Connecticut Governor Rell Directs State Agencies to Reduce Gasoline Consumption, Mileage

April 29, 2008 -- Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell today directed all Executive Branch agencies to immediately begin cutting back on the use of state-owned vehicles, saying the staggering increases in the price of gasoline that are forcing Connecticut families to cut back on their driving are having the same impact on state government.

Toyota Camry mileage: Photo by Ted Kau (CC)

“Across our state, Connecticut families are making difficult daily decisions because of the endless upward spiral of energy prices, especially the cost of gasoline,” Governor Rell said. “These price increases are forcing families and business owners to combine everyday errands for maximum economy and eliminate all but the most essential trips. We should ask no less of state agencies.”

The Governor’s directive sets a goal of reducing total agency mileage and accompanying gasoline consumption by 10 percent by June 30, 2008. The Governor set a goal of reducing mileage and consumption by 25 percent by June 30, 2009.

“State government has more than 4,000 vehicles, and while we have added hundreds of hybrids and alternative-fuel vehicles to the fleet in recent years, we still go through a lot of gasoline,” Governor Rell said. “We do save a little by buying in bulk – but we are certainly not immune to the enormous price increases that all Connecticut motorists are seeing. A gallon of regular unleaded gasoline retails for an average of $3.79 today. A month ago that same gallon cost $3.35, and a year ago it cost $3.06. These kinds of price hikes are devastating to residents, businesses and governments alike.

“Simply put, state government must conserve – and it has to begin immediately,” the Governor said. “There are obvious reasons why we need our agency staff to be mobile – social workers, health inspectors and others need to be out in the field to do their jobs properly. We also count on the State Police to patrol our highways and Department of Transportation snowplows and road crews to keep them in good shape. However, just as Connecticut families are discovering, there are ways to combine trips – and even to eliminate some altogether – to reduce consumption and save some money.”

Governor Rell directed the Department of Administrative Services to work with all Executive Branch agencies to put her directive into effect. DAS will be working with commissioners and agency transportation administrators to review vehicle needs, usage and reimbursement policies.

Source: Connecticut Governor

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