The order also raises weight limits on fuel, agriculture, and timber loads, and suspends Texas Low Emission Diesel rules. Dyed diesel is sold without state motor-fuels taxes and has been limited to off-road equipment like farming and construction machinery. Abbott's proclamation now lets truckers and farmers use it on Texas highways.
"Farmers and truckers can now use dyed diesel on Texas roads, and fuel, crop, and timber loads can move at a higher weight," Abbott said in a statement. "These steps cut costs on the farm, on the road, and at the store."
Truckers hauling freight and farmers moving crops or timber get a cheaper fuel option and can legally carry heavier loads. The governor's office frames the move as relief that reaches grocery store shelves and other costs tied to transportation.
Dyed diesel gets its red color from a dye added to mark it as tax-exempt and off-limits for regular road use, a rule Texas has now set aside, at least temporarily, as rising fuel prices push the state to bend its own regulations.