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Gov. Pillen Issues Executive Orders to help the Agriculture Community
LINCOLN, NE – To combat rising diesel fuel shortages and high operating costs during harvest season, Governor Jim Pillen has issued two executive orders providing immediate, temporary relief to Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and agricultural transporters across the state.
Under the first executive order, highway-registered vehicles are permitted to hold, sell, or use untaxed, dyed diesel fuel without facing state fines or penalties. Additionally, diesel taxes paid while transporting Nebraska seasonally produced products and livestock on state roads are eligible for a refund by filing Form 84AG with the Nebraska Department of Revenue. This order takes effect immediately and will remain active for 90 days.
To address transportation pressures facing producers, Gov. Pillen signed a second executive order providing weight limit relief for seasonal crop transport. Vehicles transporting seasonally produced products and livestock now operate up to 25% over legal gross and axle group weight limits without purchasing additional permits or paying associated fees.
In addition to state-level action, Gov. Pillen sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump requesting federal intervention through a temporary 90-day pause on U.S. diesel exports to foreign countries. Halting exports would allow domestic diesel reserves to rebuild, lowering costs for consumers and helping producers navigate harvest season without severe financial strain.
“Our farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our state,” said Gov. Pillen. “It’s critical that I do everything in my power to make sure they are supported, especially during this season where they are working day in and day out to get the crops out of the ground.”
