Wisconsin Senate to Vote on Propane Loan Program

MADISON, Wis. AP - The Wisconsin Senate is ready to put the finishing touches on a bill that would create a new loan program to offset high propane prices.

The measure calls for the state to guarantee up to $2,500 in loans to purchase propane or other heating supplies and pay down interest.

The borrower's household income couldn't exceed 200 percent of their county median household income, however.

The Assembly overwhelmingly approved the bill last month.

The Senate is set to take it up Tuesday.

Approval would send the bill on to Gov. Scott Walker for his signature.

Wisconsin and other Midwestern states have been grappling with a propane shortage spurred by the cold winter, a temporary pipeline closure and heavy propane demand for drying grain last fall.