Missouri Governor signs emergency order to aid farmers

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has signed Executive Order 26-19, declaring a state of emergency to provide relief for agricultural producers facing rising operating costs. The order temporarily eases fuel restrictions and adjusts vehicle weight limits to assist with the current harvest season.

Under the order, farmers and haulers using commercial vehicles licensed for farm use are permitted to use red-dyed diesel on state highways during qualifying agricultural operations. While dyed diesel is typically reserved for off-road use to avoid motor fuel taxes, this temporary suspension allows producers to manage rising diesel expenses. The order also increases the allowable weight for agricultural transportation from 88,000 to 90,000 pounds, subject to bridge restrictions and specific routes, to increase capacity and reduce the number of trips required.

The Missouri Corn Growers Association expressed support for the measure, noting that higher fuel and input costs have made the harvest season particularly difficult. The relief is effective immediately and is set to expire on October 30, 2026, unless extended. The executive order addresses state-level enforcement and does not waive federal restrictions on dyed diesel.