3 Biggest Legal Risks for Propane Marketers

Propane marketers face legal risks, as highlighted in a recent LP Gas magazine article. In the article, they discuss three primary areas of concern, along with additional potential liabilities that TPGA summarizes below:

Mistakes handling customer calls: Especially for out-of-gas and gas-odor calls.

• Importance of proper training for Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) on how to handle these calls and follow established procedures.
• Documentation of calls is crucial.

Faulty out-of-gas procedures: Not following proper safety measures can lead to accidents and lawsuits.

• Leak checks are essential after every out-of-gas delivery or service interruption.
• Gauges can be inaccurate, so the best practice is to check appliances inside the building physically.
• Be extra cautious when new customers switch from another propane provider.

Incomplete documentation: Thorough records protect the marketer in case of legal disputes.

• CSRs need to document the details of every customer call.
• Service technicians must fill out paperwork accurately and completely, including details about the work performed and observations made at the customer's location.
• Take photos of appliances, red tags, safety measures taken, etc.

The article also mentions additional risks to consider:

• Inadequate Carbon Monoxide training for customers.
• Outdated procedures for servicing regulators.
• Ignoring safety codes and manufacturer recommendations.
• Improper handling of propane cylinders.
• Insufficient training for new employees.

The Texas Emergency Preparation Supplies Tax Holiday, scheduled for April 27-29, 2024, offers a sales tax exemption on qualifying emergency preparation supplies. Designed to incentivize Texas residents to ready themselves for natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes, the exemption enables individuals to stock up on essential supplies like portable generators without paying sales tax.

During the tax holiday, both you and your customers can purchase specified emergency preparation supplies without incurring sales tax. There's no limit on the number of qualifying items you can buy, and no exemption certificate is necessary to claim the tax exemption.

This year, the holiday commences at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, and concludes at midnight on Monday, April 29.

Some of the emergency preparation supplies that qualify for tax exemption, if purchased, include:

·       Less than $3000

·       Portable generators.

·       Less than $300

·       Emergency ladders.

·       Hurricane shutters.

·       Less than $75

·       Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits.

·       Carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors.

·       Fire extinguishers.

·       First aid kits

·       Gasoline or diesel fuel container

·       Light sources - portable self-powered like lanterns, flashlights, etc.

Purchase Guidelines: Qualifying items can be bought in-store, online, by telephone, etc., during the holiday period.

Did you know that student employees can apply for the TPGA Scholarship? It's not limited to the children and grandchildren of employees. The Scholarship Foundation offers funding for outstanding students pursuing degrees from two-year colleges, four-year universities, or technical/trade schools.

Encourage your Texas student employees to apply for the TPGA Scholarship before the deadline.

Every year, from March 15th to May 15th, the TPGA Scholarship Foundation accepts applications from high school seniors and college undergraduates for our competitive scholarship program.

Spread the word about this opportunity among your student employees. Click here to print the flyer to share with them.

Questions? Call (800)325-7427 ext 2 or email tpgascholarship@txpropane.com.

Propane Price Updates are returning monthly for the non-heating season. The next issue will be on April 17, 2024

TPGA members receive Member Only discounts at

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