficient movement of fuels, the executive action will ease supply bottlenecks and make fuel more accessible and affordable across the state. Since Governor Walz initially provided this relief in July, gas prices have fallen in Minnesota, but supply continues to be constrained. The extended relief is authorized via Emergency Executive Order 22-18.

“As families see the price of gas fall from their record highs, we continue to do what we can to drive prices down and make fuel as affordable and accessible as possible,” said Governor Walz. “As drivers and suppliers struggle to keep up with demand, this action will provide relief from regulations and allow fuel to be efficiently transported across our state.”

Data from the Minnesota Department of Commerce continue to show that inventories of certain fuels in Minnesota are at lower levels than last year and the three-year average. Fuel terminals across the state, including those in Sauk Centre, Alexandria, Wrenshall, and Roseville are reporting shortages or outages of products, and drivers have experienced long wait times due to increased demand at terminals that do have available supply.

This Executive Order relieves motor carriers and drivers of certain hours of service regulations that would prevent or hinder the efficient transportation of essential supplies.

Executive Order 22-18 is effective immediately and expires on September 11, 2022.