March 18, 2022: Gas Utility Worker Appreciation Day

WHEREAS, natural gas workers construct, operate, and maintain a network of gas infrastructure assets that provide communities across the state with warm homes, businesses, and cleaner electricity; and,

WHEREAS, it is important for Michigan to honor and recognize these workers for their efforts in keeping homes and businesses warm while also ensuring the delivery of the fuel for manufacturing processes and electricity production; and,

WHEREAS, at a moment’s notice, these brave crews work in all weather systems and face dangerous conditions in order to maintain the energy infrastructure of our state; and,

WHEREAS, these crews have tirelessly worked on the front line during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring our communities have the safe and reliable energy they rely on; and,

WHEREAS, working in and around roadways is often required by employees who provide gas service which presents a daily danger; and,

WHEREAS, safety is a vital aspect to natural gas transmission and distribution and the employees of such companies endeavor to make natural gas delivery as safe as possible; and,

WHEREAS, March 18, 1937, is the date of the New London, Texas school explosion that led to the widespread odorization of natural gas and an increased emphasis on natural gas safety; and,

WHEREAS, this day is a national day of recognition known as the National Natural Gas Workers’ Day and is a way of building awareness about the hard work done by employees of natural gas utilities;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 18, 2022, as Gas Utility Worker Appreciation Day in Michigan.