Propane shortage becomes an emergency

As brutal cold continues to blast much of the nation, a propane shortage is driving up heating bills, prompting accusations of price gouging and leading to energy emergencies in more than a dozen states.
"They're worried they might not be able to keep those chickens warm," said Jeff Helms of the Alabama Farmers Federation.
And consumers are grousing about higher prices.
"It looks like there's some price gouging going on," said Phillip Wallace, director of schools in Stewart County, Tenn., which were closed Thursday and Friday because they were short on propane for heating classrooms. The district was due to receive 2,000 gallons. But Wallace complained the propane cost $3.45 a gallon, up from $1.29.
[link to www.mcall.com]

Propane shortage reaches emergency levels
With frigid temperatures expected to continue, suppliers are rationing propane and officials are urging consumers to conserve it. Some accuse suppliers of price gouging.
WASHINGTON — As brutally cold temperatures continue to blast much of the nation, a propane shortage is driving up heating bills, prompting accusations of price gouging and leading to energy emergencies in more than a dozen states, from Alabama to Michigan.
The lack of propane has forced the closing of schools in Tennessee, led to calls for people to turn down their thermostats and given poultry farmers the shivers.
[link to www.latimes.com]