Landgraf proposes fuel fleet grant program

State Rep. Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) last week proposed the formation of a grant program to encourage Texas state agencies,
municipalities and counties to operate more of their fleets with Texas fuel vehicles.

Under the program, local governments with fleets of more than 15 vehicles would be eligible for grants that could be used to purchase vehicles and construct fueling stations across the state. Fuels in the program include natural gas, liquefied natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas.

"This innovative grant program uses leftover funds appropriated from the last legislative session for the purpose of incentivizing state and local branches of government to purchase vehicles that utilize the abundant Texas fuels that are produced right here in Texas," Landgraf said.

If the legislation passes, funds for the grant program would be available from the state comptroller beginning Sept. 1.

"This is an exciting opportunity for our entire state," Landgraf said. "Texas has long been a shining example of self-reliance and ingenuity. Texas fuels are in abundance and utilizing these domestically produced fuel sources for fleet vehicles will be a step forward in the right direction, while simultaneously reducing long-term costs."