WASHINGTON (WMAL) – Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam signed an executive order on Tuesday declaring a state of emergency for the Commonwealth.
The order is meant to address gasoline supply disruptions throughout the state after the Colonial Pipeline system was hit by a ransomware cyberattack on Friday.
The Colonial Pipeline system is a major fuel source for many retailers in the Commonwealth.
According to a press release from Northam, the executive order allows state agencies to issue their own fuel transportation waivers as required.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has also issued a temporary fuel transportation waiver to increase the supply of gasoline.
“This emergency declaration will help the Commonwealth prepare for any potential supply shortages and ensure Virginia motorists have access to fuel as we respond to this evolving situation,” Governor Northam said in a release.
The release also mentions that Northam’s order will provide increased flexibility and funding for state and local governments to ensure adequate fuel supply.
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