(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Dannel P. Malloy signed an executive order on Thursday that will increase the availability and accessibility of propane to households throughout the state. The executive order temporarily suspends a state regulation that prohibits the refueling of a propane tank by anyone other than the company that owns the tank. Connecticut residents seeking to have their tanks refilled by a propane distributor can now have their tanks filled by a distributor other than its owner, effective immediately.  Most propane tanks are leased from the distributor.

“While we recover from the impact of this rare autumn snowstorm, it is pressing that we ensure people have the ability to heat their homes safely,” Governor Malloy said.  “Temporarily suspending this state regulation will allow residents who need their tanks refilled to do so more easily.”

Governor Malloy thanked State Senator Kevin Witkos (R-Canton), who suggested the idea for the emergency order after hearing from constituents in his district who were having these difficulties.

In addition, the Governor on Thursday also signed another executive order that extends to November 15 the deadlines by which the applications for certain property tax exemptions and open space classifications must be filed.

The state of emergency declaration Governor Malloy signed Saturday in response to the storm provides him with certain emergency powers he may utilize in response, including the suspension or modification of certain state statutes and regulations.

The orders are the 15th and 16th Governor Malloy has signed during his term.

**Attached: Executive Order No. 15
**Attached: Executive Order No. 16

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For Immediate Release: November 3, 2011

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