Illinois Governor issues disaster proclamation to ease diesel costs for farmers

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has issued a state disaster proclamation and an executive order to provide relief for the agricultural industry facing high diesel fuel costs and shortages.

Under the executive order, the Illinois Department of Revenue and the Illinois State Police will not impose state penalties for using dyed diesel fuel on highways and state roads for farming purposes through December 31, 2026. While chemically identical to regular diesel, dyed diesel is typically reserved for non-highway use; this measure allows farmers to use existing stocks in vehicles transporting crops.

The Illinois Department of Transportation has also been directed to consider extending the Illinois Harvest Permit program into 2027 if costs and shortages persist. The disaster proclamation enables state agencies to coordinate resources and implement additional measures to address the crisis. State Representative Katie Stuart noted that diesel prices in certain areas have risen from an average of $3.75 to over $6.60 per gallon within a year.