By Julie Tomascik
Editor

Texas farmers and ranchers can temporarily use dyed diesel on public roads under a statewide disaster proclamation issued Sept. 28 by Gov. Greg Abbott.

The proclamation suspends state restrictions and penalties that typically prohibit the use of dyed diesel on Texas roads.

“Texas farmers and ranchers appreciate any effort to help relieve the high cost of fuel being used to produce food, fiber and fuel,” Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening said.

Dyed diesel is used in agricultural operations and other off-road equipment. Unlike diesel used for highway travel, dyed diesel can be purchased without the state and federal highway fuel tax for qualifying off-road uses.

The proclamation suspends those restrictions and associated penalties but does not waive the underlying fuel tax.

“Farmers and ranchers can now use dyed diesel on Texas roads, and fuel, crop and timber loads can now move at a higher weight,” Boening said.

The changes come as diesel prices have climbed sharply and added to already high production expenses for Texas agriculture.

“Texas agriculture and freight run on diesel,” Abbott said. “Record prices put both industries at risk and raise costs for every Texas family. These steps cut costs on the farm, on the road and at the store.”

The proclamation also suspends state oversize and overweight permitting requirements for vehicles carrying fuel, agricultural or timber products. Those loads can operate at a gross weight of up to 95,000 pounds.

Abbott also asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to temporarily waive federal ultra-low sulfur diesel requirements and Texas Low Emission Diesel rules that apply in 110 Texas counties. The request would allow additional types of diesel fuel to be sold in Texas.

“Texas Farm Bureau appreciates Governor Abbott addressing these needs via a statewide disaster declaration,” Boening said. “Texas farmers and ranchers are struggling with very high costs of production, and Governor Abbott’s efforts will help reduce those costs.”