MEMBERS ONLY NEWS

March 30, 2026

In Brief

Welcome to this week’s Members-Only Monday Morning Messenger from the Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA).

In our first story of the morning, we cover a recent court decision that could have lasting implications for energy choice and new construction across the country.

We also take a look at a potential federal rule change that could impact how commercial drivers operate at railroad crossings—and what it means for your day-to-day operations.

And don’t miss a final reminder on an important opportunity to weigh in on Texas propane education and marketing programs before the deadline passes.

Finally, learn more about how competitive scholarships are available for TPGA member employees’ children and grandchildren in Texas who are pursuing a higher education.

And in Quick Links, find direct access to this week’s propane price update and the Propane Service Corporation (PSC) compliance store.

Federal Court Blocks Energy Code Mandate, Protecting
Propane in New Construction

The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) reported that a recent federal court ruling is a major win for housing affordability and for keeping propane available in new construction. On March 5, 2026, a U.S. District Judge struck down a 2024 HUD decision that would have required stricter energy‑efficiency codes—specifically the 2021 IECC and ASHRAE 90.1‑2019—for certain federally financed single‑family and multifamily homes.

The court ruled that federal agencies exceeded their authority and that the mandate would add an estimated $10,000–$20,000 to the cost of each home, conflicting with federal affordability goals.

Supported by the National Association of Home Builders and 15 states, including Texas, the decision blocks enforcement of codes that favor electric‑centric designs and could have limited propane use in rural and affordable new construction.

NPGA says it will continue advocating for energy choice and policies that keep housing costs manageable.

Image by Franco Solari from Pixabay.

FMCSA Considers Easing Stop Requirements at Railroad Crossings

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) currently requires certain commercial motor vehicles—specifically those transporting passengers or placarded hazardous materials—to come to a complete stop at railroad grade crossings unless a limited exception applies, such as a functioning traffic signal indicating it is safe to proceed.

FMCSA is now considering a regulatory change that would expand those exceptions. Under the proposal, drivers would not be required to stop at crossings equipped with active warning devices (such as lights or gates) when those systems are present but not activated. The agency has indicated this could reduce unnecessary stops and improve operational efficiency for commercial carriers.

At this stage, the existing stop requirements remain in effect. Industry members should continue to follow current federal regulations for railroad grade crossings while monitoring FMCSA’s consideration of potential changes that could impact future operations.

TPGA will keep members posted if the consideration gets adopted.

Tomorrow is the Last Day to Weigh in on
Texas Education & Marketing Programs

Do you receive the Propane Safety Tip
& Recipe Calendars?
Do you participate in the Duty to Warn Safety Mailing Program?

Are there education & marketing resources you would like to see more of?

Then we need to hear from you! Tomorrow is the last day to respond!

The Propane Council of Texas is encouraging propane providers across the state to help shape program decisions for key marketing, safety, training, and workforce programs.

Your feedback will help us decide which projects and programs should continue, be improved, or adapted in the coming year.

Help ensure your favorite ProCOT programs return for 2026.

The survey only takes a few minutes to complete — please click the link below to make your voice heard

The feedback extended deadline is Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

Complete Feedback Form

Don't Miss Out on Funds for Kids & Grandkids Higher Education

The Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA) Scholarship Program is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 academic year. This program supports Texas students connected to the propane industry as they pursue higher education.

Who Is Eligible?

· Texas resident

· High school senior or undergraduate student

· Enrolled full-time for 2026–2027 at an accredited college, university, or vocational/technical school

· Employee, child, or grandchild of an employee of a current TPGA member company (2026 dues paid)

· A family member’s role must be directly tied to the Texas propane industry

· GPA (needs to be in the upper half of the class for consideration)

Application Deadline

Closes: May 15, 2026 (11:59 PM CST)

What to Know

· One-time award (past recipients are not eligible)

· Reviewed by an independent third-party higher education organization

Recipients will be notified in Summer 2026. Award checks are sent directly to the student’s institution and may be applied to Fall 2026 or split between Fall 2026 and Spring 2027.

For details and to apply, visit: www.txpropane.com/scholarship

Questions? (800) 325-7427 | tpgascholarship@txpropane.com