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.