The proclamation also raises the allowable weight limits for fuel, agricultural and timber loads across the state. It suspends Texas Low Emission Diesel rules to the extent the Environmental Protection Agency authorizes.
Abbott tied the move directly to fuel prices. "Texas agriculture and freight run on diesel," he said. "Record prices put both industries at risk and raise costs for every Texas family."
For farmers and truckers, this means lower fuel costs at a moment when diesel prices are already squeezing margins. Heavier loads mean fewer trips hauling crops, timber and fuel, cutting transportation costs for operations that depend on diesel to keep running. Abbott framed the changes as relief that reaches beyond the farm gate. He said the steps cut costs on the road and, by extension, at the grocery store.
Dyed diesel normally carries tax and usage restrictions meant to separate off-road fuel from what regular vehicles burn on public highways. A governor waiving that distinction statewide, even temporarily, shows how far Texas is willing to bend its own fuel rules when diesel prices spike.