NY, CA, IL Push Identical Bills to Triple Propane Tank Setbacks Near Schools

Three states are pushing 25ft to 75ft setbacks near schools. No data supports it. 2,400+ accounts and $180M-$240M in revenue are at risk. The NPGA is leading the opposition.

The Situation

Lawmakers in New York, California, and Illinois have introduced nearly identical bills that would triple propane tank setbacks near schools from 25 to 75 feet. The identical language suggests a coordinated national campaign — despite zero incident data supporting the change.

The Facts

Coordinated Legislative Attack

New York’s S.4891, California’s AB-2217, and Illinois’ HB-3304 use nearly identical language. This is a clear sign of model legislation, likely originating from an environmental group like Clean Air Future. All three bills would mandate 75-foot setbacks for propane tanks located within 500 feet of schools or daycare facilities.

The Data Speaks: Zero Incidents

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) and National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) incident database reveals a critical fact: zero school-proximity propane incidents have occurred in the last 20 years under the current 25-foot NFPA 58 standard. Committee hearings are set for New York on May 14, Illinois on May 28, and California on June 2. Approximately 2,400 commercial accounts — including restaurants, laundromats, churches, and retail shops — currently operate in the 25-75 foot zone, often sharing blocks with schools.

Business Impact

The NPGA estimates a staggering $180 million to $240 million in annual revenue is at risk across these three states. For individual propane marketers operating in downtown or suburban territories, losing 15-30 commercial accounts could mean a revenue hit of $45,000 to $240,000 per company. The current bill language offers no transition period. If even one state passes this legislation, expect 5-10 copycat bills to emerge nationwide within a year.

Key Data Points

Bills: NY S.4891, CA AB-2217, IL HB-3304
Proposed Setback: 25ft → 75ft
Safety Record: Zero incidents in 20 years
2,400+ commercial accounts at risk
Revenue Impact: $180M-$240M/year

Key Takeaways

Identical bill language signals a coordinated national campaign — this threat will spread.
Zero incidents in 20 years is the industry’s strongest and most undeniable argument.
If one state passes this, expect 5-10 copycat bills across the country within 12 months.
Legislative testimony and direct contact with representatives are the most impactful actions right now.

Action Steps

Immediately map which of your commercial accounts fall within the 25-75 foot zone near schools.
Contact your state propane association today to join the coordinated opposition efforts.
Prepare customer impact statements detailing how these changes would affect their businesses and your ability to serve them.
Call your state representatives directly. Personal stories from constituents are often the most effective way to win votes.

Competitive Advantage

Propane companies that actively engage in this legislative fight will build invaluable community trust and government relationships. This engagement pays dividends long after this specific bill is resolved. When you tell a customer you fought to preserve their service, that creates loyalty no discount can buy.