2005-48
NEWS RELEASE:   December 20, 2005
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FROM:   The Kansas Highway Patrol
CONTACT:   LT John Eichkorn 785-296-6800

PMCA Saves Taxpayers Money

Kansas Members Donate Gas to Patrol

The Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association (PMCA) of Kansas is fueling the holiday spirit by continuing its annual support of the Holiday Highway Safety Program. The PMCA is donating gasoline to the Kansas Highway Patrol to fill up patrol cars December 23 through January 1. Now in its 15 th year, this partnership between the PMCA of Kansas and the Kansas Highway Patrol is an example of private and public entities working together to ensure the safety of motorists in Kansas.

"The PMCA has shared its holiday spirit with the Patrol again this year. The gasoline contributed by the PMCA will be a tremendous benefit to our troopers patrolling Kansas highways during this busy time of year," said Patrol Superintendent Colonel William Seck. "I am very grateful for the PMCA's generous gift, which not only supports the Patrol but also saves the taxpayers money."

During the 14 th annual program, volunteering members of the PMCA of Kansas gave 103 coupons for free tanks of fuel. The donation provided more than 1,500 gallons of gas. At approximately $1.63 per gallon (last year's cost), their contributions may have added up to as much as $2,445 in savings to the State of Kansas. By assisting the Patrol, the PMCA of Kansas is providing travelers with services at a lesser expense to Kansas taxpayers. For instance, during the Christmas and New Year's holiday reporting periods alone, officers in the Patrol made 107 impaired driving arrests, issued 680 occupant protection citations and warnings, and assisted 2,255 motorists.

The PMCA of Kansas is a nonprofit organization for independent petroleum distributors, gasoline retailers and convenience store owners.