Walker declares energy emergency because of propane problem

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Gov. Scott Walker has declared a precautionary energy emergency because of service interruptions on a key propane pipeline.

Intermittent interruptions are affecting the Mid-America East Blue Pipeline at the Janesville terminal. Walker says in a statement that early indications are the supply problem will be short-lived.

The pipeline serves four states, including terminals and storage facilities in Janesville; Dubuque, Iowa, and Rockford, Illinois. The governor's office says the Janesville and Dubuque terminals are crucial in supplying southern Wisconsin, but they also supply other areas of Wisconsin.

The main effect of the order is relaxing rules on hours for motor carriers and truckers who transport propane in case they need to travel to other terminals.

The State Energy Office will monitor supplies for the 250,000 customers who use propane in Wisconsin.