Governor Phil Murphy today declared that New Jersey will enter a State of Emergency effective at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, December 12, 2025 due to anticipated impacts on the delivery of propane for home and commercial heating purposes caused by a service disruption at a major propane distribution plant in Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania. Executive Order No. 40X allows for a statewide exemption on hours-of-service regulations concerning the transportation of residential heating fuel.

“As temperatures continue to drop, ensuring that every person has access to a safe, warm environment is essential,” said Governor Murphy. “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.”

Under a federal waiver available during a declared State of Emergency, the maximum driving time for operators of commercial motor carriers transporting propane is extended from 11 hours to 14 hours, with 10 consecutive hours of off-duty time required between driving time.

Executive Order No. 40x will remain in effect until it is determined that an emergency no longer exists.

The Governor encourages New Jerseyans who may be impacted to visit ready.nj.gov for important updates and safety information and NJ211 for information on resources and warming centers.

Residents using generators to warm their homes should follow generator safety tips.

For a copy of Executive Order No. 408, please click here.