| May 14, 2008 Conserving fuel may put public at risk
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(NECN: Brian Burnell, Hartford, Conn.) - With gas prices steadily rising, the state of Connecticut is doing all it can do conserve fuel. The head of the State Police Troopers Union says part of that effort may put the public at risk.
The idea seems simple and sensible -- all state agencies must cut their fuel consumption. But, when you are talking about public safety, it becomes a bit more complicated.
The governor has instructed all state agencies to reduce fuel consumption 10% by July 1 and 25% in the 12 months after that. To reach that goal, the commissioner of the Dept. of Public Safety, has issued a directive to all state troopers.
"They can fill up their cars at the end of their shift before they go off duty for three days. We simply ask that they try and make that tank make it through the three days that they're off and refill when they come back."
However, the head of the State Troopers Union says you have to remember troopers are never entirely off duty. A trooper is expected to respond to any situation he or she might encounter.
State police barracks all have gas pumps where troopers fill up. Troopers are also issued credit cards they can use for gas but only in emergencies. If an off duty trooper's cruiser runs low and he or she needs to use the card at the local gas station it costs the state more because the gas in these pumps is bought at wholesale prices and doesn't include state taxes...so it's substantially cheaper.
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