Missouri Farmers Get Harvest Relief on Fuel and Hauling

By Blake Jackson

The Missouri Corn Growers Association is welcoming action by Gov. Mike Kehoe aimed at helping Missouri farmers manage higher fuel and transportation expenses during the 2026 harvest season.

Kehoe signed Executive Order 26-19, declaring a State of Emergency and temporarily permitting farmers and haulers operating commercial vehicles licensed for farm use to use red-dyed diesel for agricultural purposes on Missouri state highways.

The order also raises the commercial vehicle weight limit for agricultural transportation from 88,000 pounds to 90,000 pounds.

“Missouri farmers are working hard to get this year’s crop out of the field, but higher fuel costs are making an already tough year even tougher,” said Missouri Corn CEO Bradley Schad.

“We appreciate Gov. Kehoe recognizing the challenges farmers are facing and taking steps to provide additional flexibility during harvest,” Schad added.

Red-dyed diesel is generally designated for off-road agricultural use. Under the executive order, the temporary measure takes effect October 1, 2026, and remains in place through October 30, 2026, unless extended.

The provision gives eligible farmers and haulers another option for managing fuel costs and availability while transporting agricultural products during harvest.

The increased weight allowance could also help producers move larger grain loads while reducing the number of trips needed. Eligible harvest vehicles may operate at weights of up to 90,000 pounds, provided they meet the order’s requirements and comply with applicable route and bridge restrictions.

“Missouri farmers are doing everything they can to make this harvest work,” Schad said. “We appreciate the governor’s continued partnership in looking at all options to help keep the combines rolling.”

The order applies to Missouri enforcement and does not override federal restrictions concerning dyed diesel. It also does not permit its use on interstate highways or U.S. highways when federal law prohibits it.

Farmers should review the complete executive order for eligibility rules, dates, route limitations and other requirements before using dyed diesel on state highways.

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