By Scout Nelson
Governor Jim Pillen has issued two executive orders to provide temporary relief to Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and agricultural transporters during the harvest season. The orders address rising diesel fuel shortages, high operating costs, and transportation challenges affecting the agriculture community across the state.
The first executive order focuses on diesel fuel. Under the order, highway-registered vehicles are permitted to hold, sell, or use untaxed, dyed diesel fuel without facing state fines or penalties. The measure provides temporary flexibility for agricultural operations that are dealing with fuel supply and cost concerns during a busy time of year.
The order also allows certain diesel taxes paid while transporting Nebraska seasonally produced products and livestock on state roads to be eligible for a refund. Farmers and other eligible users can file Form 84AG with the Nebraska Department of Revenue. The department lists Form 84AG as the Nebraska Ag Use Motor Fuels Tax Refund Claim.
The first order takes effect immediately and remains active for 90 days. This temporary period is intended to provide additional support while farmers and agricultural businesses continue their harvest work.
The second executive order addresses transportation needs. Gov. Pillen signed the order to provide weight limit relief for vehicles transporting seasonal crops, agricultural products, and livestock. Under the order, eligible vehicles now operate up to 25% over legal gross and axle group weight limits without purchasing additional permits or paying related fees.
Weight limits are important during harvest because farmers often need to move large amounts of crops and livestock between farms, storage facilities, processing locations, and markets. The temporary relief helps reduce some transportation barriers while producers are working to move seasonal products.
In addition to the two state orders, Gov. Pillen sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump requesting federal action on diesel supplies. He requested a temporary 90-day pause on U.S. diesel exports to foreign countries. The request is aimed at allowing domestic diesel reserves to rebuild and helping reduce pressure on fuel supplies and costs.
For Nebraska farmers, fuel and transportation costs can have a direct effect on harvest expenses. Diesel is widely used to operate farm machinery and transport crops, livestock, feed, and other supplies. Temporary changes to fuel rules and transportation limits can therefore provide additional flexibility during the harvest period.
The latest orders are limited in duration and are designed as temporary measures. Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural transporters still need to follow the conditions and requirements that apply under the executive orders and state regulations.
Photo Credit: Jim Pillen
Categories: Nebraska, Energy, Government & Policy, Harvesting