Texas Eases Diesel and Truck Weight Rules as Fuel Prices Soar

Texas is taking emergency action to bring relief to truckers, farmers and other diesel-dependent businesses as fuel prices remain near record levels.

Governor Greg Abbott issued a statewide disaster proclamation allowing expanded use of dyed diesel on Texas roads. The state is also temporarily removing certain oversize and overweight permit requirements for fuel, agricultural and timber loads, allowing qualifying trucks to operate at up to 95,000 pounds.

Texas is also seeking federal approval to temporarily relax ultra-low sulfur diesel requirements, which could allow additional fuel supplies to reach the state.

The underlying fuel tax has not been eliminated. The measures are temporary emergency actions aimed at increasing fuel availability and reducing transportation costs.