AUSTIN, TX — Gov. Greg Abbott issued a statewide disaster proclamation Monday that allows expanded use of dyed diesel on Texas roads and increases allowable weights for certain fuel, agricultural, and timber loads amid high diesel prices.
The proclamation also suspends Texas Low Emission Diesel rules to the extent authorized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Abbott separately asked EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin for a temporary waiver of federal ultra-low sulfur diesel requirements.
“Texas agriculture and freight run on diesel,” Abbott said. “Record prices put both industries at risk and raise costs for every Texas family. Farmers and truckers can now use dyed diesel on Texas roads, and fuel, crop, and timber loads can move at a higher weight. These steps cut costs on the farm, on the road, and at the store.”
Dyed diesel is off-road fuel marked red that is commonly used in agricultural operations and sold without a motor-fuels tax. Because the fuel is untaxed, Texas law ordinarily prohibits its use on public roads.
Abbott's proclamation suspends state restrictions and associated penalties to allow operators to use dyed diesel on Texas roads. The proclamation does not waive the underlying fuel tax.
The proclamation also suspends state oversize and overweight permitting requirements for vehicles carrying fuel, agricultural or timber products. Those vehicles will be allowed to operate at gross weights of up to 95,000 pounds.
Abbott also asked the EPA to temporarily waive federal ultra-low sulfur diesel requirements and Texas Low Emission Diesel rules that apply in 110 Texas counties.
According to the governor's office, the standards limit which types of diesel can be sold in Texas. The requested waiver would allow additional fuel supplies to reach the state's market.
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