Executive order signed to relax restrictions for farmers on dyed diesel

An executive order declaring a state of emergency will relax restrictions on dyed diesel, which is designed to help Kentucky farmers.

The order was called for last week by Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell. The eased restrictions will allow farmers to use the farm-specific fuel on the roads for the transport of crops and livestock to market. Shell told West Kentucky Star that the rising cost of diesel fuel is costing farmers an additional $50 to $90 an hour during the crucial harvest season, eating into any profits from a good growing season.

After several days, Governor Andy Beshear made the declaration and signed the Executive Order. The order was approved and signed off on by Attorney General Russell Coleman on Wednesday night, meaning the order takes effect on Thursday.

Commissioner Shell issued a statement that said, “This is welcome news for Kentucky farmers. Thank you to President Trump, Attorney General Coleman, and the Governor for moving this forward."

President Donald Trump signed a similar order for relaxation of restrictions at the federal level on Monday.

Photo courtesy of the Official Facebook page of the Agriculture Commissioner's Office