Michigan House to Debate Propane Accident Liability

The Michigan House is expected to take up legislation this week that would limit liability for companies in propane fires and explosions.

The bill would free propane companies from liability for injury or damage to property that occurs when a person tampers with or attempts to repair equipment. Republican Rep. Roger Victory of Hudsonville introduced the bill in January.

Victory says the legislation will keep down costs for propane users. He says costs have increased because of lawsuits, even when the company isn’t at fault.

Propane is often used in the rural communities for heating instead of natural gas. Propane is also used for agricultural purposes, like drying grain.

A similar bill passed the House last year but died in the Senate.