AUGUSTA – With temperatures falling to below zero around much of Maine, Gov. John Baldacci has moved to allow heating oil truck drivers to work longer shifts to assure a flow of fuel to homes.

By declaring “a state of civil emergency,” the governor was able to legally waive U.S. Department of Transportation rules that limit truck drivers to 11 hours behind the wheel on a given day, or 60 hours per week.

Baldacci signed a procedural proclamation declaring the civil emergency on Wednesday. It takes effect immediately.