TPGA has received several reports from members in South Texas that the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) is ramping up inspections in the area, specifically focusing on cylinder sales.
The Texas Department of Agriculture recently informed a South Texas propane industry member that this is due to a blanket complaint regarding propane cylinder sale practices.
Just as the Railroad Commission of Texas adopts the NFPA standards, the Texas Department of Agriculture adopts NIST standards, specifically NIST Handbook 130, “Uniform Regulation for the Method of Sale of Commodities.”
How LPG Must Be Sold per NIST Handbooks:
By Volume (Gallon or Cubic Meter)
By Weight (Pounds or Kilograms)
By Package
LPG may also be sold by package, referring to situations where the product is pre-packaged in a sealed container or cylinder of a known quantity. For example, if a customer purchases a "pre-filled" propane cylinder, it could be sold as a "package" unit with the amount of fuel specified on the package (as in the case of propane sold in cylinder exchanges).
The TDA informed several companies that they could add a service fee to recoup labor and operating expenses in filling cylinders. For example, they could post a sign that says the service fee to fill the bottle is $XYZ.
TPGA is currently engaging with the Texas Department of Agriculture on this matter to reach a common ground that will allow our members to continue selling by the cylinder.
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