Senators from both parties ask Trump to release emergency heating oil as prices surge

• Republican Senator Susan Collins and Independent Senator Angus King jointly requested the release, with Collins facing a tight reelection race where energy costs are a 'huge issue'
• The Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve holds 1 million barrels across four sites (roughly 10 days of supply for the region) and has not been tapped since Hurricane Sandy in 2012
• Diesel prices exceeding $6.50 per gallon have also prompted calls for export bans, though the White House denied reports it is preparing a 90-day diesel export ban

Summary: Bipartisan Senators Urge Trump to Tap Emergency Heating Oil Reserve

Key Development: Maine Senators Susan Collins (R) and Angus King (I) have formally requested President Trump release heating oil from the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve as diesel prices hit record highs above $6.50 per gallon.

Critical Figures:

• Maine households face approximately $675 more per heating oil tank fill compared to last year
• The reserve contains 1 million barrels of diesel stored across four sites from Maine to New Jersey
• Current supply represents roughly 10 days of heating oil for the region

Market Context: Diesel and heating oil prices have surged to record levels due to supply disruptions from ongoing conflicts in Iran and Ukraine, which have constrained fuel production and petroleum shipments.

Political Dimensions: Senator Collins, facing a competitive midterm election race in November, emphasized energy costs as a "huge issue" in Maine, the state most dependent on home heating oil. Collins and Rhode Island Democrat Jack Reed also requested accelerated release of low-income heating assistance program funds.

Reserve Background: Established in 2000 by President Clinton, the reserve has been tapped only once since creation—in 2012 following Hurricane Sandy for emergency responders. Trump's previous budget proposed eliminating the reserve due to high maintenance costs.

Export Ban Speculation: While soaring diesel prices have prompted calls for export restrictions, the White House denied Wednesday reports suggesting preparation of a 90-day diesel export ban.

Implications: A reserve release could provide temporary regional price relief, though the limited 10-day supply suggests modest overall market impact. Political pressure may intensify as winter heating season approaches.