MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – This week’s winter storm is having an effect beyond just Northeast Wisconsin. Gov. Tony Evers signed an executive order Wednesday declaring an energy emergency from the storm.
The system is bringing snow, sleet and freezing rain throughout Wisconsin. These conditions could lead to power outages and have already impacted travel.
The declaration is intended to make it easier for utility workers to restore power to impacted areas.
It waives federal and state requirements to give additional flexibility to the workers and allow for out-of-state utility workers to come to Wisconsin to help restore power.
“During and after a winter storm, restoration of power is critically important to the safety and well-being of folks across our state,” said Evers. “This executive order will allow for a more swift and efficient restoration of any electric power outages throughout the state.”
Evers’ executive order waives hours of service, certain driver qualifications and International Fuel Tax Agreements and International Registration Plan requirements for utility workers.
