Arkansas and Texas declare emergencies over diesel fuel costs

Governors in Arkansas and Texas have taken emergency actions to address rising diesel fuel costs and shortages affecting the agricultural and transportation sectors.

In Arkansas, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed an executive order declaring a statewide emergency to allow farmers and timber operators to use dyed diesel in certain vehicles on public highways. The order, effective from September 30th through October 30th, suspends state taxes and penalties typically associated with using off-road dyed diesel on highways. This measure aims to support the fall harvest for crops such as soybeans, rice, and corn, as current diesel prices have significantly exceeded agricultural budget projections.

In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of emergency due to a diesel fuel shortage, citing imminent threats to public health, safety, and the ranching and agriculture industries. The emergency declaration allows the state to waive certain regulatory measures, including restrictions on the use of dyed diesel, commercial shipping weight limits, and certain diesel emission standards, to mitigate rising supply chain expenses and operational costs for truckers and construction companies.