The Missouri Propane Education and Research Council (MOPERC) has approved a draft budget for the organization's fiscal year which begins July 1. The proposed budget is subject to public and industry comment for 30 days.
The Missouri Division of Energy also provides oversight during the budget process. MOPERC does not receive any state or federal funding. It is a nonprofit organization authorized by the legislature (RSMo 414.500) to promote the safe use of odorized propane within the state. Missouri ranks in the nation's top 10 states for propane use. Approximately 9% of Missouri's families use propane for home heating, hot water, cooking and recreation. Propane is also widely used in agriculture, industrial, transportation and commercial applications.
The Council is authorized to collect assessments of up to one-half-cent per gallon of odorized propane sold in the state. Since 2000, MOPERC has provided more than $9 million in appliance rebates to increase the efficiency and safety of home appliances and installations. The Council has pledged up to $1 million over 10 years to help Missouri schools replace diesel bus fleets with cleaner propane vehicles. Today, there are more than 700 propane school buses operating in Missouri, reducing emissions and lowering operating expenses for several districts.
The proposed fiscal year 2025-26 spending plan totals $1.45 million and is based on a half-cent per gallon assessment for 237 million gallons of propane estimated to be sold during the fiscal year. In addition to the state-assessment funding, the Council will receive funding from its national counterpart and from interest income. Among the programs proposed for the fiscal year are:
- $286,250 for programs under the Research, Technology and Motor Fuel committee. These include rebates for commercial lawn equipment, fleet vehicles and autogas dispensing.
- $505,000 Market Development programs which include advertising and marketing, residential outreach and appliance rebates.
- $192,250 for statewide Safety Education and Training programs.
- $475,600 in administrative costs.
Propane marketers and the public may make comments or suggestions concerning the budget or MOPERC priorities by submitting them in writing to: MOPERC, 4110 Country Club Drive, Jefferson City MO 65109; by fax to (573) 893-2623; or to Luke@MissouriPropane.com.
Comments must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 18. The Council will review all comments received and vote on a final budget on a date to be set later.
