Press Release

PUC Extends Fuel Surcharge for the Passenger Motor Carrier Industry

Published on 6/18/2009

Filed under: Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG –   Due to the ongoing instability of gasoline prices, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved an extension to the statewide fuel surcharge for the passenger motor carrier industry.  The surcharge has been extended to June 30, 2010.

Taxicabs, paratransit carriers and airport transfer carriers are authorized to continue the surcharges currently in effect.  Carriers can refer to the PUC’s website to determine the amount to collect for the fuel surcharge.  On the third Friday of each month, the Commission will post the statewide average price of unleaded regular gasoline on the PUC’s fuel surcharge website.

In order to create flexibility for both carriers and the Commission, the Commission also posts the Passenger Carrier Fuel Surcharge Chart, which lists the cost of fuel per gallon, with corresponding surcharge rates for taxis, paratransit carriers and airport transfer carriers.  Carriers are able to go to the PUC’s webpage to check on the current statewide average for a gallon of gas.  By using the chart, the carriers will then know the amount of the fuel surcharge that they are authorized to collect from customers.  All motor carriers are required to notify the public of the current fuel surcharge by placing a notice in all vehicles stating the current charge.

Passenger carriers in Pennsylvania have the option of assessing the surcharge.  The surcharge does not apply to taxicabs in Philadelphia, since they are not under the PUC’s jurisdiction.  Carriers and customers with questions regarding the fuel surcharge may contact the PUC’s Motor Carrier Division at (717) 783-5933. 

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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                    Docket No. R-2009- 2108518

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722