South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden Eases Harvest Hauling Rules to Help Farmers Offset High Diesel Prices

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - Gov. Larry Rhoden has signed Executive Order 2026‑11, granting temporary flexibility to South Dakota farmers as they navigate unusually high diesel prices during the fall harvest. The order, issued Monday, aims to reduce transportation costs and streamline hauling as producers work to move crops and livestock to market.

“Diesel prices are far too high, and that has an impact on our farmers, especially during harvest,” Rhoden said in the announcement. “These actions should provide them some relief while they get their crop to market to feed us all.”

Key Provisions in Executive Order 2026‑11

The order authorizes several temporary measures designed to ease transportation burdens:

·         Allows farmers to haul agricultural commodities at 10% above standard weight restrictions, reducing the number of trips needed during harvest.

·         Suspends the state’s $25 overweight trip permit, eliminating a fee typically required for heavier loads.

·         Directs the Department of Revenue to monitor fuel supplies and determine whether a tax refund to suppliers is warranted if dyed diesel becomes unavailable and farmers are forced to use regular diesel.

The order maintains all bridge weight limits and the 20,000‑pound per‑axle maximum.

Federal regulators previously issued a 90‑day hours‑of‑service waiver for fuel haulers, providing flexibility in the supply chain. Because of that federal action, no additional state-level hours‑of‑service changes were needed.

Further Action Under Review

Rhoden also said his administration is evaluating potential federal action by the Trump Administration and steps taken by other states to determine whether South Dakota can pursue additional measures.

“All options are on the table,” Rhoden said. “We’re taking a serious look at what Washington is doing, as well as other states. I’m a constitutional conservative, and I act within my authority – so we want to make sure we’re on firm footing before taking further action.”

The governor’s office did not specify a timeline for any additional decisions.